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Gasoline Leak Continues Into River In Lander

Booms located at the popo agie river to prevent further seepage downstream
Keith Guille
/
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality

Gasoline is spilling into the Popo Agie River in Lander. A citizen reported it to the National Response Center last week. The action prompted the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to investigate what happened.

Keith Guille, DEQ spokesman, said the situation is urgent, and "that's why we have staff out there to make sure that we find some conclusions here very quickly to ensure that wherever the spill leak is coming from they get stopped and that everything can move forward here."

Guille said the spill began near the Maverick Gas Station, but that it's underground storage tank technology was double layered, up to date, and did not appear to show signs of leakage. He said the two agencies continue to investigate the source of the leak.

DEQ and EPA have set up barriers, or booms, to keep the gas from flowing further downstream. Guille said additional staff has been on hand in Lander to do extra inspections. He said the community should stay away from the spill area, and that there's no risk to drinking water.

Before Wyoming, Cooper McKim has reported for NPR stations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and South Carolina. He's reported breaking news segments and features for several national NPR news programs. Cooper is the host of the limited podcast series Carbon Valley. Cooper studied Environmental Policy and Music. He's an avid jazz piano player, backpacker, and podcast listener.
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