The Energy Resources Conservation Board is on the scene of a major pipeline leak near Sundre, that could put the drinking water in Red Deer at risk.

The ERCB says the leak of about 3.000 barrels of crude occured yesterday on Plains Midstream Canada's Rangeland pipeline.

It spilled into Jackson Creek which feeds into the Red Deer Rvier Creeks and rivers in the area are running high and fast because of recent heavy rain.

The company has shut down the pipeline, and is conducting aerial assessments and is working to minimize contamination of the Jackson Creek and the Red Deer River.

Meantime, reaction continues to pour in over the leak.  Madeline Wilson with the Alberta Wilderness Association says the frequency of leaks across the province is a telltale sign that the regulations and rules need to be better, as humans and wildlife are being affected.  But Philippe Riecher with the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association says the industry is safe and reliable, but events like this do happen with thousands of kilometres of pipeline network.

Photos courtesy: Cathy McDonald (Global/QR77 Helicopter)