HomeMy WebLinkAbout17 Impact AnalysisIMPACT ANALYSIS
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Battlement Mesa PUD Phase II — BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
Table of Contents
Garfield County Zoning Resolution of 1978 1
5.03.07 Industrial Operations Impact Analysis 1
Section 5.03.07(1) Impact Statement 1
Section 5.03.07(2) Traffic 3
Section 5.03.07(3) Distance Buffers 3
Section 5.03.07(5) Rehabilitation 3
Land Use and Development Code 2013 3
Section 4-203.G. Impact Analysis 3
Adjacent Land Use 3
Site Features 4
Soil Characteristics 4
Geology and Hazard 5
Groundwater and Aquifer Recharge Areas 5
Environmental Impacts 6
Nuisance 9
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
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May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 ii
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
Article 4 — Impact Analysis
GARFIELD COUNTY ZONING RESOLUTION OF 1978
5.03.07 Industrial Operations Impact Analysis
Section 5.03.07M Impact Statement
(a) Wetland and Water of the U.S. Impacts: Construction of the BMC L Pad has limited potential
to affect wetlands and Waters of the U.S. by introducing fill, either directly during construction
or indirectly from runoff. Implementation of a Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure
Plan (SPCC), a Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP), and Best Management Practices
(BMPs) associated with this type of project will provide mitigation for any potential impacts.
Mapped drainages and wetlands will be protected by Ursa using buffer zones, stormwater
BMPs, and SPCC BMPs.
(b) Noise and dust may be generated during construction of the proposed well pad. The impacts
of these nuisances will be mitigated by use of industry best management practices.
Data gathered during previous sound monitoring has demonstrated Ursa's compliance with
the appropriate sound regulations. A preliminary noise analysis report modeled for this
location is included in this submittal. Ursa will install sound mitigation as outlined in the report.
The preliminary noise analysis anticipates Ursa's BMC L will be in compliance with the
relevant sound regulations with the mitigation measures. After the well pad has been placed
into the production phase, Ursa will comply with COGCC and Colorado Revised Statutes for
noise levels in Residential/Agricultural/Rural zones.
Ursa will comply with COGCC green completion practices and the EPA's natural gas STAR
program to reduce VOC emissions to the lowest level technically possible for the wells on the
BMC L pad. To this end, Ursa will apply a low emissions flow back process for well
completions and will route tank venting emissions through an enclosed combustor.
Enclosed combustor type flares will be employed to burn off emissions at a 95+% efficiency.
These flares have little to no visible flames and will not be visible beyond the boundaries of
the oil and gas location. Enclosed combustors are the best technology for eliminating fugitive
VOCs.
Use of VRUs will be determined on a case-by-case basis due to the dry nature of gas in the
Battlement Mesa area. A temporary VRU may be used for newly completed wells during the
peak flow back period. The VRU will allow for the capture of additional vapors instead of
burning them. This will decrease tank pressures. A VRU has a 95+% efficiency rating to
reduce VOCs.
Additionally, Ursa commits to using carbon blankets over hatches on temporary tanks to
reduce odors. Ursa has in place a program to immediately respond to odor complaints via
their Land Department. Other best management practices to control emissions include limiting
the idling of vehicles while on site and the use of green completion techniques.
Ursa has developed and implemented a Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) emissions
monitoring program with infrared cameras to detect and repair any fugitive emissions. In
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 1
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
addition, they have implemented a Storage Tank Emissions Monitoring (STEM) program to
monitor and repair any fugitive emissions associated with condensate and produced water
tanks. These programs have been developed in compliance with CDPHE Regulation 7
requirements. Ursa's LDAR program is set-up to inspect all facilities at least monthly during
drilling and completion and quarterly during production. If a leak is discovered, the first attempt
to repair the leak shall be made as soon as reasonably possible and in accordance with
COGCC and CDPHE rules. Pumpers are on location daily and will inspect equipment every
day. Pumpers also complete Audio, Visual, Olfactory (AVO) inspections weekly.
Potential dust impacts will be mitigated as directed in Ursa's Fugitive Dust Plan using water
or other dust suppressants as appropriate. During construction, truckloads of dirt, sand,
aggregate materials, drilling cuttings, and similar materials will be covered to reduce dust and
particulate matter emissions during transport. Remote monitoring during the production phase
will be used to reduce truck traffic and fugitive dust to the extent practical.
