Overview
Plains Exploration & Production operates an oil extraction facility in Bakersfield, California, within the Kern County oil fields. This operational site contributes to the region's significant crude oil production.
Plains Exploration & Production is an oil extraction facility located in Bakersfield, California, in the heart of Kern County's prolific oil fields. The facility is operational and plays a role in the local petroleum industry, which is a major economic driver for the region. Kern County is one of the largest oil-producing areas in the United States, with extensive conventional and unconventional oil extraction operations. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which impose stringent emissions standards and operational permits. Oil extraction in California is subject to the Clean Air Act (CAA) and state-specific regulations such as the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The facility's NAICS code 211120 indicates it is involved in crude petroleum extraction, typically using techniques such as drilling and well operation. As part of the broader California oil industry, this facility contributes to the state's energy supply but also faces environmental scrutiny due to emissions and water usage. The region's oil fields are known for their mature infrastructure and ongoing production, with many facilities implementing enhanced oil recovery methods. The facility's location in Bakersfield places it within a dense network of oil-related infrastructure, including refineries and pipelines.
Environmental context
The facility is situated in Kern County, a region with a long history of oil extraction that has led to localized air quality concerns, including volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and particulate matter. The area's semi-arid climate and agricultural land use create potential for water resource conflicts, as oil extraction often requires significant water inputs. Spill risks associated with crude oil handling and transport are managed through state and federal regulations, including the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule.
Frequently asked questions
Plains Exploration & Production is located in Bakersfield, California, in Kern County, one of the largest oil-producing regions in the United States.
This facility is engaged in oil extraction, specifically crude petroleum extraction, as indicated by its NAICS code 211120. It operates wells and related infrastructure to produce crude oil.
The facility is currently operational, contributing to ongoing oil production in the Bakersfield area.
Oil extraction facilities in California must comply with the U.S. Clean Air Act, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and regulations from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the EPA, including emissions limits and spill prevention requirements.
Oil extraction in Kern County can affect local air quality through emissions of VOCs and particulate matter, and may impact water resources due to water usage for extraction processes. Spill risks are managed through regulatory frameworks like the SPCC rule.
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