Fire at North Dakota saltwater disposal well spills brine

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A fire at a saltwater disposal well in McKenzie County caused brine to spill, according to the North Dakota Oil and Gas Division.

The fire was reported Wednesday at the J.W. Fisketjon 1 saltwater disposal well about four miles northwest of Watford City. BNN North Dakota, LLC reported that an estimated 23,100 gallons of brine were released because of the fire.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. The brine was contained on site.

A state inspector has been to the location and will monitor response and cleanup. Brine is a byproduct of oil production.