Overview
Harvard - North Pure Gold 4 Federal No3 is an operational oil extraction facility located 18 miles northeast of Loving, New Mexico, in Eddy County. It operates within the Permian Basin, one of the most productive oil regions in the United States.
Harvard - North Pure Gold 4 Federal No3 is an oil extraction facility located in the Permian Basin of southeastern New Mexico, approximately 18 miles northeast of Loving in Eddy County. The facility is operational and contributes to the region's significant crude oil production, which is a key component of U.S. domestic energy supply. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Oil Conservation Division (NM OCD). Oil extraction in this area typically involves horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to access tight oil formations. The Permian Basin is known for its high productivity, with many wells producing thousands of barrels per day. As part of the Permian Basin's extensive oil infrastructure, this facility plays a role in meeting national energy demands. The region's oil production supports local economies and contributes to the U.S. strategic petroleum reserves. Environmental considerations include water management and methane emission controls, which are regulated under state and federal guidelines.
Environmental context
The facility is situated in the arid Permian Basin, where water scarcity is a key environmental concern. Oil extraction operations require significant water for hydraulic fracturing, and produced water management is critical. The region also faces challenges related to air emissions, including volatile organic compounds and methane, which are regulated under EPA's New Source Performance Standards. Spill prevention and groundwater protection are addressed through state and federal regulations.
Frequently asked questions
The facility is located 18 miles northeast of Loving, in Eddy County, New Mexico, within the Permian Basin.
It is an oil extraction facility that produces crude oil from underground reservoirs using drilling and completion techniques common in the Permian Basin.
The facility is currently operational, contributing to ongoing oil production in the region.
Facilities must comply with EPA regulations such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, as well as state rules from the New Mexico Oil Conservation Division regarding drilling, production, and environmental protection.
Environmental impacts include water usage for hydraulic fracturing, potential groundwater contamination, air emissions, and land disturbance. Regulations aim to mitigate these through permits, monitoring, and best practices.
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