Several hundred people attended a public hearing today at the Paramount Theatre in Denver to discuss efforts by the state to tighten regulations on the booming oil and gas industry.
The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission will hold hearings throughout the week to gather public input on proposed rules designed to protect the environment, public health and wildlife.
Opponents say the rules will drive oil and gas operators to other states, crushing one of the pillars of Colorado’s economy. Proponents say tighter regulations are needed to mitigate the impacts of drilling.
A number of landowners from Las Animas County in southern Colorado voiced concern today that the proposed rules would give neighbors the power to dictate what occurs on their property.
The commission’s acting director, Dave Neslin, clarified that that rule would only give adjacent landowners advance notice of drilling activity but not veto authority or the right to call a hearing to discuss the matter.
Oil-and-gas-industry supporters slammed a rule that could force operators to stop drilling for 90 days each year in wildlife-breeding areas.
Neslin said there are several ways for operators to avoid having to shut down for 90 days, such as if they agree to work with the Division of Wildlife on a comprehensive mitigation plan.
Peter Ackerman of the Colorado Oil and Gas Association said it is “cynical” to suggest that the rule won’t lead to a three-month shutdown for operators.
The rules were drafted to comply with two bills passed by the legislature last year requiring the commission to consider public health and wildlife in its permitting process.
A decision on the rules is expected in August.
Andy Vuong: 303-954-1209 or avuong@denverpost.com
