Natural Gas Flares Spark North Dakota Wildfires

Reports from the North Dakota State Fire Marshal confirm that natural gas flares from oil wells operated by ConocoPhillips and Hess Corp. ignited two wildfires in October, specifically the Midnight Run Fire near Keene and the Dinwoodie Fire near New Town. The fires, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, burned approximately 9,000 acres without causing any injuries or fatalities. The investigation highlighted that the fires started just before state regulators recommended shutting down oil wells in high fire danger areas. Overall, over 190 wildfires occurred in the state in October, with additional investigations ongoing into other fires that resulted in fatalities and injuries. The damages from these wildfires are projected to be in the tens of millions, affecting infrastructure, land, and livestock. Both companies are reviewing the Fire Marshal's findings but face no immediate penalties from the state agency.