RAYBAW - CASWELL 23 FED NO 1H Oil Extraction Facility, Maljamar, New Mexico

RAYBAW - CASWELL 23 FED NO 1H is an oil extraction facility situated in Lea County, New Mexico, approximately 3 miles southeast of Maljamar. The facility is part of the broader Permian Basin, a major oil-producing region that spans western Texas and southeastern New Mexico. As an operational oil extraction site, it contributes to the United States' domestic crude oil supply, leveraging advanced drilling and extraction technologies typical of the region. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Oil Conservation Division. Key regulations include the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Clean Water Act (CWA), which govern emissions and water management. The facility's NAICS codes (211111 and 211120) indicate it is involved in crude petroleum extraction and natural gas extraction, respectively. In the Permian Basin, typical extraction methods include horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, which have significantly boosted production in recent years. Environmental considerations for oil extraction in this arid region include water usage, potential groundwater contamination, and air emissions. The facility's location in a sparsely populated area reduces some community exposure risks, but the cumulative impact of numerous wells in the Permian Basin raises concerns about regional air quality and water resources. The facility's role in the national energy supply underscores its importance, while ongoing regulatory developments aim to mitigate environmental impacts.

The facility is located in the Permian Basin, a semi-arid region with limited surface water. Oil extraction here involves significant water use for hydraulic fracturing, which can strain local water resources. Air emissions from drilling and production, including volatile organic compounds and methane, contribute to regional ozone formation. Spills and leaks pose risks to soil and groundwater, though regulatory frameworks like the EPA's New Source Performance Standards aim to reduce emissions and improve well integrity.