Trucker accused of dumping saltwater

DUNN CENTER, N.D. (AP) — An Idaho truck driver is accused of illegally dumping saltwater in the North Dakota oil patch.

Saltwater is a byproduct of oil production and must be disposed of according to state rules. SBT driver George Baker Jr., of Ponderay, is accused of dumping 4,200 gallons on hay land owned by Dunn Center ranchers Shane and Sheralee Dolezal last weekend.

SBT General Manager Bobby Porterfield tells KX News “there is no excuse” for the alleged incident.

Baker faces a felony charge that could land him in prison for up to five years. Court documents don’t list an attorney, and a home telephone listing couldn’t be found. He could enter a plea July 19.

The company also could be fined.

Contaminated soil is being removed, and the state Health Department is monitoring the area.