Lighting impacts during drilling and completion operations will be mitigated per the SUA. All
lighting, except as demonstrated for safety reasons, will be directed inward and downward
and be shaded to prevent direct reflection on adjacent property and residences in the area.
LED lights will be used when possible and practical. Workers will be advised when moving
light plants to ensure that the light is focused directly on the work being done. Drilling mast
lighting will be downcast and shielded to reduce fugitive light outside the well pad. Safety
considerations will take precedence.
During the production phase, all lights will be directed inward and downward, towards the
interior of the site and away from residences.
Above ground facilities will be painted to blend with the environment to minimize visual
impacts.
(c) Creation of hazardous conditions: Some passerine bird species and small mammals may
choose to inhabit or nest on equipment or objects on these locations. The inherent risks
associated with these structures are low. By closing or covering all ports, hatches, cavities,
and openings (such as the ends of pipes) this potential is decreased. Most non -game bird
species and their nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703-712;
Ch. 128; July 13, 1918; 40 Stat. 755) and damaging occupied nests could be considered a
"take" resulting in a violation.
Indirect Construction Effects: Additional human presence and activity related to construction,
operation, and maintenance of the facilities may influence spatial and temporal use of habitat
surrounding the project by wildlife. The greatest influence on wildlife use would be during the
drilling and completion phases. During the operation and maintenance period, the impacts
would be minimal. Since the site exists within and adjacent to significant and long-term human
presence, the additional disturbance from this project is expected to be low.
Road -kill: Speed limits are set low and most wildlife in the area have become habituated to
vehicle traffic. The potential for increased vehicle related mortalities related to this project
should be low.
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 2
OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
Endangered Fish Species: Designated critical habitat for two endangered fish species
(Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker) occurs in the Colorado River downstream of
the project and upstream as far as Rifle. Potential impacts to aquatic species could include
water depletions and runoff from storms or snowmelt that carry increased sediment loads or
pollutants to the river. Implementation of a SPCC, SWMP, and BMPs associated with this type
of project will provide mitigation for any potential impacts.
Section 5.03.07(2) Traffic
All movements at the access are expected to operate at acceptable levels of service throughout
construction. The addition of site traffic, even in the height of construction, does not increase the
existing volumes to amounts required for auxiliary lanes where they are not already provided.
Once construction is complete, the daily volumes will reduce to approximately ten vehicles per
day for the well pad site. Based on the results of the analysis, no mitigation is recommended for
the site.
Water pipelines will be installed to move produced water for reuse on other well pads in the area.
The pipelines will eliminate the need to truck water, except for upset conditions, thus keeping the
traffic volume increases to a minimum after drilling and completions operations are concluded on
the well pad.
Section 5.03.07(3) Distance Buffers
The proposed well pad is in the LDR zone district. The nearest residence is approximately 1,048
feet northwest of the well pad. Grace Bible Church is approximately 1,005 feet southeast of the
well pad.
Section 5.03.07(5) Rehabilitation
(a) Ursa will follow COGCC Rules for Interim and Final Reclamation and the surface owner's
needs of the proposed well pad. A copy of Ursa's Reclamation Plan is included in Reclamation
Section. The SUA with Battlement Mesa outlines the Owner's request for landscaping and
reclamation where appropriate.
(b) The proposed well pad will be a COGCC approved location. Ursa will abide by all reclamation
requirements set out by the SUA and the COGCC. Ursa's surface disturbances are covered
under a statewide bond held by the COGCC. A copy of Ursa's bond is included in Reclamation
Section.
LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT CODE 2013
Section 4-203.G. Impact Analysis
Adjacent Land Use
The adjacent uses within a 1500 -foot radius of the site consist of a golf course, residences, a
church, and vacant PUD property. The proposed use is consistent with the predominant existing
uses in the surrounding area. Visual, vegetative, and topographical buffering will be implemented
to separate the proposed facility from the less compatible nearby uses, including the residences,
the church, and the golf course. These uses will not be impacted by construction and operation
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 3
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
of the well BMC L beyond normal industrial uses of the parcel once the well pad enters the
production phase.
Additionally, the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) requires that
operators to notify all surface and building owners within 1000 feet of the proposed project site.
Local governments with land use authority are required to be consulted and notified as part of
COGCC's Large Urban Mitigation Area (LUMA) rules. COGCC has a series of notifications that
go out to owners and local governments including pre -application notifications. Certifications of
the LUMA notifications sent to date are included with this submittal. The proposed pad was moved
115 feet north after the LUMA notifications were sent out. Ursa has planned stakeholder meetings
to update the status of development plans in the PUD. Ursa participated in Garfield County's
LUMA consultation visit on February 28, 2017. This site no longer falls within LUMA buffers and
does not require LUMA notifications.
