City crews and firefighters jumped into action Thursday after a mysterious oily sheen was reported in two Billings waterways: the King Avenue East drain and the Yegen Ditch near the downtown post office.

Key Takeaways

• An oily sheen was reported in the King Avenue East drain and the Yegen Ditch near the downtown post office.
• The Billings Fire Department and city crews responded and contained the sheen using oil-absorbent booms.
• Officials say the oily water did not reach the Yellowstone River or the city’s water intake.
• The likely sources include road oil washed into storm drains during wet weather and buildup released during sewer-line work.
• The exact source is still being tested, while crews continue to contain the area.

KTVQ reported that officials with the Billings Fire Department and city crews responded quickly and contained the situation using oil-absorbent booms, preventing the oily water from spreading further.

City officials say the oily sheen likely came from road oil washed into storm drains during wet weather and from buildup released while crews cleared tree roots from a sewer line. The exact source is still being tested.

Officials say there’s no danger to the public. They also say the oil never reached the Yellowstone River or the city’s water intake. Crews are continuing to contain the oily water with absorbent booms.

Photo: AI generated

What to Watch Next

• Results from ongoing testing to confirm the exact source of the oily sheen.
• Continued containment efforts as crews maintain and monitor absorbent booms.
• Any follow-up guidance from city officials if conditions change.

Related Reading

• Water news: rivers, runoff, and water-quality updates
• Environment: spills, cleanups, and local impacts
• Montana: statewide outdoor and local news
• Yellowstone River coverage: updates that affect recreation and communities
• Billings news: public safety, infrastructure, and community updates
• Stormwater and drainage: how runoff reaches waterways

FAQ: Oil Sheen in Billings Waterways

Where was the oily sheen reported?

It was reported along the King Avenue East drain and the Yegen Ditch near the downtown post office in Billings.

Who responded to the reports?

Officials with the Billings Fire Department and city crews responded.

How was the sheen contained?

Crews used oil-absorbent booms to prevent the oily water from spreading further.

What do officials think caused the oily sheen?

City officials say it likely came from road oil washed into storm drains during wet weather and from buildup released while crews cleared tree roots from a sewer line.

Has the exact source been confirmed?

No. Officials say the exact source is still being tested.

Is the public in danger?

Officials say there is no danger to the public.

Did the oil reach the Yellowstone River?

Officials say the oil never reached the Yellowstone River.

Did the oil reach Billings’ water intake?

Officials say the oil never reached the city’s water intake.