SCHLITZ CTB Oil Extraction Facility, Whites City, New Mexico

SCHLITZ CTB is an oil extraction facility situated in the Permian Basin of southeastern New Mexico, approximately 5.3 miles northeast of Whites City in Eddy County. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 211120, which covers crude petroleum extraction. As part of the Permian Basin, it contributes to the region's significant oil production, which has made the United States a global leader in crude oil output. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for waste management. Oil extraction in New Mexico is also subject to state-level regulations from the New Mexico Oil Conservation Division (OCD), which oversees drilling permits, well integrity, and environmental compliance. Typical extraction methods in this area involve horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to access tight oil formations. The Permian Basin is known for its high production volumes and extensive infrastructure, including pipelines and storage facilities. SCHLITZ CTB plays a role in the local economy by supporting employment and energy supply. The facility's location in a semi-arid region with sensitive ecosystems requires careful management of water resources and waste disposal to minimize environmental impact.

The facility is located in the Chihuahuan Desert ecoregion, characterized by arid conditions and sensitive habitats. Oil extraction in this area poses risks of groundwater contamination from hydraulic fracturing fluids and produced water, as well as surface spills that could affect local wildlife. The region's limited water resources are a concern, as extraction activities require significant water usage. Regulatory oversight by the EPA and state agencies aims to mitigate these risks through permitting and monitoring requirements.