Montana Gov. Steve Bullock has declared a state of emergency after 50,400 gallons of oil spilled Saturday from a pipeline into the Yellowstone River, the longest undammed river in the United States. Residents in nearby cities have reported that tap water smells like diesel. The pipeline is owned by Bridger Pipeline Co. of Wyoming.

CNN points out that 42,000 gallons of oil spilled into the Yellowstone in 2011 because of a rupture in an Exxon Mobil pipeline.

CNN reports:

… while officials wait for results from water sample testing, they’re advising residents to use bottled water for drinking and cooking.

A host of agencies have responded to the oil spill, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services. 

Adding to the problems, the weather: the Yellowstone River is partially frozen, making it difficult to clean up the mess. 

— Posted by Donald Kaufman.

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