In early November 2025, a train derailment near Cherry Creek, close to Kamloops Lake, triggered a complex spill response involving multiple agencies and contractors. WCMRC was activated by Nucor Environmental Solutions with the objective of ensuring the safety of the public and responders, supporting containment of spilled product, recovery of the product from the environment, and developing a comprehensive waste management plan.
Crews mobilized quickly, deploying workboats, boom trailers, and a communications unit to the staging area. Early operations focused on reinforcing containment against strong winds and waves, which threatened to breach barriers. WCMRC proposed and implemented a multi-layer containment system lined with sorbent boom, preventing further spread of product.
As the response evolved, WCMRC expanded its role, supporting tank car lifts, deploying thousands of feet of boom, and assisting with shoreline flushing operations. Teams worked alongside Nucor Environmental Solutions and other contractors to cycle sorbents, transport equipment, and maintain containment integrity. Safety remained paramount, with daily briefings, air monitoring, and precautions for wildlife hazards such as avian influenza.
Despite challenging conditions, including rain, freezing temperatures, and eventually snow, crews adapted and maintained progress. Response operations wound down in December.