KENAI GAS FIELD PAD 34-31 - Oil Extraction Facility in Soldotna, Alaska

KENAI GAS FIELD PAD 34-31 is an oil extraction facility located at 41605 Sterling Highway in Soldotna, Alaska, within the Kenai Peninsula Borough. The facility is operational and contributes to the region's hydrocarbon production, primarily focusing on natural gas extraction as part of the broader Kenai gas field development. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, as well as state-level regulations from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. Oil extraction in Alaska often involves cold-weather engineering and permafrost considerations, with typical production rates varying widely depending on well characteristics. As part of the Kenai gas field, this pad plays a role in supplying natural gas to local utilities and industrial users in south-central Alaska. The facility's operations are integrated with regional infrastructure, supporting energy needs while adhering to environmental standards designed to protect the sensitive subarctic ecosystem.

The facility is located in a subarctic coastal environment near Cook Inlet, an area known for its diverse marine and terrestrial wildlife. Oil extraction activities in this region must address challenges such as permafrost stability, wildlife migration patterns, and potential spill risks to nearby waterways. Regulatory oversight includes spill prevention and response plans under the Clean Water Act and state requirements.