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Natural Gas Flares Ignited Two Wildfires in North Dakota, Reports State Agency

Natural Gas Flares Spark Wildfires in North Dakota

BISMARCK, N.D. — Two wildfires in North Dakota earlier this fall have been traced back to natural gas flares at oil wells, according to the North Dakota Fire Marshal’s Office. Investigators determined that a combination of flaring, high winds, and extremely dry weather led to wildfires near Keena and New Town on October 5.

Though there were no fatalities or injuries reported from these specific fires, approximately 14 square miles of land were scorched, impacting both the environment and local livestock. These incidents were part of a larger pattern of wildfires that swept through northwestern North Dakota in October, where up to 118,000 square miles were affected, resulting in two deaths and six injuries in other fires.

Flaring, the process of burning off excess natural gas that is produced alongside oil, is a necessary practice for oil and gas companies when the gas cannot be captured or transported. Venting natural gas is illegal because it poses greater pollution risks than flaring.

ConocoPhillips and Hess Corp., the companies operating the affected wells, are currently reviewing the fire investigation reports. ConocoPhillips spokesperson Lexey Long stated that the company is focused on safety and environmental protection while cooperating with state officials and local landowners. Hess spokeswoman Alison Ritter also confirmed that the company is reviewing the report but refrained from further comment.

The North Dakota Fire Marshal’s Office does not impose penalties or pursue prosecutions, leaving it uncertain whether either company will face repercussions for the incidents. As investigations continue, both companies remain committed to understanding the circumstances that led to these wildfires.

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Photo credit abcnews.go.com

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