Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels

Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels PDF Author: U. S. Environmental U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: 9781508858256
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 46

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Book Description
This guidance provides technical recommendations for protecting underground sources of drinking water (USDWs) from potential endangerment posed by hydraulic fracturing (HF) activities where diesel fuels are used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed this guidance for EPA permit writers to ensure protection of USDWs in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Underground Injection Control (UIC) regulatory authority. This authority is limited to when diesel fuels are used in fluids or propping agents pursuant to oil, gas and geothermal activities. This document does not establish any new permitting requirements for HF activities using diesel fuels, but describes the EPA's interpretation of existing legal requirements as well as non-binding recommendations for EPA permit writers to consider in applying UIC Class II1 regulations to HF when diesel fuels are used in fracturing fluids or propping agents. This document does not address geothermal activities. The EPA expects that EPA UIC Program Directors, and the permit writers acting on their behalf, will follow the interpretation of the statutory term "diesel fuels" presented in this guidance document. They should also consider, although are not required to follow, the recommendations reflected in this guidance on how to apply the Class II regulations to HF activities using diesel fuels when issuing permits for such activities under the federal UIC Program. Recommendations are consistent with the discretion accorded under the existing UIC Class II regulations, and reflect existing UIC requirements for other well classes, voluntary industry standards, state rules, and other model guidelines for HF. However, permit writers, acting on behalf of the UIC Director have the discretion to consider alternative approaches that are consistent with statutory and regulatory requirements. Decisions about permitting HF operations that use diesel fuels will be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the facts and circumstances of the specific injection activity and applicable statutes, regulations and case law. Under the 2005 amendments to the SDWA, a UIC Class II permit must be obtained prior to conducting the underground injection of diesel fuels for hydraulic fracturing. The EPA, where it directly implements the program, as well as states and tribes with primary enforcement authority, must issue a Class II permit prior to the injection of diesel fuels in the HF fluid or propping agents. The primary audience for these technical recommendations is the EPA Regional offices directly implementing the existing UIC Class II Program requirements (40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) parts 124 and 144 through 147). Stakeholders and the public have recognized the importance of safely and responsibly managing unconventional oil and gas development, including hydraulic fracturing. Many states have updated their oil and gas regulations and a variety of organizations have developed model guidelines and best practices. The EPA engaged with states, tribes, industry, and other stakeholders during the development of this document and reviewed best practices available at the time. The EPA used information from these efforts to inform this guidance for the UIC program.

Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels

Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels PDF Author: U. S. Environmental U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: 9781508858256
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 46

Get Book Here

Book Description
This guidance provides technical recommendations for protecting underground sources of drinking water (USDWs) from potential endangerment posed by hydraulic fracturing (HF) activities where diesel fuels are used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed this guidance for EPA permit writers to ensure protection of USDWs in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Underground Injection Control (UIC) regulatory authority. This authority is limited to when diesel fuels are used in fluids or propping agents pursuant to oil, gas and geothermal activities. This document does not establish any new permitting requirements for HF activities using diesel fuels, but describes the EPA's interpretation of existing legal requirements as well as non-binding recommendations for EPA permit writers to consider in applying UIC Class II1 regulations to HF when diesel fuels are used in fracturing fluids or propping agents. This document does not address geothermal activities. The EPA expects that EPA UIC Program Directors, and the permit writers acting on their behalf, will follow the interpretation of the statutory term "diesel fuels" presented in this guidance document. They should also consider, although are not required to follow, the recommendations reflected in this guidance on how to apply the Class II regulations to HF activities using diesel fuels when issuing permits for such activities under the federal UIC Program. Recommendations are consistent with the discretion accorded under the existing UIC Class II regulations, and reflect existing UIC requirements for other well classes, voluntary industry standards, state rules, and other model guidelines for HF. However, permit writers, acting on behalf of the UIC Director have the discretion to consider alternative approaches that are consistent with statutory and regulatory requirements. Decisions about permitting HF operations that use diesel fuels will be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the facts and circumstances of the specific injection activity and applicable statutes, regulations and case law. Under the 2005 amendments to the SDWA, a UIC Class II permit must be obtained prior to conducting the underground injection of diesel fuels for hydraulic fracturing. The EPA, where it directly implements the program, as well as states and tribes with primary enforcement authority, must issue a Class II permit prior to the injection of diesel fuels in the HF fluid or propping agents. The primary audience for these technical recommendations is the EPA Regional offices directly implementing the existing UIC Class II Program requirements (40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) parts 124 and 144 through 147). Stakeholders and the public have recognized the importance of safely and responsibly managing unconventional oil and gas development, including hydraulic fracturing. Many states have updated their oil and gas regulations and a variety of organizations have developed model guidelines and best practices. The EPA engaged with states, tribes, industry, and other stakeholders during the development of this document and reviewed best practices available at the time. The EPA used information from these efforts to inform this guidance for the UIC program.

Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels

Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels PDF Author: U. S. Environmental U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: 9781508848752
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 46

Get Book Here

Book Description
This guidance provides technical recommendations for protecting underground sources of drinking water (USDWs) from potential endangerment posed by hydraulic fracturing (HF) activities where diesel fuels are used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed this guidance for EPA permit writers to ensure protection of USDWs in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Underground Injection Control (UIC) regulatory authority. This authority is limited to when diesel fuels are used in fluids or propping agents pursuant to oil, gas and geothermal activities. This document does not establish any new permitting requirements for HF activities using diesel fuels, but describes the EPA's interpretation of existing legal requirements as well as non-binding recommendations for EPA permit writers to consider in applying UIC Class II1 regulations to HF when diesel fuels are used in fracturing fluids or propping agents. This document does not address geothermal activities. The EPA expects that EPA UIC Program Directors, and the permit writers acting on their behalf, will follow the interpretation of the statutory term "diesel fuels" presented in this guidance document. They should also consider, although are not required to follow, the recommendations reflected in this guidance on how to apply the Class II regulations to HF activities using diesel fuels when issuing permits for such activities under the federal UIC Program. Recommendations are consistent with the discretion accorded under the existing UIC Class II regulations, and reflect existing UIC requirements for other well classes, voluntary industry standards, state rules, and other model guidelines for HF. However, permit writers, acting on behalf of the UIC Director have the discretion to consider alternative approaches that are consistent with statutory and regulatory requirements. Decisions about permitting HF operations that use diesel fuels will be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the facts and circumstances of the specific injection activity and applicable statutes, regulations and case law. Under the 2005 amendments to the SDWA, a UIC Class II permit must be obtained prior to conducting the underground injection of diesel fuels for hydraulic fracturing. The EPA, where it directly implements the program, as well as states and tribes with primary enforcement authority, must issue a Class II permit prior to the injection of diesel fuels in the HF fluid or propping agents. The primary audience for these technical recommendations is the EPA Regional offices directly implementing the existing UIC Class II Program requirements (40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) parts 124 and 144 through 147). Stakeholders and the public have recognized the importance of safely and responsibly managing unconventional oil and gas development, including hydraulic fracturing. Many states have updated their oil and gas regulations and a variety of organizations have developed model guidelines and best practices. The EPA engaged with states, tribes, industry, and other stakeholders during the development of this document and reviewed best practices available at the time. The EPA used information from these efforts to inform this guidance for the UIC program.

Permitting Shale Gas Development

Permitting Shale Gas Development PDF Author: Emily A. Collins
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 23

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Book Description
As a matter of historical practice and an exemption from the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, the regulatory framework for shale gas extraction currently resides within state permitting and enforcement structures. The 11th Circuit decision in Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation v. U.S. EPA prompted federal agency study, which resulted in Congress expressly excluding "the underground injection of fluids or propping agents (other than diesel fuels) pursuant to hydraulic fracturing operations related to oil, gas, or geothermal production activities" from the definition of "underground injection." Thus, in keeping with traditional regulation of on-shore oil and gas development and groundwater, states have been left to their own devices in addressing any potential underground migration of fluids and gas as a result of hydraulic fracturing activities.Left without a federal floor of minimal regulation in permitting shale gas extraction, states have routinely modified their statutes and rules to address increasing public concern and to reflect enhanced understanding of well construction and the hydraulic fracturing process. Yet, most states have not fully utilized their statutory authority to address the environmental risk assessment that would take place if the exemption of hydraulic fracturing activities from the federal definition of "underground injection" were not present. Rather than using their statutory authority to evaluate potential environmental impacts from shale gas extraction proposals, most states permitting of oil and gas development have stuck to a traditional role: require minimum well construction standards, setbacks, and a process for groundwater supply replacement. This approach differs dramatically from the predictive model-based approach of permitting underground injection control wells.

Environmental Considerations Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations

Environmental Considerations Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations PDF Author: James A. Jacobs
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119336112
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 921

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Book Description
A guide to environmental and communication issues related to fracking and the best approach to protect communities Environmental Considerations Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations offers a much-needed resource that explores the complex challenges of fracking by providing an understanding of the environmental and communication issues that are inherent with hydraulic fracturing. The book balances the current scientific knowledge with the uncertainty and risks associated with hydraulic fracking. In addition, the authors offer targeted approaches for helping to keep communities safe. The authors include an overview of the historical development of hydraulic fracturing and the technology currently employed. The book also explores the risk, prevention, and mitigation factors that are associated with fracturing. The authors also include legal cases, regulatory issues, and data on the cost of recovery. The volume presents audit checklists for gathering critical information and documentation to support the reliability of the current environmental conditions related to fracking operations and the impact fracking can have on a community. This vital resource: Contains the technical information and mitigation recommendations for safety and environmental issues related to hydraulic fracturing Offers an historical overview of conventional and unconventional oil and gas drilling Explains the geologic and technical issues associated with fracking of tight sand and shale formulations Presents numerous case studies from the United States EPA and other agencies Discusses issues of co-produced waste water and induced seismicity from the injection of wastewater Written for environmental scientists, geologists, engineers, regulators, city planners, attorneys, foresters, wildlife biologists, and others, Environmental Considerations Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations offers a comprehensive resource to the complex environmental and communication issues related to fracking.

