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Planning commission approves freshwater holding pond permit for oilfield use in Cow Creek Township
Summary
The commission granted a conditional use permit for a freshwater holding pond intended to store approximately 387,666 barrels (about 49.97 acre‑feet) for oil well production. The pond will be lined and fenced; the applicant has an industrial groundwater permit.
The Williams County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit on April 15 for a freshwater holding pond to be used in oil well production in Cow Creek Township.
The application (LUDash0008Dash25) by Jaden Ewing with Magna Services, on behalf of Kevin Michge, requests a conditional use permit to construct a freshwater pond on an approximately 80-acre parcel; the active site will cover about 20 acres. County staff reported the pond will hold about 387,666 barrels (49.97 acre-feet), measure roughly 500 by 419 feet and be 15 feet deep with a maximum 3:1 slope, lined with 30-mil polypropylene and fenced.
Michelle (Williams County planning staff) said the applicant holds an industrial groundwater permit that will supply the pond and that the access will be off 140 Fifth Avenue Northwest. Jaden Ewing, who spoke for the applicant during the public hearing, confirmed the site is about 5–6 miles east of a similar prior project and told commissioners the pond will be fenced.
Commissioners asked no substantive questions beyond sizing and fencing; no public speakers opposed the permit during the hearing. Commissioner Barry made the motion to approve with staff comments; the motion was seconded and passed on roll call.
Roll-call votes were recorded as: Barry — yes; George — yes; Mark — yes; Dan — yes; Cheryl — yes; Eric — yes; Brett — yes; Tate — yes. The motion carried.
The permit includes the site specifications presented to the commission: lined pond, fenced perimeter, diesel trailer‑mounted pumps for transfer and access off 140 Fifth Avenue Northwest. The county planning office will record conditions in the staff report and track compliance through standard permitting procedures.
