Road safety questioned — Oil traffic, dust raise safety concerns on Cheyenne River Road
Weston County ranchers are asking county commissioners to help address growing safety concerns along Cheyenne River Road, where increased oilfield truck traffic has created heavy dust, reduced visibility and new concerns about livestock losses and deteriorating county roads.
During the July 7 Weston County Commission meeting, Bob Stoddard told the commissioners that truck traffic has increased significantly since M&K purchased Vermillion Oil Co., with crude oil now being hauled to a collection station using the county road. He said the situation has become increasingly dangerous for motorists.
“You can’t see after you meet one of them for 200 yards, and it’s going to get somebody killed,” he said, referring to the dust clouds created by passing trucks.
Stoddard explained that M&K is not the only issue and that traffic is expected to increase even more as Arena Resources expands activity in the area, sending trucks along Bruce Road to Cheyenne River Road before continuing to other oilfield locations.
Beyond safety concerns, he said, the dust has become a serious issue for area ranchers.
According to Stoddard, approximately 14,000-15,000 head of cattle graze in the surrounding country, and heavy dust has contributed to calf health problems.
“We’ve lost some calves,” he said, noting that pneumonia has become a concern as livestock are repeatedly exposed to dust.
Chairman Nathan Todd asked Stoddard if he had any influence with neighboring Niobrara County, explaining that much of the oil revenue is generated there while Weston County roads absorb the truck traffic.
“All the revenue generation has happened in Niobrara County, and they’re beating up our roads to do it, and we’re not getting the revenue,” he said.
Stoddard acknowledged the concerns and suggested several possible avenues for addressing the issue. He said he does know some ranchers and is willing to talk to them.
Commissioner Marty Ertman asked the ranchers to submit a letter and photographs documenting the dust conditions, along with the names of the companies involved, so the county attorney could assist in drafting a letter requesting relief from the operators.
She said the companies should recognize they are profiting from using county infrastructure.
“They should understand that
they are profiting from using our roads, and maybe perhaps we could get something in return,” Ertman said, suggesting the county could pursue a road-use agreement or other assistance.
Commissioners also discussed the possibility of requesting mitigation measures, including water trucks to reduce dust in areas where cattle are concentrated, while acknowledging those solutions would require cooperation from the companies.
Another option discussed was conducting a speed study that could lead to posted speed limits, although commissioners noted enforcement would require sheriff’s deputies to patrol the area.
The rancher said speed limits alone would not solve the problem.
“When you’re meeting them, you better stop,” said Tammy Harman-Stoddard, explaining that dust can become so thick that motorists cannot tell whether another truck or vehicle is approaching from behind the first one. “You’ve got to stop and wait for the dust to dissipate before you can continue on your way.”
Commissioners encouraged the ranchers to gather photos, videos and signatures from neighboring landowners to help document the extent of the problem.
“I think it’d be a good start,” Ertman said, adding that documentation would strengthen the county’s ability to approach M&K, Arena Resources and other operators about helping mitigate the impacts of their operations.
While commissioners expressed a willingness to advocate for residents, they also acknowledged the county’s limited financial ability to undertake large-scale dust mitigation projects on its own.
“I think everybody at this table would be willing to try to help you out,” Todd said. “As far as the county putting money into it, probably squeezing blood out of a turnip right now.”
Ensure These Stories Are Told
Despite the challenges facing independent local journalism, what sustains us — and fills us with deep gratitude — is the loyal support of readers who believe our communities deserve accurate, trusted, and locally rooted news.
It is no exaggeration to say that we are here because of you. Every story we report, every local issue we follow, every public meeting we cover, and every community voice we lift up is made possible by readers who understand the value of an independent newspaper.
Your support does more than fund articles. It helps protect the independence that allows us to report honestly, ask important questions, and keep our community informed without fear or favor.
If you are able, please consider supporting the News Letter Journal by donating to our Unabridged Fund today. Whether your gift helps cover reporting time, printing costs, video, photography, editing, or distribution, every contribution helps keep local journalism strong in Wyoming.
All gifts are deeply appreciated. Your support helps ensure that local stories continue to be told, local decisions continue to be watched, and local voices continue to be heard.
Thank you for standing with independent community journalism.