Victory for Fort Berthold: A Milestone in Environmental Justice
In a landmark decision, federal officials announced a $242 million settlement with Marathon Oil, addressing Clean Air Act violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in northwestern North Dakota. This settlement, including a historic $64.5 million fine, marks a significant victory for Fort Berthold residents and a step forward in the fight for environmental justice.
The Impact of the Settlement
The settlement, described by Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin Mizer as setting a “benchmark for the department’s enforcement efforts at oil and gas production facilities,” is the largest ever for Clean Air Act violations at stationary sources. This monumental fine and the accompanying requirements for Marathon to reduce harmful emissions from over 200 facilities across the state demonstrate a robust commitment to improving air quality and holding the oil industry accountable.
Lisa DeVille: A Champion for Clean Air
Dakota Resource Council and Fort Berthold POWER member, State Rep. Lisa Finley-DeVille, a tireless advocate for the Fort Berthold community, expressed her satisfaction with the settlement. “For the past 15 years, I have been working to hold the oil industry accountable for their bad actions on MHA Nation that resulted in polluted air, water, and land,” she stated. “It feels good to finally see a major oil industry player like Marathon being held to account.”
Lisa DeVille’s relentless efforts and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this issue to the forefront. Her advocacy has highlighted the environmental challenges faced by the Fort Berthold community and emphasized the importance of corporate accountability in protecting public health and the environment.
A Historic Agreement
The agreement between Marathon, the Justice Department, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that Marathon significantly reduce emissions, an effort estimated to cost $177 million. Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the settlement’s impact, stating, “This historic settlement will ensure cleaner air for the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation and other communities in North Dakota while holding Marathon accountable for its illegal pollution.”
The settlement addresses violations at nearly 90 Marathon facilities, resulting in the reduction of over 2.25 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the next five years, equivalent to taking 487,000 cars off the road for one year. Additionally, it will eliminate nearly 110,000 tons of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, including harmful substances like butane and methyl chloride, as well as carbon monoxide and methane, which contribute to climate change.
The Path Forward
This settlement is not just a win for Fort Berthold but a significant step in the broader fight against environmental pollution from the oil and gas industry. David Uhlmann, assistant administrator of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, highlighted the settlement’s significance, calling it “the most significant to date under EPA’s climate enforcement initiative.”
The settlement is subject to a 30-day public comment period, allowing the community and other stakeholders to voice their opinions and concerns. This transparency and public involvement are crucial steps in ensuring that the agreement meets the needs of those most affected by Marathon’s operations.
A Brighter Future
The $242 million settlement with Marathon Oil is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated advocacy and community action can have. For the residents of Fort Berthold, this settlement represents not just financial reparation but a commitment to a cleaner, healthier future. With champions like Lisa Finley-DeVille leading the way, the Fort Berthold community can look forward to continued progress in their fight for environmental justice and corporate accountability.
In conclusion, this settlement is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Fort Berthold community and its leaders. It sets a precedent for future enforcement actions and reinforces the importance of protecting our air, water, and land for generations to come.