Crude Oil Spill Reported Near Arnegard, North Dakota

State officials monitoring the situation as cleanup efforts continue

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Approximately 400 barrels of crude oil spilled near the town of Arnegard, North Dakota on Saturday, according to state officials. The spill occurred at the Sturgeon East Pad Site, which is operated by Devon Energy Williston. As of Monday, around 320 barrels have been recovered, and a North Dakota Oil and Gas inspector is on-site monitoring the ongoing cleanup efforts.

Why it matters

Oil spills can pose significant environmental risks, especially in rural areas, and require prompt action to contain the damage and mitigate any long-term impacts. This incident highlights the importance of robust safety protocols and emergency response plans for energy companies operating in North Dakota's oil fields.

The details

The crude oil spill happened at the Sturgeon East Pad Site, which is operated by Devon Energy Williston. State officials estimate that roughly 400 barrels of oil were spilled. As of Monday, around 320 barrels have been recovered, and a North Dakota Oil and Gas inspector is overseeing the ongoing cleanup efforts.

  • The spill occurred on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • As of Monday, February 10, 2026, around 320 barrels have been recovered.

The players

Devon Energy Williston

The oil and gas company that operates the Sturgeon East Pad Site where the spill occurred.

North Dakota Oil and Gas Division

The state agency responsible for monitoring and regulating oil and gas operations in North Dakota, including overseeing the cleanup efforts for this spill.

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What’s next

The North Dakota Oil and Gas Division will continue to monitor the cleanup efforts and ensure that Devon Energy Williston takes all necessary steps to contain the spill and mitigate any environmental damage.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of robust safety protocols and emergency response plans for energy companies operating in North Dakota's oil fields, as even small spills can pose significant environmental risks that require prompt action to address.