The Oil and Gas Program implemented a new database system June 2017, a project that has taken nearly four years to complete. The database replaced an outdated system with newer technology and functions.
Data management is a critical element to the success of the program as it helps track all well data, production, injection, inspection, and compliance information. Over 16,000 wells and facilities statewide create a tremendous amount of data accessed daily by entities including federal, state and county governments. In addition, this data is critical to operators who use the records for exploration research and by the general public who may want information on wells and activities in their area.
Staff has also worked to update current policies and procedures and drafted the Division Standard Operating Procedures, which includes documents guiding staff through a multitude of program processes. These procedures are utilized as training material for new employees, as well as references for field staff.
Staff developed Guidance Documents for operators and stakeholders to use in an effort to reduce many of the variable interpretations of Division Statutes that have occurred in the past. Staff identified several hot topic issues including spills and reclamation activity and developed documents to aide operators with such events.
The development of Standard Operating Procedures and Guidance Documents is an ongoing project within the Oil and Gas Program that will be updated as additional policies and processes are identified and developed.