State regulation of oil and natural gas exploration and production activities are approved under state laws that typically include a prohibition against causing harm to the environment. This premise is at the heart of the regulatory process. The regulation of oil and gas field activities is managed best at the state level where regional and local conditions are understood and where regulations can be tailored to fit the needs of the local environment. Hence, the experience, knowledge and information necessary to regulate effectively most commonly rests with state regulatory agencies. Many state agencies use programmatic tools and documents to apply state laws including regulations, formal and informal guidance, field rules, and Best Management Practices (BMPs). They are also equipped to conduct field inspections, enforcement/oversight, and witnessing of specific operations like well construction, testing and plugging.
PDF
download
878987797
028-85220240
