The Only National Parks Employee Who Tracks Leaky Oil Wells Is Out of a Job

In a move that has raised concerns about the nation's ability to monitor and address oil well leaks, Forrest Smith, the sole employee of the National Park Service responsible for tracking and managing leaky oil wells, has been let go. Smith, who served as the National Park Service's chief petroleum engineer, was forced to step down last month, and surprisingly, he was not replaced.As the only person in the National Park Service dedicated to overseeing the thousands of oil and gas wells scattered across the country's national parks, Smith's departure has left a significant gap in the agency's ability to ensure that these wells are operating safely and in compliance with regulations. The loss of Smith's expertise and experience has sparked worries among environmental advocates and lawmakers, who fear that the lack of oversight could lead to increased environmental damage and risks to public health.During his tenure, Smith played a critical role in identifying and addressing leaking oil wells, which can contaminate groundwater, soil, and air. He worked tirelessly to ensure that oil and gas operators adhered to strict safety standards and took responsibility for their operations. Without Smith's leadership, it remains unclear who will now take on these responsibilities and ensure that the nation's national parks are protected from the potential hazards posed by leaky oil wells.The National Park Service has not provided a clear explanation for Smith's departure or its plans to fill the vacant position. The agency's silence has only added to concerns about its commitment to environmental protection and public safety. As the nation continues to grapple with the challenges of managing its vast energy resources, the loss of Smith's expertise and experience has come at a critical time, leaving many to wonder who will now be watching over the nation's oil wells.