Per Garfield County submittal requirements, a list of landowners and mineral rights owners within
200 feet of the proposed project parcel is included with this submittal. Ursa's Land Department
researched mineral rights by using records from the Garfield County Clerk and Recorder's office.
Adjacent landowner addresses were obtained from the Garfield County Assessor's web based
database.
Site Features
The site for the proposed Ursa BMC L well pad is located within the Battlement Mesa PUD zone
district Low Density Residential (LDR). The proposed well pad is off Spencer Parkway (CR 300)
in the W1/2 of Section 8, Township 7 South, Range 95 West of the 6th P.M. on Garfield County
parcel number 2407-082-00-183. The parcel is approximately 57.68 acres. The project site
encompasses approximately 2.9 acres at an elevation of about 5,440 feet. Geologic hazards
potentially affecting the BMC L well pad include slope area, corrosive soils, and expansive soils.
The affected area covers a variety of habitat types consisting of native and disturbed rangelands
as well as agricultural areas and a small amount of riparian or wetland communities. The
vegetative cover consists of mostly sage brush and juniper mix.
The proposed well pad is on a vacant land in the unplatted portion of Battlement Mesa PUD
southeast of the Battlement Creek Village subdivision and east of the Battlement Mesa Golf
Course. The site is relatively flat land sloping toward the Colorado River. The project site, in its
pre -developed condition, is located in a semiarid plateau region between 5,400 feet and 5,500
feet in elevation.
Soil Characteristics
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Soils Map shows the area soil types. The
following soil units, are within the study area around BMC L well pad:
• Potts Loam, 6% to 12 % slopes, Map Symbol 56: The Potts loam is a deep, well drained,
moderately sloping to rolling soil formed on mesas, benches, and the sides of valleys at
elevations between 5,000 feet and 7,000 feet above mean sea level. The Potts loam soil
formed in alluvium derived from sandstone, shale, or basalt. Typically, the surface layer
is a brown loam about four inches thick, the subsoil is a reddish brown clay about 24
inches thick, and the substratum is a pinkish white loam to a depth of 60 inches.
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 4
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
Permeability is moderate, and available water capacity is high. Surface runoff is medium,
and the erosion hazard is severe.
• Potts Ildefonso complex, 12% to 25% slopes, Map Symbol 58: Strongly sloping to hilly
soils on mesas, alluvial fans, and the sides of valleys at elevations ranging from 5,000 feet
to 6,500 feet amsl. As stated above, the Potts loam was formed in alluvium derived from
sandstone, shale, or basalt; while the Ildefonso soil formed in very strongly calcareous,
basaltic alluvium with small amounts of eolian material. Permeability of the Potts loam is
moderate, and the available water capacity is high. Surface runoff is medium, and the
erosion hazard is moderate. Permeability of the Ildefonso soil is moderately rapid and the
available water capacity is low. Surface runoff is medium for the Ildefonso soils, and the
erosion hazard is moderate.
The Potts soils are corrosive to uncoated steel and low to moderately corrosive to concrete.
Community development over these soil types is limited by low strength, shrink -swell potential,
large stones, and slopes. Buried piping and structures onsite will need to have adequate cathodic
protection to prevent corrosion due to the salinity of these soils. Slopes should be protected to
prevent erosion.
3eology and Hazard
For a full report of the Geology and Soils Hazards, see the Geologic Hazards Section. The BMC
L well pad site is located in the southeastern part of the Piceance Basin. The Piceance Basin is
an irregularly-shaped elongated basin formed by tectonic forces associated with the Laramide
orogeny. These forces down warped the earth's crust and formed the Piceance Basin as a result
of the uplift of the surrounding Colorado Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau.
The Piceance Basin is the major structural geologic feature in the region. It is bound to the east
by the Grand Hogback monocline, the White River Uplift to the northeast, the Gunnison Uplift to
the south, the Uncompahgre Uplift to the south and southwest, the Douglas Creek Arch to the
west-northwest, and the axial basin uplift to the north.
Sedimentary rocks in the southwestern Piceance Basin gently dip to the north - northeast except
where this regional dip is interrupted by low -amplitude folds. Numerous small sub -parallel
northwest trending folds have been identified in the Green River Formation within the basin.
