Firm Wins OK From Terrebonne Judge For Oilfield Waste Injection Well

HOUMA, La. (AP) — A Terrebonne Parish judge says that the parish can't put more restrictions on oilfield waste injection wells than allowed by the state.

The ruling means that Vanguard Environmental can go ahead with a plan to drill a well near houses and businesses in Houma, The Courier reports.

Terrebonne Parish had prohibited such wells within a mile of houses, schools and business, but state law only provides 500 feet of protection. Vanguard had won a state permit to drill the well.

District Judge George Larke ruled that further parish restrictions are unconstitutional.

Terrebonne Parish President Michel Claudet says parish government plans to appeal.