Enbridge digs up contaminated soil along N.W.T. pipeline

Enbridge has dug up nearly 100 cubic metres of contaminated soil at two spots along the Norman Wells pipeline.

Enbridge spokesperson Todd Nogier will not confirm if it's a spill from the pipeline until there is an investigation.

However, the contaminated soil was found when the company was inspecting two areas already identified as potential weak spots on the pipeline.

"There is a feature that we have taken a look at based on our inspection tool analysis," Nogier said. "We have contaminated soil there. But again I can't make any firm determination until we have completed our investigation."

The company temporarily shut down the pipeline to re-enforce the two sections, which are located about 60 and 120 kilometres west of Fort Simpson, N.W.T.

Nogier said there was no free flowing oil in the area and they believe they've dug up all the contaminated soil.