There are no mapped faults shown in the area of the site on the Geologic and Structure Map of
the Grand Junction Quadrangle, Garfield County, Colorado or on the Preliminary Geologic Map
of the Grand Valley Quadrangle, Garfield County, Colorado.
Groundwater and Aquifer Recharge Areas
The site is located on a terrace above the Colorado River flood plain. The Colorado River is
approximately 3,500 feet to the northeast. The Monument Gulch creek drainage is located
approximately 1,100 feet to the southwest. There is an unnamed intermittent drainage 850 feet
northeast of the site at the intersection of Spencer Parkway and North Battlement Parkway.
The Wasatch Formation locally yields water to wells in some areas, but is generally considered a
confining unit. The Tertiary sedimentary rocks in the Piceance Basin are generally fine-grained
and well cemented resulting in very low hydraulic conductivity in the rock matrix. Sandstone and
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 5
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
siltstone generally occur in lenticular bodies and locally have moderate hydraulic conductivities
which range from 0.001 to 0.01 foot per day. These lenses of sandstone and siltstone are often
widely spaced and not interconnected which further limits the volumes of groundwater the
formation can yield to wells. In some areas, fracturing during the structural deformation that
occurred when the Piceance Basin was uplifted and through dissolution of cementing minerals
has enhanced the permeability and hydraulic conductivity in parts of the Piceance Basin aquifer
system.
Water well depths in the area typically range from 250 feet to 300 feet below ground surface along
the terraces above the Colorado River. Static water levels reportedly range between 20 feet and
60 feet bgs based on a review of permitted water wells in the vicinity of the site.
Surficial aquifers are present in the alluvium along the Colorado River and its major tributaries.
The depth to groundwater is expected to be less than 20 feet in close proximity to the Colorado
River. This alluvium is typically too thin, narrow, and discontinuous to be considered a major
aquifer, although in some areas the alluvium is locally important as surficial aquifers. Groundwater
within the unconsolidated sediments in the area of the proposed site is controlled by the thickness
of the sediments and the depth to the top of the Wasatch bedrock. The estimated groundwater
flow direction in the vicinity of the site is likely to be sub -parallel with the Colorado River, flowing
north-northwest toward the Colorado River through the center and northern part of the proposed
site.
Environmental Impacts
See the Impact Analysis: Section 4-203-G (8) Environmental Impacts Report prepared by
WestWater Engineering and the Geologic Hazards Report prepared by Olsson Associates for a
full analysis of the Environmental Impacts. The project area was evaluated for threatened,
endangered, or sensitive wildlife and vegetative species, including but not limited to Greater Sage
Grouse, DeBeque phacelia, Parachute beardtongue, Ute ladies' tresses orchid, and Colorado
hookless cactus, listed in Garfield County.
Determination of long-term and short-term effects on flora and fauna
Flora
The vegetation communities affected by the project are largely disturbed by previous
developments and management practices. The project's impact to important native vegetation
would be small within the scope of existing developments and other disturbances. No special
status plant occurrences are known to exist nearby. Noxious weeds occurring in the area are
discussed in an accompanying Integrated Vegetation and Noxious Weed Management Plan
(IVNWMP) prepared by WestWater for this project.
WestWater biologists determined that the project would affect three potentially jurisdictional
wetlands or Waters of the US. Proper marking, temporary fencing, stormwater, and SPCC BMPs
will reduce the likelihood of inadvertent impacts to the wetlands.
Fauna
Designated critical habitat for two endangered fish species (Colorado pikeminnow and razorback
sucker) occurs in the Colorado River downstream of the project and critical habitat for two
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 6
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
additional species (bonytail and humpback chub) occurs downstream of the project near Grand
Junction. Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker have been documented in the river
upstream as far as Rifle.
Potential impacts to aquatic species would be limited to water depletions and runoff from storms
or snowmelt that carry increased sediment loads or pollutants from the project to the river.
Implementation of a Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC), a Stormwater
Management Plan (SWMP), and Best Management Practices (BMPs) associated with this type
of project will provide a good degree of mitigation for any potential impacts.
No high-quality raptor nesting habitat would be affected by the project. Short-term effects could
include temporary displacement of raptors in an avoidance area surrounding the pad due to
increased human presence and equipment associated with construction, operation, and
maintenance of the facility.
