Toxic wastewater from oil fields continues to spill out of the ground across Oklahoma. They occurred near homes and schools, killing crops on farmers and calves on ranches.
These incidents, also known as “purges,” also contaminated private wells of people in rural areas.
Some Oklahoma residents have been filing complaints for years. But not always an easy solution has been found.
Ranchers in northeastern Oklahoma said they have been complaining for years about oil leaking from oil wells. The state said it plugged one well, spewing salt water and oil up to 40 feet into the air, but left the other well intact. In the southwestern part of the state, a couple noticed high levels of salt and the carcinogen benzene in their drinking water. They sued the oil company, but the case is pending.
As we continue reporting on this issue, we need your help to understand how this issue is impacting our community. Have you noticed that the purge or water supply is contaminated in your area? Have you tried to deal with them? Do you have other information you would like to share about oil and gas in Oklahoma? Please take a few minutes to fill out the form below.
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