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AUSTIN – Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for October 2019 came from 173,371 oil wells and 86,879 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from November 2018 to October 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.438 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.6 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s production data web pages. 

TABLE 1 - October 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - October 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – October 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – October 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – October 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $10,799,103 in fines on 4,232 enforcement dockets involving the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety for calendar year 2019. These include: 

• $50,000 in fines assessed in protested dockets that went to hearing and related to pipeline damage or oil and gas violations;
• $2,951,268 in penalties for Master Default Orders;
• $1,360,010 in fines for Master Agreed Orders; and;
• $6,437,825 for Pipeline Damage Prevention penalties.

Totals include the Commission’s final enforcement actions for 2019, taken Tuesday during the last Commissioners’ conference of the year. On Tuesday, 24 dockets involved$183,382 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings.
Details on this Master Default Order can be found on the RRC website here

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $44,143 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $741,575 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –The Railroad Commission of Texas today released its 2019 Year in Review highlighting the regulatory agency’s accomplishments during the past year. The Year in Review outlines the Commission’s successes in achieving the highest standard of service by modernizing processes, enhancing transparency and exceeding performance expectations. 

Throughout 2019, the Commission enhanced its protection of public safety and our natural resources while maintaining strong regulatory oversight. The Commission plugged orphan wells at an historic rate, launched the RRC Online Inspection Lookup application and began transitioning data from an antiquated mainframe system to a modern, cloud-based platform. The 2019 Year in Review details these accomplishments and many more with video, photos, infographics and links to additional information. The Year in Review can be found here. 

The Commission regulates oil and gas exploration and production, pipeline safety, surface mining, natural gas utilities and alternative fuels. 

The Railroad Commission encourages everyone to share the 2019 Year in Review using the hashtag #TxRRC. 

AUSTIN –The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 958 original drilling permits in November 2019 compared to 933 in November 2018. The November 2019 total included 882 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 10 to re-enter plugged well bores and 66 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 208 oil, 51 gas, 621 oil or gas, 56 injection, two service and 20 other permits. 

In November 2019, Commission staff processed 711 oil, 117 gas, 34 injection and four other completions compared to 794 oil, 151 gas, 36 injection and one other completion in November 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 8,629; down from 10,236 recorded during the same time period in 2018. 

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Nov. 27 was 405, representing about 50 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completion summaries web page.

TABLE 1 – NOVEMBER 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website here.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for September 2019 came from 172,622 oil wells and 87,726 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from October 2018 to September 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.424 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.6 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s Oil & Gas monthly production web page.

TABLE 1 - September 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - September 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

 
TABLE 4 – September 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – September 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – September 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN ––The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 803 original drilling permits in December 2019 compared to 811 in December 2018. The December 2019 total included 743 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 8 to re-enter plugged well bores and 52 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 162 oil, 37 gas, 571 oil or gas, 23 injection, zero service and 10 other permits.

In December 2019, Commission staff processed 491 oil, 98 gas, 17 injection and three other completions compared to 564 oil, 156 gas, 27 injection and three other completions in December 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 9,238; down from 10,986 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Jan. 3 was 403, representing about 51 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completion summaries web page. 

TABLE 1 – DECEMBER 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website here.

The day after I was elected to the Railroad Commission of Texas, it was announced that the largest find of oil and natural gas in history was assessed in West Texas. In the three years since that announcement, projected totals for this find have continued to grow.

While I was in Houston last week I heard a new projection showing that “the Permian Basin holds more than 230 billion barrels of oil equivalent and within this estimate exists more than 600 trillion cubic feet of remaining natural gas resource.” To put that in perspective, proven oil reserves in the entire United States just ten years ago were 20.6 billion barrels of oil — less than a tenth of what is now projected in West Texas.

The United States is now the largest producer of oil and natural gas in the world, producing a record 12.4 million barrels in August. Meanwhile, environmentally, the six major pollutants in America monitored by the EPA have plunged by 73 percent since 1970, while the U.S. economy grew 262 percent and its population by 60 percent.(2)

This is huge news for Texas and America. Because of domestic production, we are no longer reliant on other nations for our energy, giving us a new sense of national security.

This is not the first time Texas energy has had an impact on global dynamics.

In World War I, Eastland County, Texas and the “Roaring Ranger” production was essential to the Allied victory. When the armistice was signed in 1918, a member of the British War Cabinet declared, “The Allied cause floated to victory upon a wave of oil.”

In World War II, seven of the eight billion barrels of oil used to win the war came from the United States. Much of this oil was transported by the Big Inch and Little Inch pipeline from Kilgore, Texas from the largest oil field in history at the time. Winston Churchill at the end of the war said that the war was won on a sea of East Texas oil.

Today — Texas once again has the opportunity to make the world a safer and more prosperous place because of the natural resources we have been blessed with underground. The only question is, will we stand up to the extremists on the left that want us to abandon this opportunity and keep it in the ground. Keep this in mind as we approach the 2020 elections.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $945,939 in fines involving 457 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Twenty-six dockets involved $59,500 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $101,739 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $784,700 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for August 2019 came from 176,054 oil wells and 88,823 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from September 2018 to August 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.427 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.5 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s Oil & Gas monthly production web page.

TABLE 1 - August 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - August 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – August 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – August 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

 TABLE 6 – August 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN ––The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 971 original drilling permits in October 2019 compared 1,149 in October 2018. The October 2019 total included 895 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 13 to re-enter plugged well bores and 63 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 249 oil, 39 gas, 608 oil or gas, 61 injection, three service and 11 other permits.

In October 2019, Commission staff processed 537 oil, 117 gas, 29 injection and six other completions compared to 987 oil, 170 gas, 49 injection and seven other completions in October 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 7,763; down from 9,254 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Nov.1 was 416, representing about 51 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completion summaries web page.

TABLE 1 – OCTOBER 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website here.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $430,104 in fines involving 262 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $62,304 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $367,800 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC), today unveiled updates to its logo that preserve the legacy of Texas’ oldest regulatory agency, while better reflecting its modern duties and responsibilities.  

