Cotton Draw Unit 153 - Oil Extraction Facility in Loving, New Mexico

Cotton Draw Unit 153 is an oil extraction facility situated in Eddy County, New Mexico, approximately 22 miles southeast of Loving. The facility is part of the Permian Basin, a major oil-producing region that spans West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. As an operational oil extraction site, it contributes to the United States' domestic crude oil supply, supporting energy infrastructure and local economies. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Environment Department. Oil extraction activities are subject to the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and state-level regulations governing drilling, production, and waste management. The Permian Basin is known for its extensive use of hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, which have significantly increased production capacity in recent years. Cotton Draw Unit 153 plays a role in the broader oil supply chain, with crude oil transported via pipelines to refineries and markets. The facility's location in a semi-arid region with sparse population reduces some environmental sensitivities, but water usage and potential groundwater contamination remain key considerations. The facility's operations are part of the United States' strategic energy portfolio, contributing to national energy security.

The facility is located in the Permian Basin, a semi-arid region with limited surface water. Oil extraction in this area involves significant water use for hydraulic fracturing and produced water management. Potential environmental concerns include groundwater contamination from spills or leaks, air emissions from flaring and equipment, and land disturbance from well pads and infrastructure. Regulatory oversight by the EPA and state agencies aims to mitigate these impacts through permitting and monitoring.