Flint River oil spill under investigation, possible source identified

Flint, MI— The Flint Sewer Department was notified of an oil spill into the Flint River from an identified source at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

The Michigan Department of Environmental, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) are working with the city to investigate the possible source of the spill.

According to a city press release, the spill occurred at the Whaley Park and Dort Highway outfalls on the east side of the river. 

The Genesee County Health Department recommends no contact with the Flint River, including fishing and recreational activities, from Dort Hwy to Riverbank Park at this time.

The city responded immediately, and Michigan Spill placed booms in three places along the river. The absorbent barriers are collecting the spilled oil. 

The volume of the spill is unknown. The city is currently collecting samples of the contaminant for testing.