“The RRC is an historic brand in Texas and we want to preserve that part of our history. It’s also a brand recognized around the world as the global leader in energy regulation,” said Chairman Wayne Christian. “Since the Commission is the lead agency in Texas working to ensure safe, responsible production and transportation of our energy resources, this new logo better communicates to Texans exactly who we are, and what we do to serve them.” 

The logo is the latest initiative in the RRC’s efforts to increase transparency. Earlier this year, the agency launched the RRC Online Inspection Lookup (RRC OIL) found here.  RRC OIL allows anyone to search online inspection and violation data for oil and gas leases, wells, facilities, and other sites. 

The RRC will phase in use of the new logo as new materials are purchased. A copy of the new logo is shown below:

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for July 2019 came from 175,101 oil wells and 89,068 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from August 2018 to July 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.403 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.4 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s monthly Oil & Gas Production web page

TABLE 1 - July 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - July 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – July 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – July 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – July 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN ––The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 796 original drilling permits in September 2019 compared 974 in September 2018. The September 2019 total included 733 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 11 to re-enter plugged well bores and 52 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 197 oil, 56 gas, 474 oil or gas, 59 injection, zero service and 10 other permits.

In September 2019, Commission staff processed 583 oil, 137 gas, 25 injection and two other completions compared to 553 oil, 129 gas, 60 injection and two other completions in September 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 7,074; down from 8,041 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Oct. 4 was 414, representing about 48 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completion summaries web page.

TABLE 1 – SEPTEMBER 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website here.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission’s Alternative Fuels Licensing section set a record in Fiscal Year 2019 (Sept. 1, 2018 – Aug. 31, 2019) by issuing more than 7,300 licenses. Additionally, the Commission also set a record by registering almost 5,600 trucks to distribute liquefied petroleum gas (propane), compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquified natural gas (LNG) in FY 19.

RRC’s Alternative Fuels section protects public safety by overseeing operators’ compliance with Commission rules on propane, CNG and LNG. Companies installing, transporting, dispensing and selling alternative fuels must be licensed with the Commission. Individuals performing activities with alternative fuels must be certified by the Commission and all alternative fuel installations must be installed in accordance with the Commission rules.

“I’m extremely proud of our staff’s hard work,” said April Richardson, director of the Commission’s Alternative Fuels Safety Department. “Not only did we set records for ensuring operators are properly trained and licensed to protect public safety, but we did it with a shortage of personnel when two experienced licensing specialists retired. Fortunately, two new licensing specialists were quickly hired, trained and completed their tasks well ahead of schedule.”

Other highlights in FY 19 include:

Inspections:

• Performed a record-breaking number of inspections—almost 19,000—exceeding the Texas Legislature’s performance measure of 17,000 inspections for FY 19.

Training:

• Administered a higher number of exams than ever—almost 6,640 and renewed a record-breaking number of renewals for all certificate holders—more than 16,000.
• Provided nearly 3,000 hours of training for LP-gas (propane) certifications.
• Developed a pilot LP-gas online training class at the end of FY 19 and will be implementing LP-gas online classes statewide during FY 20. 

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $319,693 in fines involving 175 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Seven dockets involved $53,767 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $24,176 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $241,750 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN — Starting today, Oct. 2, certification classes and exams are no longer available at the Railroad Commission of Texas’ Austin Alternative Fuels Training Facility at 6506 Bolm Road. Classes and exams will resume Oct. 21 at the new Austin training facility located at 4044 Promontory Point. 

Classes and exams remain available at other locations around Texas, which can be found here.

Contact information for RRC’s Alternative Fuels training remains the same at: 512-463-2682 and training-exams@rrc.texas.gov .

“The new training facility will provide more than double the space for students with two classrooms instead of the one classroom we had at the former site,” said April Richardson, RRC Alternative Fuels Safety Director. “Our student capacity will increase from 21 to 53 students at the new site.”

RRC’s Alternative Fuels section protects public safety by overseeing operators’ compliance with Commission rules on liquefied petroleum gas (propane) compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Companies installing, transporting, dispensing and selling alternative fuels must be licensed with the Commission. Individuals performing activities with alternative fuels must be certified by the Commission and all alternative fuel installations must be installed in accordance with the Commission rules.

AUSTIN– The Railroad Commission in Fiscal Year 2019 (Sept. 1, 2018 – Aug. 31, 2019) assessed and cleaned up more than 400 abandoned oil field sites. This was more than double the performance measure goal set by the Texas Legislature to assess and clean up 188 abandoned sites in FY 2019. 

Most operators clean up their own oilfield sites when the wells are no longer productive. To protect land and water resources, the Commission uses industry fees paid into the Oil & Gas Regulation & Cleanup Fund to clean up abandoned sites through the State-Managed Cleanup Program. These fees include regulatory fees, permit fees, enforcement penalties and bond amounts assessed on oil and gas operators.

“The Commission set a very aggressive goal to assess and clean up more sites in FY 19,” said Wei Wang RRC’s Executive Director.

“And our staff worked very hard to achieve this milestone. State-Managed Cleanup is one of many programs that support our agency’s priority of protecting public safety and the environment.”

Additional RRC Site Remediation section highlights in FY 19 include:

• Completed 415 cleanup activities in FY 19, up from 228 cleanup activities in FY 18.
• Identified 2,316 potential sites that are candidates for the State Managed Cleanup Fund in FY 19 compared to 2,159 sites identified as candidates in FY 18.

Since the State-Managed Cleanup Program was established in 1992, the RRC has assessed, investigated — and if cleanup was determined necessary — completed cleanup activities at 6,821 abandoned oilfield sites across Texas restoring land used in energy production back to a safe condition.

AUSTIN– The Railroad Commission in Fiscal Year 2019 (Sept. 1, 2018 – Aug. 31, 2019) completed more than 133,000 oil and gas inspections, exceeding the Texas Legislature’s performance goal of 130,000 inspections for the fiscal year. The RRC’s Oil & Gas Division also filled a record number of 170 oil and gas inspector positions statewide. 

