Colorado regulators question drilling moratorium - This has upset Oil and Gas Companies

Denver Post

Posted: 10/04/2011 08:08:09 AM MDT

Updated: 10/04/2011 12:56:21 PM MDT

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.—Colorado oil and gas regulators are questioning El Paso County's decision to impose a four-month moratorium on drilling permits after county officials were warned about plans for large-scale drilling in the county.

Dave Neslin, director of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, said regulators do not believe a local moratorium is appropriate. He said the state provides sufficient regulation and local officials did not discuss the temporary ban with the commission.

Under state law, counties can set land use regulations to address such issues as setbacks, environmental aspects and site safety. They also are worried about impacts to roads and ensuring adequate and safe water supplies.

The state regulates drilling and extraction activity that happens beneath the surface.
El Paso County has no local rules. Staff members warned the county commission last week that an undisclosed energy company was considering setting up large-scale exploration pad sites soon.

The story was first reported by the Colorado Springs Gazette (http://bit.ly/qG8BGa).

County officials say the four-month suspension would give county leaders more time to create local land use regulations and set up a permit process.

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Get over it O&G. You are destroying the land of the people. Have a shot of warm frac-fluid and tuck yourself into bed. You are not the 'King' of all kingdoms. You are not an authority that supersedes all minions. You are a human that simply steps on others for a dollar bill. In fact, you are not a civilized human. If an environmental or human health issue is in question, you should refrain from operations. Period.

This is a serious concern Mr. David Neslin, and you need to understand that you are not abiding by your mission statement, wherein it states:

The mission of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) is to foster the responsible development of Colorado's oil and gas natural resources.

Responsible development results in:

• The efficient exploration and production of oil and gas resources in a manner consistent with the protection of public health, safety and welfare
• The prevention of waste
• The protection of mineral owners' correlative rights
• The prevention and mitigation of adverse environmental impacts 

The COGCC seeks to serve, solicit participation from, and maintain working relationships with all those having an interest in Colorado's oil and gas natural resources.


Listen to the people Neslin! Empty your pockets and work for the people!