Nick Snow
Washington Correspondent
WASHINGTON, DC, June 13 -- An exemption for oil and gas producers from a federal storm-water permit requirement took effect June 12, the US Environmental Protection Agency said.
The exemption, mandated by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, means that uncontaminated storm water discharged from exploration and production activities does not require a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit.
Producers still will be encouraged to use best management practices for field construction to minimize erosion and control sediment during storms, EPA said. States also retain the right to regulate these activities under other laws and authorities.
"EPA's final action on clarifying this matter is important because the industry will be regulated the same whether it's constructing or operating a well," said Lee O. Fuller, vice-president for government relations at the Independent Petroleum Association of America.
He said the revisions prevent a potential loss of 1.3-2.9 billion bbl of crude oil and 15-45 tcf of natural gas, as estimated by the Department of Energy.
"The industry will continue to manage storm water in an environmentally effective way," he said.
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