RRC regulates the exploration and production activities of crude oil and natural gas to protect public safety and the environment. The main categories of inspections performed include responding to incidents and complaints; conducting routine well inspections; and witnessing critical well operations including setting surface casing to protect groundwater, mechanical integrity tests and pluggings.

“As these numbers demonstrate, our field staff is committed to strong monitoring over the state’s oil and gas operators so Texans can have confidence that their energy is produced safely,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC’s Oil and Gas Division Director.

“As the increased energy activity continues in Texas, I am proud of the hard work by our inspectors and supporting staff in our nine district offices statewide.”

Additional RRC Oil & Gas Division highlights in FY 19 include: 

• Total oil and gas inspections increased to 133,187 in FY 19 compared to 130,064 inspections in FY 18.
• Oil and gas inspector positions increased to 172 in FY 19 up from 158 in FY 18.
• The agency reduced the inventory of wells not inspected in the last five years to 13 percent in FY 19 down from 32 percent in FY 18.

Oil and gas operators are required comply with RRC rules found at the link below:

https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=4&ti=16&pt=1&ch=3&rl=Y

In FY 19, the Commission also launched RRC OIL (Online Inspection Lookup), allowing the public and oil and gas operators to lookup inspection and violation data recorded during inspections of oil and gas leases, wells, facilities and other sites. The online query can be found here.

PASADENA — Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton gave the lunchtime keynote address at the Gulf Coast Industry Forum, which brought together cities, counties, port authorities and hundreds of energy industry professionals to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the Gulf Coast energy industry. 

“If you’re a kid growing up in Texas today, you’re in high school and you’re about to go to college, and you ask your Mom and Dad, ‘Where are the opportunities? It is hard not to point at energy and say, ‘We’re going to be a leader in energy for a long time’.” Sitton said. “And not just for those who work in the energy business. I’m talking about those who work in transportation. Or in technology. Or in manufacturing for whom energy is their largest single cost except for people. They get an advantage versus all of their overseas competitors because our energy is so affordable, and so reliable, That’s the opportunity in Texas,” concluded Sitton. 

Sitton also discussed his vision of leadership and decried the divisiveness that infests much of our public discourse.

Photo: Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton addresses the 2019 Gulf Coast Industry Forum

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission in Fiscal Year 2019 (Sept. 1, 2018 – Aug. 31, 2019) plugged more than 1,700 abandoned wells. This exceeded the performance measure goal set by the Texas Legislature to plug 979 abandoned wells in FY 2019. 

Most operators plug their own wells when the wells are no longer productive. To protect land and water resources, the Commission uses industry fees paid into the Oil & Gas Regulation and Cleanup Fund to plug abandoned wells. No Texas taxpayer dollars are used.

“In FY 2018, we began a very aggressive effort to increase the number of abandoned wells the agency plugs every year,” RRC Executive Director Wei Wang said.

“In FY 18, we plugged 1,364 abandoned wells. Combining that total with the 1,710 wells plugged this fiscal year, we have plugged more than 3,000 abandoned wells in the FY 2018-19 biennium greatly exceeding the Legislative goal set for our agency to plug more than 1,900 wells over this two-year period.”

Since the state-managed well plugging program was established in 1984, the RRC has plugged more than 39,500 abandoned wells across Texas restoring land used in energy production back to a safe condition.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission in Fiscal Year 2019 (Sept. 1, 2018 – Aug. 31, 2019) completed more than 4,800 pipeline safety inspections and issued more than 2,500 citations for violations. The RRC’s Pipeline Safety Department also filled a record number of pipeline safety inspector positions, reaching an all-time high of 69 for staff deployed statewide to ensure pipelines under the agency’s jurisdiction are constructed, operated and maintained in compliance with state and federal rules. 

“Protection of public safety and our environment is our highest priority,” said Stephanie Weidman, director of RRC’s Pipeline Safety section.

“Thanks to support from the 86^th Texas Legislature, we boosted our inspector numbers from 63 in Fiscal Year 2018 to 70 positions in FY 19. This will help us keep pace with the state’s new pipeline infrastructure being constructed to transport Texas’ booming oil and gas production.” 

Additional pipeline safety highlights in FY 19 include:

•   Total pipeline inspections increased to 4,801 in FY 19, up from 3,294 inspections in FY 18. Inspections increased in both categories of inspections.

             o   Standard and comprehensive inspections increased to 3,086 in FY 19 from 2,323 in FY 18.

             o   Accident and special investigations increased to 1,715 in FY 19 from 971 in FY 18. 

•    Pipeline inspectors cited 2,527 rule violations in FY 19 compared to 2,444 cited violations in FY 18.

Operators of intrastate pipelines (pipelines that begin and end in the state) are required comply with RRC pipeline safety rules found at the link below:

http://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=4&ti=16&pt=1&ch=8

Along with inspections, the regulatory process at the RRC requires intrastate pipeline operators to obtain a T-4 permit from the Commission.

In addition to enforcing pipeline safety rules, the Commission also enforces Underground Pipeline Damage Prevention rules found at:

https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=4&ti=16&pt=1&ch=18&rl=Y

These rules require Texans to call 811 before digging 16 inches or deeper to have underground pipelines marked. Marking prevents pipeline accidents and damage. Pipeline operators and excavators found in violation of these rules resulted in 3,432 excavation damage enforcement cases in FY 2019, an increase from 2,774 excavation damage enforcement cases in FY 2018.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $459,784 in fines involving 177 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference last week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Seven dockets involved $105,955 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $24,379 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $329,450 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 960 original drilling permits in August 2019 compared 1,110 in August 2018. The August 2019 total included 865 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, eight to re-enter plugged well bores and 87 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 229 oil, 49 gas, 605 oil or gas, 50 injection, two service and 15 other permits. 

In August 2019, Commission staff processed 446 oil, 103 gas, 27 injection and two other completions compared to 601 oil, 123 gas, 56 injection and three other completions in August 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 6,327; down from 7,297 recorded during the same time period in 2018. 

