Lander Petroleum Spill Contained, Source Remains Unknown
A petroleum spill in the Popo Agie River in Lander has been mostly contained, but a cause remains unknown.
The spill was first reported Tuesday night when a concerned resident smelled the odor of gasoline coming from the river. Lander police and firefighters responded. Local agencies, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are currently on the scene.
The spill occurred just south of Main Street in Lander.
EPA On-Scene Coordinator Craig Myers said crews have placed booms in the river and the spill is mostly contained. Myers said the substance is a refined petroleum product, possibly gasoline.
A nearby gas station is being investigated as a possible source, but its equipment seems to be in working order. Myers said workers are still trying to find a source for the leak.
Drinking water has not been impacted. The long term environmental impacts of the spill are also unknown at this time.
Myers called the response a prime example of local, state and federal agencies effectively working together.