Three Canadian County chemical tanks owned by Oklahoma City-based Devon Energy are at the center of a recent chemical spill, according to a KFOR news item. The leak allegedly occurred on Sunday morning when a local resident reported solvent flowing over the retaining wall and into a nearby street off Route 66 south of Calumet.
Scott Beard, a dairy farmer and town resident, discovered the leak after feeding his cattle. He indicated that the liquid wasn’t water. Beard said he’s glad none of the solvent has found its way into his creeks or wheat fields.
Although Beard isn’t opposed to oil and gas companies operating near his cattle operations, he is worried about chemicals seeping into the ground and potentially damaging his water source and land.
“I love the fact that we do have oil production in the state because a lot of our revenue for the state comes from these wells,” said Beard.
The ground was slightly muddy accompanied with a chemical stench after the chemical spill was discovered. Beard said he was advised by crew members on site that a valve fissure caused the leak.
Beard said he is taking ground samples to ensure it gets cleaned up properly.
Devon Energy has not made an official statement regarding the Calumet spill.