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Sept. 6 was 438, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s Drilling Completion Summaries web page. 

TABLE 1 – AUGUST 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available here, on the Railroad Commission of Texas website.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for June 2019 came from 177,420 oil wells and 89,539 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from July 2018 to June 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.396 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.3 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s Oil & Gas Production Data web page. 

TABLE 1 - June 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - June 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – June 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – June 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – June 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

MEDORA, ND – The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC) this week passed Railroad Commission Chairman Wayne Christian’s (R – Texas) resolution urging the federal government to oppose the Green New Deal in the spirit of cooperative federalism. 

You can read the Chairman’s resolution here.

“Last week, Senator Bernie Sanders unveiled his $16.3 trillion Green New Deal plan which would cripple our state's economy by banning the extraction of fossil fuels,” said Christian.

“As a statewide elected official charged with overseeing our state's natural resource development, it is my duty to stand up for Texas' Tenth Amendment Rights.” 

While discussing the resolution, Christian emphasized that the United States has some of the cleanest air in the world. From 1970 - 2017, the six major pollutants monitored by the EPA have plunged by 73 percent, while the U.S. economy grew by 262 percent and its population by 60 percent. 

"Over my dead body will I allow out-of-state forces to eliminate jobs, decrease state revenue, and increase the cost of living on the constituents I represent," continued Christian. "I am proud to stand with my fellow regulators from across the nation and strongly urge the federal government to oppose the Green New Deal."

According to the action plan, IOGCC will send copies of the resolution to the President, Vice President, key administration officials, and Congressional leaders to encourage them to oppose the Green New Deal and any substantially similar legislation. 

To see and hear Chairman Christian explain the resolution, click here.

The IOGCC is a multi-state government agency that works to ensure our nation's oil and natural gas resources are conserved and maximized while protecting public health, safety and the environment. IOGCC was created more than 80 years ago when six states joined together to resolve common issues and share best practices for industry regulation, minimizing federal intervention. Christian was appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott as Texas’ official representative to IOGCC in April 2017 and currently serves on several committees, including as second vice-chairman of the Steering Committee. 

MEDORA, N.D. – The Railroad Commission of Texas is the winner of the 2019 Chairman’s Stewardship Award for Energy Education from the Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission. The award is in recognition of the Commission’s RRC Online Inspection Lookup (RRC OIL) tool. For the first time in the Commission’s history anyone, anywhere can look up the inspection and enforcement history of oil and gas wells and operators online. The searchable database provides 24-hour, 7-day a week access to this important information.

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum presented the award to RRC’s Executive Director Wei Wang and Clay Woodul, Assistant Director for Oil and Gas Field Operations, today at the IOGCC’s Annual Conference in Medora, N.D.

“We are proud and honored to receive this prestigious award,” RRC Chairman Wayne Christian said.

“It is recognition of our continuing efforts to educate the public about how we regulate the state’s oil and gas industry to ensure safe, responsible energy production.

IOGCC is a national organization comprised of the governors from oil and gas producing states, including Texas, and has international affiliate members from Canada, Egypt and the Republic of Georgia. IOGCC helps member states efficiently maximize oil and natural gas resources through sound regulatory practices while protecting the nation's health, safety and environment.

“This award represents IOGCC's highest honor for exemplary efforts in environmental stewardship,” said Lori Wrotenbery, IOGCC Executive Director. “The RRC OIL project won the award for giving landowners and others access to real-time information on inspection and enforcement activities at oil and gas well sites.”

The Commission launched RRC Oil in January 2019. The online tool provides inspection and enforcement information, including notices of violation as well as intensions to sever leases, which effectively prohibit oil or gas from leaving a well site.

“The Commission conducts more than 130,000 oil and gas inspections annually,” RRC Executive Director Wei Wang said.

“RRC OIL allows the public and operators to look up the compliance history of wells throughout Texas. This is another significant step forward to increase transparency at the Commission.”

Users may access RRC OIL 24/7 and can customize inspection and violation searches by a variety of criteria, including; 

• Operator name;
• Lease name or number;
• API number;
• County;
• RRC District Oil and Gas District number;
• Inspection date range, and;
• Rule.

RRC OIL accesses inspection and enforcement data entered into the RRC’s Inspection, Compliance, Enforcement Electronic Tracking System, which was implemented in August 2015.

RRC OIL is available here.

Left to right: Clay Woodul, RRC Oil and Gas Division, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director

Chairman's Stewardship Award 2019

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,264,033 in fines involving 439 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Eighty-seven dockets involved $424,539 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $14,294 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $825,200 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 912 original drilling permits in July 2019 compared 1,153 in July 2018. The July 2019 total included 836 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, eight to re-enter plugged well bores and 68 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 212 oil, 58 gas, 537 oil or gas, 93 injection, three service and nine other permits. 

In July 2019, Commission staff processed 499 oil, 156 gas, 42 injection and two other completions compared to 753 oil, 157 gas, 29 injection and one other completion in July 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 5,749; down from 6,514 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of Aug. 9 was 454, representing about 50 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s  monthly drilling completion summaries web page 

TABLE 1 – JULY 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website 

# # #

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for May 2019 came from 177,644 oil wells and 89,952 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from June 2018 to May 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.388 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.2 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s monthly Oil & Gas production webpage 

TABLE 1 - May 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - May 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – May 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – May 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – May 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $864,689 in fines involving 270 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

One docket involved $6,202 in penalties after an operator failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on this Master Default Order can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $315,187 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $543,300 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – ICYMI, check out what Railroad Commission Chairman Wayne Christian has to say about flaring in Texas oilfields this week in an op-ed published July 30 in USA Today. 

While it is always preferable for natural gas be used for its intended purpose of providing cheap, dependable energy, flaring is an important part of America’s rise to energy dominance. Instead of venting gas into the air, flaring is a safer environmental option and prevents pollution by burning gas, Chairman Christian notes in his USA Today op-ed, which can be read here.

