BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - State authorities say a saltwater spill northwest of Powers Lake has impacted a tributary to an area lake.
The North Dakota Department of Health says the exact size of the spill isn't known at the time. But authorities do know that the spill has impacted am unnamed tributary of Smishek lake.
Saltwater, or brine, is an unwanted byproduct of oil production and is considered an environmental hazard by the state. It is many times saltier than sea water and can easily kill vegetation exposed to it.
Oasis Petroleum reported the spill to the state and is the responsible party.
Employees from the Department of Health and North Dakota Oil and Gas Division have been on site assisting the cleanup.