On Jan. 2 my wife and I observed the longest train that I’ve ever seen rolling through Whitefish. It was oil car after oil car, apparently empty, heading east. I am assuming the next time they coming rolling through they will be full.

Later that day I read that federal officials are issuing warnings that crude oil shipped by rail from the Bakken fields of Montana and North Dakota “may be more flammable than traditional forms of oil.”

This follows a string of explosive accidents, including the massive explosion in Casselton, N.D. on Dec. 23 that resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of residents. In July a shipment of Bakken oil derailed in Lac Megantic, Canada, killing 47 people and destroying much of their town. In November, there was another derailment and explosion in Alabama.

Whitefish has been placed on notice by the “potential high volatility of crude being shipped” right smack through our community. The Whitefish area is no stranger to derailments, having suffered numerous derailments throughout the years. In 1989, Whitefish Lake had significant pollution from a derailment along the western shoreline involving oil cars that ruptured and spilled oil into the lake.

One of the sad lessons from the 1989 Whitefish Lake oil spill was the emergency responder’s lack of knowledge regarding local resources and equipment available to respond. In light of recent warning and corresponding tragic derailments and explosions, an “ounce of prevention” is warranted.

My question and concern is whether communities such as Whitefish receive anything more than a warning? Do we receive any assistance in planning for and responding to potential derailments and corresponding disasters that have the potential of leveling our community and destroying Whitefish Lake?

The situation gives new meaning to old Hank’s lyrics, “All I do is sit and cry, when that evenin’ train goes by, I heard that lonesome whistle blow.”

— Tom Muri