Taylor Creek spill almost completely cleaned up

By Kathryn Reed

Used oil is what was dumped into Taylor Creek, according to water samples taken from the South Shore tributary that leads to Lake Tahoe.

The contamination has been isolated and almost fully contained.

The booms that were put in place by Lake Valley firefighters will remain until Friday. This is in case when the U.S. Forest removes the contaminated vegetation today any oil that may be dislodged will be caught.

Booms in Taylor Creek are scheduled to be removed Sept. 23. Photo/LTN

Dave Johnston, hazmat supervisor with El Dorado County Environmental Services, told Lake Tahoe News once the booms are removed, that would be the extent of the cleanup required. His agency is the lead on the cleanup.

The Forest Service is trying to find the person or people who dumped the nearly 2 gallons of oil into the pristine water.

Cheva Heck, spokeswoman for the USFS, said no can or other container has been found that might provide clues as to who is responsible for dumping the contaminant.

The spill was first noticed Sept. 17 by a Forest Service employee who works at the Taylor Creek Visitors Center on the South Shore off Highway 89.

Officials have said the minor spill should have no impact on the kokanee salmon that this week began their migration up the creek to spawn.