Denver-based oil and gas operator K.P. Kauffman (KPK) is once again in the spotlight as Colorado begins implementing new regulations. KPK operates around 1,200 wells in northeastern Colorado, the majority of which are low-producing, and has racked up so many violations and fines that the state threatened to revoke the company’s license to operate.
The Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC), which regulates oil and gas in the state, is currently considering KPK’s financial plan under new financial assurance rules which were finalized in March 2022 and which increased the minimum bonds operators must provide. The northeastern Colorado communities of Dacono and Frederick argue that KPK’s financial plan is insufficient and are urging the ECMC to reject it. Either town could also petition the ECMC to order KPK to plug and abandon its wells within their jurisdictions; this would be the first test of another new rule that gave them the right to do so.
K.P. Kauffman and its various sites and spills were highlighted in Backyard Problems, a recent report from the Center for Western Priorities that examines the West’s long history of extractive activity and the toxic messes left behind.
Quick hits
Interior opens two new wildlife refuges, one in Wyoming
E&E News | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service [press release] | Wyoming Tribune Eagle
Newsom signs bills to address unplugged oil wells, disclose corporate greenhouse gas emissions
First-of-its-kind land deal struck between White River National Forest and Summit County, Colorado
Crews reactivated to clean up more asphalt from spill into Yellowstone River in June train derailment
Wildlife crossing project, including nine underpasses, completed in Wyoming
Outdoor recreation needs new rules to protect wildlife
Opinion: Take back public lands from private corporations
Opinion: BLM must manage public land for more than just oil and gas
Quote of the day
When the financial assurance rules were passed, the commission was right to be proud. They were truly the strongest rules in the nation. However, they need to be implemented properly.”
—Matt Sura, attorney representing the town of Frederick, Denver Post
Picture This
@elmalpaisnps Earth Science Week, celebrated each October, is a great way to learn and connect with the natural world around us. El Malpais, which is sometimes known as the “Hawaii of the desert Southwest,” showcases a series of young volcanic flows and allows visitors the opportunity to discover an enchanting volcanic landscape. Fall is a great time to be outside exploring the many wonders of New Mexico’s dynamic landscape. After all, it’s not every day that you can hike on the youngest volcanic flow in the state!
Feature image: Oil and gas development in northeastern Colorado, WildEarth Guardians via Flickr