North Dakota official: Saltwater spill reached Missouri River, diluted enough to lessen harm

North Dakota's environmental chief says water testing has shown that saltwater contamination from a massive pipeline spill reached the Missouri River. But he says officials don't expect harm to wildlife or drinking water supplies.

Dave Glatt said Friday that given the size of the river and volume of water, the contaminants quickly diluted.

Many communities draw drinking water from the river.

The Sierra Club says there's no basis to question the state's contention, but the number of spills occurring is a concern.

Saltwater is a byproduct of oil and gas production. Nearly 3 million gallons leaked from a pipeline near Williston.

Glatt says Summit Midstream Partners is pumping water out of Blacktail Creek and constructing barriers to prevent water from reaching the Little Muddy River, which empties into the Missouri.