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Panhandle Wildfires

Unregulated oilfield power lines are suspected of sparking Texas wildfires

No state agency is taking responsibility for making sure the privately built lines that power many oil and gas sites are safe. Such lines have been blamed for sparking two recent Panhandle fires.

Craig Cowden shows parts of his property that are negligent from oil companies using his land, Sunday, July 7, 2024, at Breezy Point Ranch in Pampa, Texas. Cowden has made numerous complaints about the live wires and trash on his property.

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Oil operators are responsible for their own lines

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Lynn Cowden, left, points to places around his family ranch property, Sunday, July 7, 2024, at Breezy Point Ranch in Pampa, Texas. During the wildfires, the Cowdens had to transport their cattle to other parts of the country.

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