High fecal bacteria levels after pipeline break prompts water advisory for Sturgeon River

Officials were at the scene of flooding and a wastewater pipe break on June 1, 2026. (CTV News Edmonton)

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is asking the public to avoid all exposure to the water in St. Albert’s Sturgeon River after a broken wastewater pipe earlier this week caused high levels of fecal bacteria in the water.

The advisory was issued for the Kingswood Boat Dock, Kingswood Park Day Loop and the Kingswood Park Day Loop in St. Albert. The ban is effective immediately and in effect until further notice, officials said.

Earlier this week a regional wastewater pipeline break near the corner of Sir Winston Churchill Avenue and Kingswood Drive spilled untreated sewage and possible chemicals into the river. AHS says it is actively monitoring the contamination.

“At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of this water. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact,” a news release read.

Anyone using boats, kayaks or canoes on the river is asked to avoid contact with the water, rinse off afterwards and thoroughly wash their hands as soon as possible.

Health Link 811 is available for anyone who has concerns about contact with the water.