Federal Register

Federal Register PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Delegated legislation
Languages : en
Pages : 468

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Book Description


Review of Federal Hydraulic Fracturing Research Activities

Review of Federal Hydraulic Fracturing Research Activities PDF Author: United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science, Space, and Technology (2011). Subcommittee on Energy
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Gas well drilling
Languages : en
Pages : 100

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Book Description


Environmental Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing

Environmental Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing PDF Author: Frank R. Spellman
Publisher: CRC Press
ISBN: 146651468X
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 465

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Book Description
There is a strong need for innovation and the development of viable renewable energy sources. Recent technological advances now allow natural gas supplies—previously believed inaccessible or nonexistent—to be discovered, mined, and processed for both industrial and consumer use. The technology, a controversial process that is alternatively called hydraulic fracturing, fracking, fracing, or hydrofracking, has greatly expanded natural gas production in the United States. Presenting a balanced discussion, Environmental Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing is a comprehensive guide to all aspects of hydraulic fracturing used to extract natural gas, along with gas exploration and production in various shale fields. As the use of hydraulic fracturing has grown, concerns about its environmental and public health impacts have also increased—one of the most significant concerns being the fluids that are injected into rock formations to cause the fracturing contain potentially hazardous chemical additives. The book covers all facets of the issue, including ongoing controversies about the environmental and operator safety issues arising from possible water pollution, drinking water contamination, on-the-job safety hazards, and harmful chemical exposure to workers and residents near well areas. The author discusses both the pros and cons of hydraulic fracturing, explaining the process in great detail. He describes the benefits of hydraulic fracturing and its importance in making the United States energy independent by drilling for its own resources, as well as the potential impacts to the surrounding environment. The text also includes suggestions and recommendations on how to mitigate environmental damage. Arguably the first book of its kind, this is the go-to text on the use and impacts of hydraulic fracturing.

The Law of Energy Underground

The Law of Energy Underground PDF Author: Donald N. Zillman
Publisher: OUP Oxford
ISBN: 0191008257
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 546

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Book Description
While energy has been extracted from the ground for two centuries, recent years have seen transformative changes to how easy it is to access underground energy resources. This book investigates the key challenges and legal consequences of recent developments in the use of the subsurface as a source of energy. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the new technologies that have made this possible, such as the extraction of unconventional oil and gas resources through horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking. Further developments include the expanded use of geothermal energy, which has the potential to beome a major renewable energy source. The subsurface can also be utilised for long-term disposal or storage of environmentally harmful by-products of energy use, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), and disposal of spent nuclear fuel and other nuclear waste. Successful development of these technologies could enhance the use of fossil and nuclear energy by reducing the harm caused by the release of greenhouse gases and harmful radiation. The authors bring together a wide variety of expertise and knowledge to examine the legal implications of the development and control of these underground activities. They provide an invaluable understanding of the legal frameworks applicable to the extraction of underground energy, both at the international level and in a number of important national jurisdictions. Importantly, the book analyses the different regulatory responses to these developments across five continents, and assesses in detail the environmental impact of new energy extraction technologies.

Environmental Law Handbook

Environmental Law Handbook PDF Author: Christopher Bell
Publisher: Bernan Press
ISBN: 1598888668
Category : Law
Languages : en
Pages : 1171

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Book Description
The environmental field and its regulations have evolved significantly since Congress passed the first environmental law in 1970, and the Environmental Law Handbook, published just three years later, has been indispensable to students and professionals ever since. The authors provide clear and accessible explanations, expert legal insight into new and evolving regulations, and reliable compliance and management guidance. The Environmental Law Handbook continues to provide individuals across the country—professionals, professors, and students—with a comprehensive, up-to-date, and easy-to-read look at the major environmental, health, and safety laws affecting U.S. businesses and organizations. Because it is written by the country's leading environmental law firms, it provides the best, most reliable guidance anywhere. Both professional environmental managers and students aspiring to careers in environmental management should keep the Environmental Law Handbook within arm's reach for thoughtful answers to regulatory questions like: How do I ensure compliance with the regulations? How do the latest environmental developments impact my operations? How do we keep our operations efficient and our community safe? The Handbook begins with chapters on the fundamentals of environmental law and on issues of enforcement and liability. It then dives headfirst into the major laws, examining their history, scope, and requirements with a chapter devoted to each. The 23rd edition of this well-known Handbook has been thoroughly updated, covering major changes to the law and enforcement in the areas of Clean Air, Clean Water, Climate Change, Oil Pollution, and Pollution Prevention. This is an essential reference for environmental students and professionals, and anyone who wants the most up-to-date information available on environmental laws.

Global Resources

Global Resources PDF Author: R. Dannreuther
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 113734914X
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 284

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Book Description
This EU-funded project examines the dynamics of conflict, collaboration and competition in relation to access to oil, gas and minerals. It involves 12 different institutions from across the EU and examines oil, gas and other minerals - spanning geology, technology studies, sociology, economics and political science.