An estimated 96 litres of heating fuel spilled in Baker Lake on April 4, according to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The spill was a result of human error while a fuel delivery truck was being filled at the tank farm, the GN stated on April 15. 

The incident occurred downstream from the water treatment plant intake, according to the department. While hydrocarbon testing is part of routine water sampling, the GN committed to increased monitoring during remediation efforts. 

"The contractor responsible for the fuel spill is working under the direction of the regulator, the Department of Environment, to contain the spill and remediate the area," the territorial government stated in an April 15 news release. "The Government of Nunavut became aware of the fuel spill on April 9. PPD [the Petroleum Products Division] is providing additional oversight through the work of an environmental specialist who is being dispatched to the tank farm property."

Water sample analysis of raw and treated drinking water is completed by a qualified independent laboratory, the GN stated. The Department of Health is the territory's drinking water regulator. 

Baker Lake has been under a boil water order since Feb. 26. Residents are asked to continue to observe that order.