Loss of foraging habitat will occur within the footprint of the proposed well pad. No CPW mapped
migration corridors would be affected. Human presence and activity may affect animal distribution
by creating avoidance areas and increasing stress on wintering big game. Due to significant
human presence, deer and elk that winter in this area have become habituated to human activity
and the indirect effects of avoidance and displacement will be diminished. An increase in vehicle
traffic may result in additional vehicle related wildlife mortality, although additional traffic resulting
from this project would contribute minimally, given current traffic volumes on the existing roads.
Fences can pose an increased risk to big game and fencing around the facility should be
constructed per published standards that reduce impacts to big game.
Potential encounters with black bears could occur if garbage or food is available on the site. Ursa
will mitigate the potential impacts to black bears by keeping trash in bear -proof containers and
removing on a regular schedule. Once the well pad enters the production phase, all trash will be
removed by employees during their periodic maintenance visits.
Nesting habitat for migratory birds will be lost in the footprint of the pad and road and construction
during nesting season could result in destruction of active bird nests. The vegetation removal
required for development of this project will reduce foraging habitat available for small mammals
and birds. Human presence and activity may affect animal distribution. An increase in traffic could
result in vehicle related mortalities.
The proposed well pad is not located in Greater Sage Grouse habitat.
Determination of the effect on designated environmental resources, including critical Wildlife
Habitat
Development of the project would not directly affect any designated critical wildlife or occupied
plant habitat for threatened or endangered species. Downstream habitats for aquatic species
could be affected by water depletions, pollutants, and sedimentation. This project would contribute
to cumulative effects of habitat alteration in the area.
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 7
O\OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
Impacts on wildlife and domestic animals through creation of hazardous attractions, alteration of
existing native vegetation, blockade of migration routes, use patterns, or other disruptions
Creation of hazardous conditions: Some passerine bird species and small mammals may choose
to inhabit or nest on equipment or objects at the site. The inherent risks associated with these
structures are low. By closing or covering all ports, hatches, cavities, and openings (such as the
ends of pipes) this potential is decreased. Most non -game bird species and their nests are
protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703-712; Ch. 128; July 13, 1918; 40
Stat. 755) and damaging occupied nests could be considered a "take" resulting in a violation.
Livestock and big game will likely avoid the project sites.
Direct Construction Effects: Construction will remove or significantly alter nesting and foraging
habitat for a variety of migratory and non -migratory birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Indirect Construction Effects: Additional human presence and activity related to construction,
operation, and maintenance of project features may influence spatial and temporal use of habitat
surrounding the project by wildlife. For sites that would be developed adjacent to significant and
long-term human presence, the additional indirect effects in those areas would be smaller.
Road -kill: Speed limits are relatively low and most wildlife in the area has become habituated to
vehicle traffic on public transportation rights-of-way. The potential for vehicle related mortalities
related to this project would be moderate.
Evaluation of any potential radiation hazard that may have been identified by the State or
County Health Departments
Naturally occurring radioactive materials are not expected to be an issue at the Site. Colorado oil
and gas operations are not known to have a significant problem with naturally occurring
radioactive materials (NORM) or technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive
materials (TENORM); however, there have been some instances where pipe scale has contained
radium and associated radon gas.
Olsson reviewed the Colorado Bulletin 40, Radioactive Mineral Occurrences of Colorado which
states that nearly all of Garfield County's uranium production came before1954, and most of that
came from the Rifle and Garfield mines, located along the same ore body near the town of Rifle.
These occurrences were all hosted in the Jurassic Morrison and Entrada Formations, and the
Triassic -Jurassic Navajo Sandstone, or the Triassic Chinle Formation which are known to contain
uranium and vanadium deposits in the county and in the Colorado Plateau in general. These
formations lie at great depth in the vicinity of the Site and are stratigraphically below the depth of
the Wasatch Formation.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has posted a statewide
radon potential map on their website based on data collected by the EPA and the U.S. Geological
Survey. Garfield County and most of Colorado has been mapped as being within Zone 1 — High
Radon Potential, or having a high probability that indoor radon concentrations will exceed the
EPA action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L).
Radon is not expected to be a significant problem at the proposed site since the development will
not include any permanent structures, personnel will not be onsite for extended periods, and the
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 8
OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
site will not be developed with structures containing basements or substructures in which radon
can accumulate.
Noise and dust may be generated during the different operational phases of the proposed well
pad. The impacts of these nuisances will be mitigated by use of industry best management
practices.
