Greater LA
Why abandoned oil platforms dot CA’s coast, and living near oil wells means health problems
The recent oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach has raised questions about the state of offshore oil in California, like how many structures are there and who owns them.
By Steve Chiotakis • • 25m ListenThe recent oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach has raised questions about the state of offshore oil in California, like how many structures are there and who owns them.
Plus, Angelenos share their landscape with thousands of chemical-releasing oil wells that can harm their health. Lastly, a bomb detonation killed Palestinian American activist Alex Odeh in 1985 in Santa Ana, and the case went cold, but now a local police officer who responded to the incident in the 1980s is finally speaking out.
In this episode
3 storiesCalifornia’s offshore oil heyday is over. Why do the platforms remain?
On clear days, you can see oil platforms while driving Highway 101 in Santa Barbara and Ventura, or walking the beaches near San Pedro or Long Beach.
Read the story9 min20,000 oil wells in LA County can cause health problems for nearby residents
LA was one of the biggest oil-producing regions in the world 100 years ago. Pictures from that time show forests of oil derricks dotting the landscape.
Read the story9 minThe death of a Palestinian American in Santa Ana remains unsolved for 36 years
Alex Odeh, a Palestinian American activist, opened the door to the Santa Ana office of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee on October 11, 1985. When he did, a pipe bomb detonated.
Read the story7 min
