Officials Warn Of Possible Diesel Odor As Leak Hits Baltimore County Waterway

TOWSON, MD — Residents in Baltimore County may detect a diesel odor over the next few days along the Long Quarter Branch, a tributary of the Loch Raven Reservoir impacted by a leak over the weekend.

Diesel fuel momentarily leaked into the waterway late Saturday from a generator at the Baltimore County Detention Center in Towson. The fuel traveled through the storm drainage system into the tributary.

Early estimates released by officials suggested the leak amounted to approximately 5,500 gallons, although authorities say the figure could be lower.

"The amount released from the generator is different from the amount that reached the waterway or has been recovered," a statement by the Baltimore County Department of Public Works and Transportation said.

Emergency crews were continuing to work Monday on containment efforts, assessing the leak's impact on the stream and reservoir through cameras, drones and mapping systems.

While air monitoring checks conducted on Sunday and Monday flagged "no concerning conditions," the department said the diesel odor could be noticeable near the tributary.

Officials said the leak has no impact on private drinking water wells, and that residents and pets "should avoid water with a visible sheen or diesel odor."

"One well identified in the immediate area is a geothermal well and is not used for drinking water," reads the release. "Crews are continuing to assess the area."

The Lock Raven Fishing Center was closed to the public Monday as a precaution. Officials said additional assessments will be made before its scheduled reopening on Friday. The center is normally closed Tuesday through Thursday.

Baltimore County officials are working to address the issue alongside Baltimore City and the Maryland Department of the Environment, among other agencies.