On Monday, June 9th, 2025, Buckeye Environmental Network visited two conventional oil and gas wells in Marietta, Ohio, after landowners raised concerns about possible toxic contamination.
Both wells, once productive, are now suspected of being repressurized by radioactive oil and gas waste. The source? Likely underground migration from nearby Class II injection wells.
Jack Chamberlain, one of the well owners, explained that his well, Kris MAR #5, has been inactive for years until, unexpectedly, it began pushing up fluid again, not from production, but from suspected radioactive waste intrusion.
“It happened that July or the month before that. I mean, I would check on them once every month just to see if they weren’t active wells, but when I was doing a routine check , I discovered them [emitting anticipated waste].” – Jack Chamberlain
Nearby, Joe Wigal described how his domestic well, Whittikind WM, which had powered his home for generations, is no longer safe. He stated:
“But, the biggest problem is this was our only sole form of gas this is heating the home and, you know, it comes down to ‘Are we going to cook things tonight?’ or ‘Are we going to take a hot shower?’ because it’s a gas hot water tank and gas stove.”
Wigal continued to describe how this is a common issue for well owners in Marietta, raising concerns around what is to come if this issue continues to go unaddressed.
“You’re hearing the same story, all from the same people, of the same exact [well and living] conditions,” Joe Wigal said. “You know, people don’t have any gas to run their homes, pumping water, free-flowing water. This stuff’s coming from somewhere, and you know, where it’s coming from, where it’s going, we don’t know. That’s why I’d like to see a lot more wells in the area tested to see where this is coming from.“
“You know, this is just not a good thing, and I think we’re leading to a future of a lot more problems…probably more serious than this if it keeps going.”
[Bold added for emphasis.]
Watch the full video below:
MARIETTA, Ohio — Video shows field testing at conventional wells suspected of toxic waste contamination in Marietta on June 9, 2025. Well owners link it to nearby Class II injection wells. (Buckeye Environmental Network via AP)
Why This Matters
This could mean:
- Contamination of household water or gas supplies
- Long-term exposure to radioactive, toxic chemicals
- Dangerous pressure build-ups underground
What’s Next?
As the issue evolves, community testing and transparency are essential. Buckeye Environmental Network is pushing for expanded well testing, statewide accountability, and stronger safeguards. Stand by for well sampling updates.
Get involved
- Follow our Instagram and Facebook for consistent updates
- Learn how to test your well
- Organize with neighbors to demand answers
This isn’t just a Marietta problem; it’s an Ohio problem. Let’s protect our homes, our health, and our future.