PAW Applauds Wyoming Primacy over Class VI Injection Wells
Wyoming becomes second state to gain primacy over wells related to carbon dioxide storage under Safe Drinking Water Act
September 4, 2020
Casper, Wyo. – The Petroleum Association of Wyoming (PAW) applauded the final decision by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to grant primacy to the State of Wyoming over Class VI wells under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Class VI wells are related to the injection of carbon dioxide for storage.
PAW has long held that the federal government is not the sole gatekeeper of environmental protections. After a thorough review, the EPA has determined that Wyoming has met all requirements to implement Class VI regulations – making the state a leader in this area by becoming just the second state in the U.S. to receive this determination after North Dakota.
“Based on the long history of success Wyoming has had in balancing natural resource development and environmental stewardship, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality is uniquely qualified to regulate these wells,” said PAW President Pete Obermueller. “PAW is thankful for the work completed by the EPA and State of Wyoming to bring these regulations closer to on-the-ground development. Given Wyoming’s expertise in natural resource development, it only makes sense to capitalize on that knowledge when it comes to regulating the industry.”
About PAW: Representing Wyoming’s primary economic engine, the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, is the voice of the oil and gas industry. Our members produce 90% of Wyoming’s oil and gas, generating over $5 billion in economic activity and employing more than 19,000 of Wyoming’s hard-working men and women. PAW strives to foster mutually beneficial relationships with Wyoming’s landowners, businesses, and communities while promoting the sustainable production of Wyoming’s abundant resources.
The Petroleum Association of Wyoming provides a forum for education, interaction, and unified action for members, policymakers, and the public.