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 1,001 original drilling permits in June 2019 compared 1,230 in June 2018. The June 2019 total included 905 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 10 to re-enter plugged well bores and 86 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 240 oil, 69 gas, 613 oil or gas, 74 injection, zero service and five other permits. 

In June 2019, Commission staff processed 632 oil, 182 gas, 61 injection and two other completions compared to 914 oil, 158 gas, 48 injection and four other completions in June 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 5,050; down from 5,574 recorded during the same time period in 2018. 

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of July 3 was 463, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s Drilling Information webpage 

TABLE 1 – June 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website .

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for April 2019 came from 176,879 oil wells and 88,240 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from May 2018 to April 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.358 billion barrels of crude oil and 9.0 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s Oil & Gas production webpage. 

TABLE 1 - April 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - April 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – April 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – April 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – April 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $939,780 in fines involving 288 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Thirty-six dockets involved $514,280 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $38,250 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $387,250 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – At an open meeting of the Railroad Commission of Texas, Commissioner Wayne Christian was unanimously elected Chairman. Following the vote, Christian released the following statement: 

“It has been the honor of my life to serve on the Railroad Commission during this historic period of growth for our state’s oil and gas industry,” said Christian. “Largely because of Texas, America has become the largest producer of oil and gas in the world, giving us not only energy security, but national security as well.” 

“At the same time we have seen tremendous growth in the industry, we have seen great gains environmentally,” continued Christian. “From 1970 to 2017, the six major pollutants monitored by the EPA plunged by 73%, while the U.S. economy grew 262% and its population by 60%.”

 “As Chairman, I look forward to continuing to ensure our agency provides a consistent, predictable regulatory environment that allows businesses to thrive and protects the public from bad actors,” said Christian. “I would like to thank Commissioners Craddick and Sitton for their service and entrusting me with this honor.” 

After the open meeting, Former Chairwoman Craddick made the following statement: “I look forward to Chairman Christian’s leadership. His service to Texas and his appreciation of the industry makes him a great leader for this agency.” 

See the letter Christian sent to staff here.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for March 2019 came from 174,582 oil wells and 89,335 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from April 2018 to March 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.345 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.9 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s monthly Oil & Gas production webpage .

TABLE 1 - March 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - March 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

 
TABLE 4 – March 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – March 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – March 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $592,569 in fines involving 182 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Nine dockets involved $144,393 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $217,726 for oil and gas, LP-Gas or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $230,450 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here . 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton today released his 2019 Energy Market Outlook. The Outlook is an in-depth analysis of current global energy markets and predictions for the remainder of the year and into 2020. With more than 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, and as the first engineer to serve on the Commission in 50 years, Sitton has spent his career carefully studying global energy markets. 

“Texas is shattering previous energy production records, leading the nation by far. It is more important than ever to keep an eye on activity and use sound economic fundamentals to drive decisions about where we should dedicate resources,” Sitton said. “Understanding where the market is headed helps inform what we do as regulators at the Railroad Commission, allowing us to better plan and prepare for increased permit activity, inspection and monitoring requirements and other resource demands on the Commission. This analysis makes clear that the Texas energy industry is well positioned but infrastructure investment is still needed to ensure we realize our full potential.” 

The report examines crude oil, natural gas, and key environmental trends related to energy markets, such as emissions and flaring information. It is based on both historical data from various resources, including the International Energy Agency and U.S. Energy Information Administration, as well as extrapolated data from Sitton’s analysis. 

Commissioner Sitton has consistently advocated for enhanced energy transportation infrastructure as key to Texas capitalizing on its energy opportunities. With the growing demand for U.S. and specifically Texas energy, as detailed in the 2019 Energy Market Outlook, more pipelines and enhanced ports are imperative to ensure our ability to safely and efficiently transport Texas energy to the world. 

The 2019 Energy Market Outlook is available for download here. 

(Note: Commissioner Sitton’s political disclaimer is included on this report because campaign dollars will be used to print hard copies for interested Texans. The RRC does not have a budget to print reports such as this and campaign dollars can be used for official purposes under Texas campaign finance laws.) 

AUSTIN – Railroad Commission Chairman Christi Craddick today thanked the 86th Texas Legislature for prioritizing the important role the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) plays in keeping the state’s citizens and natural resources safe. The Legislature’s FY 2020-2021 budget includes increased funding for the RRC to strengthen the agency’s inspection and enforcement capabilities, as well as increases transparency for the public.

“The Texas oil and gas industry continues to lead the world in energy production. We appreciate that the Legislature recognizes that it is critical for the Railroad Commission to have the resources necessary to protect the citizens, environment and economy of Texas,” Craddick said.

“By prioritizing funding for the Railroad Commission, the Legislature has given us the tools we need to maintain a predictable regulatory environment that will continue to attract jobs and capital investment across Texas,” Craddick said. “Texas oil and gas producers generate billions of dollars for state and local tax coffers, lowering Texan’s overall tax burden while providing critical funding for schools, roads and water infrastructure. We, at the Commission, are proud to serve Texas to work to ensure the safe production of our natural resources.”

House Bill 1 appropriates approximately $283.6 million for the biennium, including an increase of 22 FTEs.

The funding includes the following items, with a focus on additional staff inspectors and IT program upgrades:

• 22 new oil and gas and pipeline safety inspectors;
• $26.9 million to replace antiquated mainframe permitting system;
• $39.1 million to fund a robust well plugging and site remediation program;

House Bill 1 is currently pending the Governor’s signature into law.

Christi Craddick was reelected statewide by the people of Texas in November 2018 to serve as Texas Railroad Commissioner. A native of Midland, Christi is an attorney specializing in oil and gas, water, tax issues, electric deregulation and environmental policy.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $301,069 in fines involving 163 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Four operators were assessed $61,331 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $31,613 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $208,125 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders. 

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 909 original drilling permits in April 2019 compared 1,221 in April 2018. The April 2019 total included 802 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 14 to re-enter plugged well bores and 93 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 212 oil, 62 gas, 574 oil or gas, 45 injection, two service and 14 other permits. 

