XTO Energy, Inc. - Thorn 1-34R Gas Extraction Facility, Durango, Colorado

XTO Energy, Inc. - Thorn 1-34R is a gas extraction facility situated in La Plata County, Colorado, approximately 6.2 miles east of Durango. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS codes 211111 and 211130, indicating crude petroleum and natural gas extraction, as well as natural gas liquid extraction. It is part of the extensive gas infrastructure in the United States, which is governed by federal and state regulations. The facility operates within the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which sets safety standards for gas pipelines. In Colorado, additional state-level regulations from the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) apply. The facility's location in the San Juan Basin, a major natural gas producing region, places it in a context of moderate seismic activity and variable climate conditions, including winter snow and summer thunderstorms. Environmentally, the facility's proximity to Durango and the surrounding residential areas necessitates careful management of emissions and safety protocols. The gas extraction process involves drilling and well completion, which can have localized impacts on air quality and water resources. The facility's role in supplying natural gas to the regional grid supports energy needs but also requires adherence to strict environmental and safety standards to mitigate risks.

The facility is located in La Plata County, Colorado, near the city of Durango. The region experiences a semi-arid climate with potential for wildfires and occasional seismic activity. Proximity to populated areas requires robust safety measures to manage risks associated with gas extraction, such as well integrity and fugitive emissions. The San Juan Basin's geological characteristics influence drilling practices and environmental monitoring.