Approval Process For Fryburg Refinery Could Be Lengthy

FRYBURG, N.D. (AP) — A state official says the permitting process for a proposed oil refinery in southwestern North Dakota will be lengthy because of the proposed plant's proximity to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Houston-based Meridian Energy Group Inc. is planning a 55,000-barrel-per-day refinery between Fryburg and Belfield. The $850 million plant would be only about 3 miles from the national park.

State Health Department environmental engineer Craig Thorstenson tells The Bismarck Tribune the plant will have to meet more stringent air quality standards because of its location.

President William Prentice says Meridian has hired a company that specializes in emission dispersion modeling. He says the refinery will be "the cleanest plant ever built."

Meridian plans to file an air quality permit application next month.