Part of Judd Road in Monroe is expected to be closed through at least tomorrow because of a fuel oil spill that happened yesterday.  Monroe Police say a fuel truck struck a tree around 9:30am, closing Judd between Hattertown Road and the Easton town line. 

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is cleaning the spill, which happened both on the road and off into the adjacent woods.  The accident caused the trucks' 2,500 gallon oil tank to rupture.  Approximately 380 gallons was recovered from the cargo tank, meaning about 1,770 gallons made its way to the ground.  Lights and other equipment were brought in to allow work to continue overnight as crews remove contaminated soils.

DEEP officials say it doesn't appear that fuel spilled into the Pootatuck River, but crews will dig a ditch to protect the surface water from oil.  Several homes in the area rely on private wells for drinking water. If a determination is made that the release of heating oil could impact those wells, DEEP officials say water quality tests will be conducted. 

The trench has so far prevented fuel oil from reaching the river.  In addition, fuel oil is being recaptured in a recovery well that was created.

Residents and emergency vehicles will have access to the residences in the area.  The Easton Board of Education is working with the Dattco Bus Company to continue uninterrupted student pick up and drop off at stops.