ND Oilers Back new Waste Disposal Rules

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's oil industry is backing new rules aimed at cracking down on the illegal dumping of oilfield waste.

Regulators say beginning June 1, companies must have covered, leak-proof containers at well sites for used filter socks. Disposal containers must be collected by a licensed waste hauler and disposed of at an authorized facility out of state.

Filter socks are tubular nets that strain liquids during the oil production process and often contain naturally occurring radioactive material.

North Dakota has faced increased problems with illegal oil waste dumping in recent years as it has risen to become the nation's No. 2 oil producer, behind Texas.

North Dakota Petroleum Council vice president Kari Cutting says the industry supports the new rules and wants to "see an end to illegal dumping."