BLM seeks public comment on new well development proposals in Garfield County

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, COLO. – The Bureau of Land Management Glenwood Springs Field Office seeks public comment on two new natural gas well-development proposals submitted by EnCana Oil and Gas (USA) Inc.

EnCana has submitted to BLM two Geographic Area Plans (GAPs), which are well-development proposals required for areas leased by the federal government. The documents are used to plan the exploration and future development of federal leases within a specific area, including well locations, roads, and pipelines. GAPs also identify environmental impacts and appropriate measures to mitigate these impacts.

The Rulison Geographic Area Plan details a proposal to drill 68 wells over two to three years about eight miles southwest of Rifle, Colo., between Spruce Creek and Porcupine Creek. The wells would be drilled from six existing well pads and six new locations using directional drilling technology. The proposed area for development covers 1,818 acres of BLM surface and mineral estate, including 672 acres of private lands with leased federal minerals. Comments need to be received by BLM by Feb. 20, 2006.

The South Parachute Geographic Area Plan details a proposal to drill 186 wells over three years about 3 miles southeast of Parachute, Colo., adjacent to Battlement Mesa. The wells would be drilled from 19 existing well pads and 15 new locations using directional drilling technology. The proposed area for development covers 4,796 acres of BLM surface and mineral estate, including 475 acres of private lands with leased federal minerals. Comments on this proposal need to be received by BLM by Feb. 27, 2006.

Both plans propose beginning drilling in the spring or summer of 2006. BLM would like to know of any concerns, issues, or comments on the proposals before completing an environmental review.

Comments and questions should be directed to Jim Byers, (970) 947-2804, jim_byers@blm.gov. They can also be sent to the Glenwood Springs Field Office Manager, 50629 Highway 6 & 24, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.

Copies of the proposals are available for review at the Glenwood Springs Field Office.

-BLM-