Date: 10/10/2013

Final
COGCC Ground Water Rules

WATER RESOURCES REVIEW COMMITTEE

Votes: View--> Action Taken:
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01:43 PM -- COGCC Ground Water Rules

The committee returned from recess. Matt Lapore, Director, Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, discussed the commission's rule 805 b. concerning green completions and identified wells that are affected by this rule. Green completion is a practice that reduces emissions of salable gas and condensate vapors during cleanout and flowback operations prior to the well being placed on production. He also responded to questions from the committee about the effect of the green completion rule on the oil and gas industry and whether the commission expects to amend the rule.

01:53 PM

Mr. Lapore discussed the commission's groundwater sampling rules that are used to determine pre-drilling water quality and help identify potential impacts to groundwater resources related to oil and gas development (Attachment H). He also discussed other rules that protect groundwater resources including well casing and pressure treatment requirements. He identified the number of new wells that have been sampled since the rule took effect and industry's compliance with the new rule. Mr. Lapore responded to questions from the committee about issues considered during the rulemaking process for the groundwater sampling rule and discussed domestic water supplies that have been impacted by oil and gas development.

1010AttachmentH.pdf1010AttachmentH.pdf

02:20 PM

Mr. Lapore discussed impacts to oil and gas operations related to the recent floods and subsequent oil spills and releases. He explained that the commission is reviewing its current rules to determine whether amendments are needed to prevent spills and releases related to floods. He also responded to questions from the committee about current rules concerning oil and gas development in flood plains and the commission's duty to respond to flood related emergencies.