Hydraulic oil leak Into Indian Creek Reservoir causes it to close to recreational use

ALPINE COUNTY, Calif. - On Thursday, September 28, approximately fifteen
gallons of hydraulic oil leaked into Indian Creek Reservoir and the reservoir is closed for recreational use.

Indian Creek Reservoir is a freshwater reservoir in Alpine County operated by the South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD). Fresh water is released out of the reservoir through a dam into Indian Creek. The valve on the dam was tested on Wednesday, September 27 as part of an annual dam inspection. Operational issues were noted during the inspection. On the morning of Thursday, September 28, crews were working to fix the valve on the dam by adding hydraulic oil to the lines. An unknown break in the line caused approximately fifteen gallons of hydraulic oil to leak into Indian Creek Reservoir.

The appropriate regulatory agencies have been notified and STPUD is working with a contractor to clean up the oil, which is contained in Indian Creek
Reservoir. Danger signs are posted around Indian Creek Reservoir instructing users to stay out of the water until further notice.

For questions, contact STPUD at 530-544-6474.