URGENT UPDATE: A coalition of activists is currently protesting outside the Easton Hilton Hotel in Columbus, Ohio, where the 79th annual meeting of the Ohio Oil and Gas Association is taking place. The demonstration is led by Washington County residents and members of the Buckeye Environmental Network in response to Ohio State Senator Brian Chavez receiving the association’s Oilfield Patriot Award for his ties to the oil and gas sector.
Activists are voicing their concerns over Chavez’s connections to the controversial injection well industry. As the former CEO of DeepRock Disposal Solutions, which operates injection wells in Southeastern Ohio, Chavez is accused of using his position as chair of the Senate Energy Committee to further oil and gas interests. Protesters displayed their own award for Chavez—the “Corporate Crime Award”—to highlight their grievances.
“We deliver this award for writing laws to shield the injection well industry from liability,” said Kat Finneran, co-chair of the Buckeye Environmental Network. She emphasized the potential dangers, stating, “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.”
The protest coincides with growing calls from local governments and water boards for a moratorium on injection wells, intensifying the debate over environmental safety and public health in the region. The ongoing situation has raised alarm among communities, especially as some residents fear for their drinking water safety.
In response to the protests, John Fortney, Communications Director for the Ohio Senate Majority Caucus, dismissed the gathering as a “publicity stunt” funded by what he described as “radical organizations.” Fortney accused these groups of trying to undermine the oil and gas industry using “junk science” to instill fear in the public.
Despite multiple requests for comments from Senator Chavez, there has been no response. Fortney has repeatedly labeled those opposing injection wells as “radical” groups backed by “California special interests,” citing 2024 tax records indicating that the Buckeye Environmental Network received donations from out-of-state foundations.
In a rebuttal, organizer Bev Reed stated, “We’re Ohioans. We’re Appalachians. We’re all over the state. It’s easier to call names than it is to face the facts.” Reed emphasized the local roots of their organization, fighting to protect Ohio’s environment and public health.
This protest is part of an escalating conflict between environmental activists and the oil and gas industry, with the stakes growing higher amid ongoing debates about the safety and regulation of injection wells. As the situation unfolds, residents are urged to stay informed about developments that could impact their health and safety.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent issue as it unfolds.
