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Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission Announces Approval of Noble Energy's Comprehensive Drilling Plan

Drilling Plan Ensures Compliance with Current and Future Regulations
COGCC

This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) today announced the approval of Noble Energy’s Wells Ranch Comprehensive Drilling Plan, Docket #191000612, at the March Commission Hearing.  
“I am proud of the COGCC staff that helped to provide direction on Noble’s proposed plan to ensure current and future protections to the public health, safety, welfare, wildlife and the environment, consistent with SB 19-181,” said Director Robbins. “This plan was approved because of Noble’s commitment and efforts to avoid, reduce, mitigate and minimize emissions and impacts from these oil and gas operations.” 
Some examples of the mitigations and practices Noble has committed to with the Wells Ranch include: integrated planning and development that reduces surface impacts; provide for comprehensive location siting analysis; reduce or eliminate emissions during parts of the pre-production and production phases by allowing for electrification; utilize pipelines in lieu of trucks to reduce or eliminate emissions from tanks, flare stacks and truck loading; and provide for tankless flowback through consolidation of equipment and locations. Noble’s experience with its first CDP in Weld County demonstrates Noble’s commitment and ability to meet these high standards. 
SB 19-181 ensures that oil and gas development and operations in Colorado are regulated in a manner that protects public health, safety, welfare, the environment and wildlife resources. The COGCC is in the midst of reviewing its rules and procedures to evaluate what changes are required to reflect the new law’s requirements. On Nov. 21, 2019, the Commission adopted Flowline rules. The Commission will take up additional SB 19-181 rulemakings at future Commission hearings.
To learn more about participating in any meetings, the rulemaking schedule or comment using the online portals, visit the COGCC website: cogcc.state.co.us and follow us on Twitter @ColoradoOGCC.