Data gathered during previous sound monitoring has demonstrated Ursa's compliance with the
appropriate sound regulations. A preliminary noise analysis report modeled for this location is
included in Sound Study section of this application. Ursa will implement the proposed sound
mitigation measures outlined in the report. The preliminary noise analysis anticipates Ursa's BMC
L well pad will be in compliance with the relevant sound regulations. After the well pad has been
placed into the production phase, Ursa will follow COGCC and Colorado Revised Statutes for
noise levels in Residential/Agricultural/Rural zones.
Ursa will comply with COGCC green completion practices and the EPA's natural gas STAR
program to reduce VOC emissions to the lowest level technically possible for the wells on the
BMC L pad. To this end, Ursa will apply a low emissions flow back process for well completions
and will route tank venting emissions through an enclosed combustor.
Enclosed combustor type flares will be employed to burn off emissions at a 95+% efficiency.
These flares have little to no visible flames and will not be visible beyond the boundaries of the
oil and gas location.
Additionally, Ursa commits to using carbon blankets over hatches on temporary tanks to reduce
odors. Ursa has in place a program to immediately respond to odor complaints via their Land
Department. Other best management practices to control emissions include limiting the idling of
vehicles while on site and the use of green completion techniques.
Ursa has developed and implemented a Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) emissions monitoring
program with infrared cameras to detect and repair any fugitive emissions. In addition, they have
implemented a Storage Tank Emissions Monitoring (STEM) program to monitor and repair any
fugitive emissions associated with condensate and produced water tanks. These programs have
been developed in compliance with CDPHE Regulation 7 requirements. Ursa's LDAR program is
set-up to inspect all facilities at least monthly during drilling and completion and quarterly during
production. If a leak is discovered, the first attempt to repair the leak shall be made as soon as
reasonably possible and in accordance with COGCC and CDPHE rules. Pumpers are on location
daily and will inspect equipment every day. Pumpers also complete Audio, Visual, Olfactory (AVO)
inspections weekly.
Potential dust impacts will be mitigated as directed in Ursa's Fugitive Dust Plan using water or
other dust suppressants as appropriate. During construction, truckloads of dirt, sand, aggregate
materials, drilling cuttings, and similar materials will be covered to reduce dust and particulate
matter emissions during transport. Remote monitoring during the production phase will be used
to reduce truck traffic and fugitive dust to the extent practical.
Lighting impacts during drilling and completion operations will be mitigated per the SUA. All
lighting, except as demonstrated for safety reasons, will be directed inward and downward, and
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 9
OLSSON
ASSOCIATES
Battlement Mesa PUD Phase 11— BMC L
Ursa Operating Company and Battlement Mesa Land Investments Parcel 1 016-3531
be shielded to prevent direct reflection on adjacent property and residences in the area. LED
lights will be used when possible and practical. Workers will be advised when moving light plants
to ensure that the light is focused directly on the work being done. Drilling mast lighting will be
downcast and shielded to reduce fugitive light outside the well pad. Safety considerations will take
precedence.
During the production phase, all lights will be directed inward and downward, towards the interior
of the site and away from residences.
Above ground facilities will be painted to blend with the environment to minimize visual impacts.
If a nuisance complaint is received on a location for noise, odor, dust, or other nuisances, Ursa's
standard operating practice is to respond to each complaint as soon as possible. The person
receiving the complaint, usually the Landman, gathers as much information (such as wind
direction, time, duration, strength, nature of odor or noise, etc.) about the issue as possible. This
information is relayed to the operations lead who begin to determine the source of the issue and
what may be causing it. Once the root cause of the issue is identified, the team determines
mitigation efforts that will help remedy the concern(s). The land team follows up with the
stakeholders on the effectiveness of the mitigation efforts and adjustments are made as
necessary. All complaints are logged and tracked to improve Ursa's overall best management
practices (BMP) performance on existing and future assets. Ursa has implemented a Stakeholder
Hotline for concerns and complaints that will be answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week by
a designated Ursa staff member. The number is 970-620-2787. Ursa also has a 24/7 emergency
hotline, 855-625-9922.
The construction of the BMC L well pad will be limited to the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, except
for emergencies and episodic events beyond Ursa's control. Per the SUA, there are no time of
day restrictions regarding drilling, completing, re -completing, workover, or reservoir fracture
stimulation operations. Drilling will occur continuously 24 hours a day. Well completion activity will
be limited to between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm as an added BMP. Once the wells are in production,
vehicle trips to the pad will be limited to the hours of 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, except for emergencies
and episodic events beyond Ursa's control.
May 19, 2017, revised July 14, 2017 10
OLSSON
ASSOCIATES