In April 2019, Commission staff processed 593 oil, 143 gas, 36 injection and three other completions compared to 616 oil, 134 gas, 48 injection and four other completions in April 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 3,244; down from 3,514 recorded during the same time period in 2018. 

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of May 3 was 484, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

TABLE 1 – April 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $302,152 in fines involving 152 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

One operators was assessed $52,000 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $55,577 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $194,575 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders. 

 AUSTIN – A Texas coal company recognized by Railroad Commissioners for transforming mined acreage into wildlife habitat has now received a national award. The Interstate Mining Compact Commission selected the Sabine Mining Co. for its Annual National Mine Reclamation Award in the Coal Category. 

Sabine Mining Co. received the IMCC award for restoring more than 3,400 contiguous acres of Harrison County mined land into native grass habitat for bobwhite quail, grassland songbirds, Monarch butterflies, pollinating insects and grazing livestock. In February, the RRC presented the Sabine Mining Co. with its 2019 Reclamation Award and nominated the operator for this national award. 

“Sabine’s efforts to improve wildlife habitat and livestock forage by using native grasses demonstrates the company’s dedication to responsible mining and reclamation,” IMCC Executive Director Thomas L. Clarke said. 

Sabine Mining Company stated in its award application to the RRC, “The Sabine Mining Co. believed that reclamation can and should be synonymous with restoration—restoration of habitat, restoration of ecosystems and is doing just that by ‘Going Native’ through the use of native grasses.” 

The restored acreage south of Hallsville is part of the South Hallsville No. 1 Mine, a lignite surface mine which has been in continuous operation since 1984. Since its beginning, reclamation has been ongoing at the RRC-permitted mine that encompasses 44,401 acres. The operator replanted native grasses to provide habitat for a diversity of species, increased wildlife populations and higher nutrition for grazing livestock.

The Sabine Mining Co., whose parent company is North American Coal Corp., operates the South Hallsville No. 1 Mine and the adjacent Rusk Mine. These two mines have 284 full-time employees and more than 40 contractors, who assist with maintenance, reclamation and other projects.

The mines produce approximately 4 million tons of lignite annually, which generates electricity in Texas at the H.W. Pirkey Power Plant. This plant is owned and operated by the Southwestern Electric Power Co. – a division of American Electric Power.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for February 2019 came from 176,327 oil wells and 88,212 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from March 2018 to February 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.332 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.9 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s Oil & Gas production webpage 

HOUSTON – Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton spoke to the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Wednesday afternoon. Commissioner Sitton stressed the Bay Area’s critical and central role in Texas’ energy dominance. Commissioner Sitton also spoke on his goal of keeping energy reliable, affordable and as clean as possible. 

“Texas energy innovation fuels freedom,” Commissioner Sitton said. “More reliable energy keeps our economy going. More affordable energy helps everyone, and it helps those whose family and business budgets are tightest the most. Clean energy is the responsible path forward and helps keep our environment sustainable for future generations.” 

Commissioner Sitton spoke about his personal story growing up the son of two teachers in Irving, putting himself through college at Texas A&M, becoming an engineer and founding a successful business before entering public service. 

Ryan Sitton is an inventor, successful entrepreneur and energy expert. He and his wife Jennifer founded PinnacleART in 2006, which employs more than 900 Texans today and is a recognized global leader in reliability and safety. He was elected to the Railroad Commission in 2014. 

The Texas Railroad Commission regulates oil and gas development in the Lone Star State.

DALLAS– Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton has a double-header speaking role at EarthX 2019. He will address the opening ceremony and deliver remarks on LNG exports. Both appearances occur on Friday. 

What:                         Commissioner Ryan Sitton addresses EarthX Opening Ceremony     

When:                         Friday, April 26, 2019, 11 to 11:30 AM

Where:                       Court of Honor, Fair Park

What:                         Commissioner Ryan Sitton speaks on LNG exports                    

When:                         Friday, April 26, 2019, 1:30 to 1:45 PM

Where:                       Automotive Building, Fair Park

 
Commissioner Sitton will be available to speak with media on site. For interested media, please reach out to Public Affairs Director Bryan Preston, 410-967-3207.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $533,694 in fines involving 157 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Operators were assessed $234,539 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $110,780 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $188,375 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 1,137 original drilling permits in March 2019 compared 1,220 in March 2018. The March 2019 total included 1,005 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 14 to re-enter plugged well bores and 118 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 315 oil, 69 gas, 688 oil or gas, 56 injection, one service and eight other permits. 

In March 2019, Commission staff processed 493 oil, 127 gas, 43 injection and two other completions compared to 656 oil, 173 gas, 35 injection and three other completions in March 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 2,469; down from 2,712 recorded during the same time period in 2018. 

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of April 5 was 499, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States. 

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completions webpage.

TABLE 1– March 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $203,375 in fines involving 150 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $203,375 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here.

 In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for January 2019 came from 175,056 oil wells and 89,379 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from February 2018 to January 2019, total Texas reported production was 1.310 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.8 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the Commission’s monthly Oil & Gas production webpage .

TABLE 1 - JANUARY 2019 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - JANUARY 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

 (more)

TABLE 1 – January 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 2 – January 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

(more)

TABLE 3 – January 2019 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $520,394 in fines involving 321 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $116,394 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $404,000 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for December 2018 came from 179,434 oil wells and 89,562 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from January 2018 to December 2018, total Texas reported production was 1.281 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.6 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the Commission’s monthly Oil & Gas production webpage. 

TABLE 1 – DECEMBER 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 – DECEMBER 2017 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – DECEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – DECEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – DECEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 961 original drilling permits in February 2019 compared 1,097 in February 2018. The February 2019 total included 887 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, seven to re-enter plugged well bores and 67 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 246 oil, 54 gas, 597 oil or gas, 60 injection, zero service and four other permits.

In February 2019, Commission staff processed 584 oil, 175 gas, 21 injection and four other completions compared to 672 oil, 149 gas, 56 injection and five other completions in February 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 1,804; down from 1,845 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of March 8 was 502, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling summaries webpage.

