The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recently held public hearings regarding its proposed oil and gas methane emissions and waste reduction rules. WORC groups turned out members to support a strong BLM methane waste rule at hearings in Dickinson, N.D, and Lakewood, Colo.
Lakewood Hearing
WORC groups Western Colorado Congress and Powder River Basin Resource Council organized members to attend the Lakewood hearing. People testifying in favor of the BLM’s proposed rule dominated the hearing, outnumbering those opposed to the rule by around a 5-1 margin.
Dickinson Hearing
The Dickinson hearing had a similar result to the Lakewood hearing. Those testifying in favor of the rule outnumbered those opposed by a 3-1 margin. Twenty-five members of the Dakota Resource Council and Northern Plains Resource Council testified in favor of the proposed rule. In addition, Dakota Resource Council’s newest affiliate, Fort Berthold POWER, organized a solid Native American contingent to speak in support of strong methane emissions reductions on tribal lands.
What does this mean?
The strong showing by those in favor of the rule demonstrates support for the rule to move forward as drafted, and for additional, tougher provisions to the final rule. Some key improvements would include fewer exemptions for flaring and increased frequency of methane leak inspections.
How can you support a stronger BLM methane waste rule?
It is important to get as many comments supporting the rule as possible by the deadline. The BLM is accepting comments until April 8. You can submit a comment supporting the proposed rule by clicking here.