|
In 2007, with $100/bbl oil looming, wildcatters looked again at Santa Fe County as a possible source of oil and/or natural gas. Some exploratory wells had been drilled several years ago, but were abandoned as being impractical. Since that time the population of the southern part of the County has grown, with more communities planned. These residents have come together under the organization DrillingSantaFe to oppose a free-ranging series of wells. One particular concern is the possibility of contaminating the aquifer, either by the chemicals used in the exploration process, or by leaks in the well or pipelines in the event that oil is found. The citizens of Santa Fe County get over 95% of their drinking water from underground aquifers. The quantity and quality of that resource must be protected absolutely.
In November 2007, Santa Fe County drafted a new ordinance to regulate oil and gas facilities. SFBWA responded to this draft with a position statement raising a number of water-related concerns along with recommendations for resolving them. In January 2008, Santa Fe County issued a revised draft of the ordinance. This draft adopted some of the recommendations from SFBWA (particularly with respect to pollution monitoring of groundwater), but not all. As a result, SFBWA remains concerned about the revised draft and is preparing a further response [to be provided]. SFBWA will continue to track the ordinance and work with the County to protect the quality of our drinking water.
|
