Pact Will Regulate Oil Wells More Efficiently

A memorandum to govern California oil well operators will result in more efficient government and streamlined environmental and safety checks, state and federal officials say.

The recent agreement between the California Department of Conservation and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management affects 5,700 oil wells on federal property, most of them in Ventura and Kern counties.

“This memorandum of understanding is an example of how government can reduce the burden on business in California without compromising safety and environmental concerns,” said Elin D. Miller, Department of Conservation director.

Before the agreement went into effect, California oil wells on BLM property were subject to duplicate state and federal regulations and paperwork. Now, officials said, the most appropriate agency directs activities such as issuing permits, conducting inspections and administering cleanup requirements.

“Our objective in signing this memorandum of understanding is to develop the most cost-effective and efficient working relationship possible among federal and state government agencies and the oil and gas industry,” said state BLM Director Ed Hastey.

Before signing the memorandum, BLM and state officials reviewed common requirements and agreed which agency was best suited to perform various jobs. The memorandum establishes guidelines for the two organizations to share information and data about well production and operations.

Among its duties, the Department of Conservation regulates oil, gas and geothermal drilling and production operations.

BLM, an agency of the Department of the Interior, cares for 14.3 million acres of public lands in California.