The subject of petroleum drilling hydraulic fracturing evokes many powerful reactions from those who claim it is harmful and/or dangerous to the environment. We have noted the recent regulation revision by Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission as to several facets of this drilling-related activity.
We are aware that some viewpoints suggest total banning of this approach to liberating oil and gas from specific formations, however a reading of the regulation abstract suggests that very well informed persons have pondered the technical questions and weighed evidence sufficient to make the judgments found therein.
We therefore suggest that our readers read the whole referenced article and consider what is being asked by the regulations. It appears to us that a significant safety margin is being proposed, and that this activity is not nearly as dangerous nor malignant as it is often portrayed. After all, Alaskans live there and these rules seem to be good enough for them.
We invite our readers to refer contrary studies to us if they wish. We promise to review any and all that we receive.
The Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (AOGCC) has proposed to adopt changes to rules governing hydraulic fracturing activity in the state.
AOGCC said Dec. 20 it proposed regulations changes in Title 20, Chapter 25 of the Alaska Administrative Code. AOGCC plans to add new regulations, including requirements for landowners, surface owners and operators within one-quarter mile of a wellbore being notified of hydraulic fracturing activity. The new regulations will include:
- Pre and post hydraulic fracturing water well water sampling and analysis
- Chemical disclosure of hydraulic fracturing fluids
- Wellbore integrity requirements
- Containment of hydraulic fracturing fluids
For workover operations, an application for sundry approvals must be submitted to and approved by AOGCC in order to enter a well and conduct the perforation or reperforation of casing; stimulation; the pulling of tubing; alteration of the casing; repairs to a well; and re-entering a suspended or abandoned well to the extent these operations are not covered by a permit to drill. Sundry approvals issued under this subsection will expire two years after the approval date.
http://rigzone.com/news/oil_gas/a/123178/Alaska_Proposes_Changes_to_Hydraulic_Fracturing_Rules
