The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is investigating an incident where more than 20 containers, 55 gallons in size, were spotted in Choctaw Creek, a tributary to Greers Ferry Lake.
A fisherman noticed the barrels Thursday evening. The Van Buren County Emergency Management Office contacted the ADEQ concerning the matter, and the ADEQ began working with county officials to initiate removal operations. As of Friday morning, all of the barrels had been removed from the creek and placed in a secure location. The containers are not leaking at this time.
Several barrels were marked as “Sta-Foam D.” Others were labeled “ANCO WT-22.” The labels indicate the contents were used as lubricants in natural gas well drilling operations. Two barrels were not marked. The ADEQ is in contact with the product manufacturer listed on the labels and is now in the process of attempting to identify the responsible party.
The ADEQ is also testing water samples taken in the creek and fluid found inside the containers. ADEQ Director Teresa Marks has ordered the agency’s laboratory to expedite the tests. As soon as those results are available, the ADEQ will share them with the Arkansas Department of Health and with the public.
