Activists and Researchers are Working to Keep Tabs on Oil and Gas Emissions Near Balmorhea

Sharon Wilson on the side of a Reeves County road.

Diana Nguyen / Marfa Public Radio

Funky smelling fumes, dimmer skies, and increased health concerns have all been reported by residents in the Southwest corner of the Permian Basin as the oil and gas industry expands. Growth has been happening north of the Davis Mountains over the last two years.  

Concerns about greenhouse gasses and toxic emissions have spurred some citizens —like Sharon Wilson— to try to keep oil companies accountable themselves, one rig at a time.

During a recent drive along roads in Reeves County near Balmorhea, Wilson is hunting for oil and gas emissions.

Read more and listen to the story on Marfa Public Radio’s website >>