News Release - March 28, 2003

NR-C&A-03-01E

Husky Oil Operations Limited Pleads Guilty to Fisheries Act Charges

Calgary, Alberta - Husky Oil Operations Limited pled guilty in provincial court to one count of violating Section 35(1) under the Fisheries Act. This section of the Act prohibits any work or undertaking that results in the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat without prior authorization from DFO. Authorities first became aware of the situation following an anonymous tip from a member of the public.

The charges stemmed from an incident near Bragg Creek, Alberta where provincial officials collaborated with DFO staff to investigate excessive amounts of sediment being deposited into an unnamed tributary feeding into Silvester Creek. The tributary is considered a particularly sensitive habitat for a genetically pure strain of cutthroat trout, one of only a few small populations remaining in Alberta.

"We are very pleased with the outcome of this case." noted DFO's district manager, Adrienne Paylor. "Our staff will continue to work closely with other federal and provincial government agencies, conservation groups, industry and the general public in order to promote education and voluntary compliance, preferring to prevent a violation before it occurs. We all have a responsibility to the environment."

Ms. Paylor added DFO is also encouraged by the level of commitment and co-operation demonstrated by Husky Oil Operations to bring this incident to a successful conclusion. The court indicated that a penalty of $150 000 was to be imposed; however the terms of the order have not been formally set. In addition, the company has already invested approximately $1 million to correct initial damage.

"There is no doubt this is a firm victory for habitat conservation." she said. "Husky Oil has accepted responsibility for this incident and has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring its operations comply with environmental legislation. DFO has also demonstrated its desire to continue the protection and conservation of fish habitat across Canada."

"DFO would also like to thank members of the public who bring their concerns to our attention, as was the case in this situation." added Ms. Paylor. "With their support, together we can successfully conserve fish habitat throughout the prairie provinces."

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For more information:
Theresa Nichols
Communications, Prairies Area
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Calgary, Alberta
(403) 292-6599