UPDATE: A coalition of activists has gathered outside the Easton Hilton Hotel in Columbus, Ohio, to protest State Senator Brian Chavez as he receives the Oilfield Patriot Award from the Ohio Oil and Gas Association. This protest, which occurred on August 24, 2023, highlights the growing tensions surrounding the controversial debate on injection wells in the state.
Activists, primarily from Washington County, are voicing their concerns over Chavez’s ties to the oil and gas industry, particularly his former role as CEO of DeepRock Disposal Solutions, a company responsible for drilling and operating injection wells in Southeast Ohio. Despite Chavez’s claims of having stepped back from the company, protestors argue that he continues to influence legislation that favors the oil and gas sector.
The protestors, organized by Washington County for Safe Drinking Water and the Buckeye Environmental Network, presented their own award to Chavez dubbed the “Corporate Crime Award.” This was in response to accusations that he has authored laws shielding the injection well industry from liability.
“His former company’s brine is migrating miles underground, threatening our neighbors in Noble County and the drinking water of 32,000 people in Marietta, Ohio,” stated Kat Finneran, Co-chair of the Buckeye Environmental Network. The urgency of their protest is underscored by numerous local governments and water boards now demanding a moratorium on injection wells.
In response to the protests, John Fortney, Communications Director for the Ohio Senate Majority Caucus, dismissed the activists as “radical organizations” aiming to undermine the oil and gas industry. “This is nothing other than a publicity stunt funded by radical organizations that have a mission to kill the oil and gas industry by scaring the public with junk science,” Fortney asserted.
Despite attempts to reach Senator Chavez for comment, no response was received. Fortney has previously characterized dissenting voices against injection wells as being backed by “California special interests.” However, organizer Bev Reed of the Buckeye Environmental Network refuted these claims, emphasizing, “We are an Ohio-based organization. We’re Ohioans. We’re Appalachians. We’re all over the state.”
This protest is part of a larger, escalating debate on the safety and environmental impact of injection wells, with many residents fearing for their drinking water and public health. As local communities rally for action, the situation remains tense, with calls for increased regulation of the oil and gas industry growing stronger.
What happens next? Activists vow to continue their efforts, pushing for legislative changes that prioritize public health over industry interests. The outcome of this conflict could significantly affect Ohio’s environmental policies and the wellbeing of thousands of residents.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as it develops.
