Teresa Patry, a farmer and rancher in Vermilion, Alberta, is among those feeling disregarded by the province’s oil and gas regulator. She has two active oil wells on her property that an independent air quality assessment has shown are emitting methane and potentially harmful chemicals in the direction of her residence and livestock. Patry has noticed the noxious fumes from her home and believes they are affecting her family’s well-being. However, when contacting the energy regulator, she has been repeatedly assured that everything is functioning correctly.
Numerous landowners like Patry have reported similar issues with aging or decommissioned oil wells causing environmental pollution and health concerns without receiving adequate support from the government. Despite Alberta’s efforts to address methane emissions and aging oil and gas infrastructure, advocates fear that ordinary citizens like Patry will continue to be neglected.
Initially trusting the industry, Patry’s family allowed companies to drill on their land in 2006 without much concern. Over time, the wells became problematic, changing ownership and emitting strong odors that affected Patry’s health. An assessment revealed the release of methane and volatile organic chemicals, which are associated with various health problems, including arthritis, thyroid issues, infertility, and cancer.
Patry’s worries deepened when a flock of lambs died unexpectedly near one of the wells in 2016. Subsequently, she and her family experienced health issues, with her son even suffering a blood clot in his lungs. Despite these events, the Alberta Energy Regulator maintains that the wells are compliant with regulations regarding allowable venting levels.
Independent environmental assessments by experts like Tim Doty have revealed continuous venting from the wells, urging caution for residents living nearby. Advocates, including Phillip Meintzer from the Coalition for Responsible Energy, emphasize the need for stronger regulations and enforcement to protect individuals like Patry from the harmful effects of oil and gas operations.
As Patry continues to endure the distressing fumes during warmer weather, she expresses disappointment in the lack of compassion and support from regulators who she feels have labeled her as a troublemaker for seeking assistance.