A number of important activities such as planning, permitting and consultation with various stakeholders take place before we drill a well.
Our engineers, geoscientists and environmental employees work in collaboration with regulatory staffs to collect and analyze information on the geology and surface conditions of a potential drill site. We develop drilling, surface-use, and water-management plans to maximize oil and gas production while protecting the environment and minimizing the well’s overall footprint.
Our planning processes incorporate studies on local wildlife and natural resources to identify potential impacts from our operations. We use this data to make necessary modifications, such as locating well pads and facilities outside nesting habitats, adhering to timing restrictions and reclaiming land by planting vegetation that provides forage for wildlife.
Where possible, we are drilling longer laterals and using improved completions techniques to more efficiently develop reservoirs while decreasing our land footprint. Drilling one 10,000-foot lateral can be more efficient than drilling two that are 5,000 feet long. This strategy has boosted flow rates and the amount of resource we expect to recover, while also lowering cost of supply by reducing the need for additional well pads and facilities.
We also work with communities, business leaders, and other interested parties to understand their needs and incorporate what we learn into our business plans and actions. We strive to promote understanding of our operations, engage with communities, and minimize developmental impacts.
We also work closely with government regulatory agencies to understand the permitting requirements. We follow the permitting process as prescribed by the agencies, and our drilling activities do not commence without approvals from the appropriate regulatory agencies.
Read more about our commitment to protecting land, plants, animals and ecosystems.
