PIONEER NAT RES - PONDEROSA 22-6 Gas Extraction Facility, Cokedale, Colorado

PIONEER NAT RES - PONDEROSA 22-6 is a gas extraction facility situated in Las Animas County, Colorado, approximately 6.2 miles northwest of Cokedale. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS codes 211111 and 211130, indicating crude petroleum and natural gas extraction. Its location in the Raton Basin places it within a region known for coalbed methane and conventional gas production. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which governs pipeline safety for natural gas. As a gas extraction site, it likely includes wellheads, separators, and gathering lines to process raw gas before transmission. The Raton Basin's geology involves shallow coal seams, requiring specialized extraction techniques such as dewatering and pressure management. This facility contributes to Colorado's natural gas supply, supporting local energy needs and regional grid stability. Its proximity to the Spanish Peaks and rural communities underscores the importance of safety measures and environmental monitoring. The operational status ensures ongoing production, with typical risks including methane leakage and water usage, managed through state and federal oversight.

The facility is located in a semi-arid region of southern Colorado, characterized by grasslands and piñon-juniper woodlands. Proximity to populated areas like Cokedale and Trinidad requires careful management of air emissions and water resources. The area is prone to occasional drought and wildfire risk, which can impact operations. Seismic activity is low, but the region's coalbed methane extraction involves groundwater management to prevent subsidence and contamination.