TABLE 1 – FEBRUARY 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $589,537 in fines involving 199 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Operators were assessed $200,701 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $147,911 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $240,925 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

Austin, TX – In anticipation of high electricity demand across Texas this summer, key state agencies are taking steps now to ensure reliable electric service for all Texans. The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC), the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC), and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) are working together to make sure gas-fueled power plants have the natural gas they need for electricity generation.

“We applaud our industries for collaborating on solutions that will keep Texans cool and our economy humming during the blistering summer months,” said Christi Craddick, Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission.

“Texas has more than enough natural gas to fuel power generation, we must make sure it can get where it’s needed, when it is needed and that requires coordination between gas pipelines companies, electric generation facilities and our grid operator.”

“Thanks to our state’s robust economy and growing population, the demand for electricity is growing steadily,” said PUC Chairman DeAnn Walker. “With gas-fueled electric generation plants making up more than 50 percent of the generation capacity in ERCOT, we must ensure they are able to produce electricity during times of peak demand.”

Representatives of the electric and gas industries have been working for months in conjunction with the PUC, RRC, and ERCOT (which oversees roughly 90% of the electric load in Texas) to improve coordination. As the winter heating season winds down and summertime high temperatures loom just a few months away, companies should focus on finalizing their preparations for the summer, including scheduling maintenance around periods of expected high demand.

To engage companies across the state in this vital effort, the Railroad Commission and Public Utility Commission issued this notice to natural gas pipeline operators, electric generation operators, and electric utilities, urging them to finalize their coordinated preparations for the summer and maintain clear lines of communication as the summer progresses.  Staff from the Railroad Commission, Public Utility Commission, and ERCOT will continue to work closely with the companies and industries to assist their coordination efforts.

AUSTIN – Texas Railroad Commissioners today awarded the Sabine Mining Co. the Commission’s 2019 Reclamation Award. The operator was recognized for restoring more than 3,400 contiguous acres of Harrison County, mined land into native grass habitat for bobwhite quail, grassland songbirds, Monarch butterflies, pollinating insects and grazing livestock. 

The restored acreage south of Hallsville is part of the South Hallsville No. 1 Mine, a lignite surface mine which has been in continuous operation since 1984. Since its beginning, reclamation has been ongoing at the RRC-permitted mine that encompasses 44,401 acres. The operator replanted native grasses to provide habitat for a diversity of species, increased wildlife populations and higher nutrition for grazing livestock. 

“The Sabine Mining Co. believed that reclamation can and should be synonymous with restoration—restoration of habitat, restoration of ecosystems and is doing just that by ‘Going Native’ through the use of native grasses,” the company states in its application for the award. 

The, RRC’s Surface Mining and Reclamation Division accepts nominees from the Texas coal industry for the Commission’s Reclamation Award Program. The program recognizes outstanding and innovative reclamation achievements at Texas coal mines and complements the Interstate Mining Compact Commission's Annual Reclamation Awards Program. A technical and enforcement team from the SMRD staff then selects a nominee based on IMCC criteria. 

Along with fish and wildlife habitat, the company’s reclaimed mined acreage provides forestry, pastureland, streams and developed ponds. The mined land is owned by thousands of private landowners who have leased the property for surface mining. The reclaimed acreage also establishes woody corridors to provide wildlife access to water and protective cover. These areas and planted stands of trees, also known as mottes, were developed with guidance from professional biologists and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department staff. 

The Sabine Mining Co., whose parent company is North American Coal Corp., operates the South Hallsville No. 1 Mine and the adjacent Rusk Mine. These two mines have 284 full-time employees and more than 40 contractors, who assist with maintenance, reclamation and other projects.The mines produce approximately 4 million tons of lignite annually, which generates electricity in Texas at the H.W. Pirkey Power Plant. This plant is owned and operated by the Southwestern Electric Power Co. – a division of American Electric Power.

(From L-R) RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian, RRC Chairman Christi Craddick,  Sabine Mining Co. Reps:
Josh McAfee; Steve Billingslea, Angela Martin, RRC Surface Mining & Reclamation Interim Director Alex Schoch
& Sabine Mining Co. President Andy Hawbaker, RRC Commissioner Ryan Sitton.

AUSTIN –Members of the Texas House of Representatives Committee on Energy Resources, chaired by Rep. Chris Paddie, visited the Railroad Commission’s Austin offices today for an agency tour and briefing on operations. 

“The RRC is vital to the environmental protection and economic success of Texas, so this was a great opportunity to dig in on the important work of the agency,” said Chairman Paddie. “I’m pleased to see the good progress the agency is making, from increasing transparency by implementing an online search tool for oil and gas inspection and violation data, to adding field staff for inspecting oil and gas wells and pipelines.” 

During the Committee’s tour, members and legislative staff were given a demonstration of RRC OIL, the agency’s new online search tool for inspection and violation data of oil and gas wells in Texas. They also were updated on the Commission’s progress on state managed well-plugging, as well as oil and gas well inspections. 

“We’re grateful the members and their staff took time out of their very busy schedules to visit us and see first-hand the hard work and dedication of RRC staff to ensure the safe, responsible production our state’s energy resources,” said RRC Executive Director Wei Wang.

“We’re extremely proud of the work we do for Texas and stand ready to assist the Committee on important energy-related issues this legislative session.” 

Committee members were also given a briefing on the RRC’s Groundwater Advisory Unit, which sets drilling requirements for every oil or gas well, to ensure groundwater is protected. Additional briefings covered pipeline safety responsibilities, alternative fuel activities, gas service operations, coal mining regulations and improvements to the agency’s online Geographic Information System Map, which gives the public access to data on every oil and gas well in the state. 

(From Left to Right) Rep. Ernest Bailes, Rep. Cody Harris, RRC Commissioner
Wayne Christian & House Energy Resources Committee Chairman Chris Paddie.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas’ Public Geographic Information System (GIS) Map Viewer can now display data for multiple wells in a defined radius area set by a user. 

