STEPHENVILLE, N.L. — It’s not yet known what will happen to a large fuel tank on the former Ernest Harmon Air Force Base that moved from its location after heavy rainfall earlier this year.
A local man, who didn’t want to be identified, noticed the tank had moved position and reported it to the Town of Stephenville. He feared the tank might end up moving further into a small pond nearby.
The tank is located just off the road leading to Mine Pond and a short distance from Roxon Way on Route 490..
Mike Campbell, town manager, confirmed the Town of Stephenville was notified of the incident and brought it to the attention of the provincial Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment, whose officials felt it didn’t pose an environmental risk.
The tank is the responsibility of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. When contacted, the corporation said in a prepared statement it became aware of the issue in early September, after being advised by the Town of Stephenville.
The corporation said it promptly retained a consultant, Wood Environmental and Infrastructure Solutions, to conduct a preliminary assessment of the tank and the property.
The statement said the corporation initiated a further site assessment and will confirm what next steps are needed once this report is received in the coming weeks.
