Oklahoma Co. Hit with $3.3M Fine for Jet Fuel Spill in Texas

Oklahoma-based Explorer Pipeline Company is facing a $3.3 million fine after admitting to violating the Clean Water Act in a massive jet fuel spill near Huntsville, Texas. The incident occurred on July 14, 2007, when the company’s pipeline ruptured, spilling over 6,500 barrels of jet fuel into Turkey Creek and threatening the Trinity River.

The spill prompted immediate action from federal prosecutors and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Explorer has since replaced the ruptured pipeline, completed cleanup efforts, and is participating in a joint federal and state natural resource damage assessment.

Ronald J. Tenpas, Assistant Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the feds, emphasized the seriousness of oil spills: “Oil spills into our nation’s waters endanger public health and the environment, and warrant concerted enforcement efforts.”

The EPA’s Richard E. Greene echoed this sentiment, stating that the agency is committed to strong water protection programs through cooperation with federal and state partners.

Under the Clean Water Act, it is unlawful to discharge oil or hazardous substances into navigable waters of the U.S. The penalty will be deposited into the federal Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund for response activities and damage compensation.

The proposed consent decree is subject to a 30-day public comment period and court review before final approval. A copy can be found on the Department of Justice website at http://www.usdoj.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html.