CP Lowers Estimate Of Oil Spill In Western Minn.

PARKERS PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- Canadian Pacific has lowered its estimate of how much crude oil spilled during a derailment in western Minnesota.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says the railroad now says less than 15,000 gallons spilled Wednesday. Initial estimates were 20,000 to 30,000 gallons.

The MPCA also says the freezing temperatures that helped contain the spill have made it difficult to take up the spilled oil. Only about 1,000 gallons had been recovered as of around midday Thursday. The rest of the oil on the ground has thickened into a heavy tar-like consistency. Collecting it is expected to take another day or two.

The 94-car train was headed south near Parkers Prairie when 14 cars derailed. Three cars either leaked or spilled oil. No one was hurt, and the line has been reopened.

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