Surface and downhole data on multiple wells can now be easily downloaded and opened with software such as Microsoft Excel. This feature allows anyone to quickly research information for multiple wells in a specifically designated area, rather than one well at a time.  

“Thanks to support from the Texas Legislature, the Commission is able to improve on one of our most popular online queries – the Public GIS Map Viewer,” Executive Director Wei Wang said.

“Features like this help to further enhance transparency about the Commission’s regulation of the Texas energy industry.” 

More information on using this new feature can be found under “Radius Tool and Download Wells” on pages 18-21 of the Public GIS Viewer User Guide. The user guide is available on Public GIS Viewer webpage. 

Questions on using the new feature may be directed to the RRC’s Well Mapping Section at 512-463-6851 or RRC.Mapping@RRC.texas.gov .

AUSTIN - Railroad Commission Chairman Christi Craddick today welcomed a delegation from Australia to the Railroad Commission headquarters in Austin. 

Chairman Craddick explained to the group how the Texas Railroad Commission provides a sound regulatory foundation for the Texas energy industry while also protecting public safety and the environment.

Left to Right: James Pratt, Executive Director-Onshore Gas Development, Northern Territory Government-Department of Primary Industry and Resources; RRC Chairman Christi Craddick; and Rod Applegate, Deputy Chief Executive-Mines and Energy, Northern Territory Government-Department of Primary Industry and Resources.

Christi Craddick was reelected statewide by the people of Texas in November 2018 to serve as Texas Railroad Commissioner. A native of Midland, Christi is an attorney specializing in oil and gas, water, tax issues, electric deregulation and environmental policy.

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 1,196 original drilling permits in January 2019 compared to 1,166 in January 2018. The January 2019 total included 1,102 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, seven to re-enter plugged well bores and 87 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 303 oil, 53 gas, 732 oil or gas, 88 injection, three service and 17 other permits.

In January 2019, Commission staff processed 742 oil, 245 gas, 29 injection and four other completions compared to 739 oil, 179 gas, 44 injection and one other completions in January 2018. Total well completions processed for 2019 year to date are 1,020; up from 963 recorded during the same time period in 2018.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of February 8 was 511, representing about 49 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

For additional drilling permit and completion statistics, visit the Commission’s monthly drilling completion page .

TABLE 1 – JANUARY 2019 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

*A district map is available on the Railroad Commission of Texas website at https://portalvhdskzlfb8q9lqr9.blob.core.windows.net/media/21430/districts_color_8x11.pdf.

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AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $355,976 in fines involving 202 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Martin County Environmental LLC entered into a consent order agreeing to pay a $50,000 administrative penalty after originally protesting an oil and gas enforcement order and going to a hearing. The consent order can be found under Docket Number 08-0304808 .

Operators were assessed $18,688 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on these Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $26,513 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $260,775 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

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AUSTIN— Continuing its culture of learning, the Railroad Commission of Texas today launches its first-ever new inspector training school—"Boots on the Ground.” This training will focus on new oil and gas inspectors with less than two years tenure at the RRC. The school will ensure inspectors have a clear understanding of the agency’s inspection process, oil and gas rules and necessary technical knowledge to provide consistent enforcement across Texas.

“Protection of public safety and our environment is the Commission’s highest priority, and our oil and gas inspectors are on the frontline 24/7 across Texas carrying out this mission” said RRC’s Executive Director Wei Wang. “We are taking many steps to invest in our employees. Boots on the Ground establishes a core curriculum statewide to ensure consistent and accurate application of our rules among all district offices.”

RRC’s first scheduled week-long training school starts today, Feb. 4, in the Commission’s Kilgore District Office. RRC Project Manager and former Kilgore Oil and Gas District Assistant Director Dana McClendon will lead the training classes statewide. Other seminars are scheduled for April and June for inspectors serving RRC’s West and South regions.

The Commission has 158 authorized oil and gas inspector positions.  Currently 75 inspectors have less than two years’ experience at the RRC and will be required to attend “Boots on the Ground” training.  Curriculum includes a review of the Commission’s oil and gas rules and in-the-field mock exercises for inspections and responding to spills and complaints.

RRC's first "Boots on the Ground" training class for oil and gas inspectors with less than
two years at the agency, at our Kilgore District office.

AUSTIN –– Crude oil and natural gas production as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) for November 2018 came from 180,472 oil wells and 90,168 gas wells.

The RRC reports that from October 2017 to November 2018, total Texas reported production was 1.265 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.5 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC.

For additional oil and gas production statistics, including the ranking of each Texas County by crude oil, total gas and condensate production, visit the RRC’s website's monthly production page .

TABLE 1 - NOVEMBER 2018 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 – AVERAGE DAILY PRODUCTION**

**Preliminary Reported Totals

TABLE 3 - NOVEMBER 2017 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

 
TABLE 4 – NOVEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – NOVEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 6 – NOVEMBER 2018 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,206,465 in fines involving 290 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ conference this week. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety. 

Operators were assessed $891,991 after failing to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Details on this Master Default Order can be found on the RRC website here 

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $29,024 for oil and gas, LP-Gas and pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $285,450 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Details on all these Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC website here. 

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – Today, the Railroad Commission of Texas launched its RRC Online Inspection Lookup (OIL) tool for searching statewide oil and gas inspection and enforcement information, including notices of violation and intentions to sever leases. For the first time in RRC history, RRC OIL allows anyone, anywhere at any time to search online records of oil and gas well inspections and violations.

Chairman Christi Craddick said, ““RRC Online Inspection Lookup continues our efforts to use improved technology to deliver more accessible information to the public and industry on the work of the commission.”

Commissioner Ryan Sitton said, “Government transparency keeps citizens informed and engaged. The Railroad Commission has made great strides on transparency under our watch, and I am pleased that through initiatives like RRC Oil we continue to lead the way. I will continue to push for even more transparency and accessibility at the RRC.”

Commissioner Wayne Christian said, “This tool will be helpful to our agency, the industry and most importantly, the general public in ensuring individuals have easy, transparent access to data regarding the regulation of our natural resources. I applaud our hardworking staff and the commitment of funding from the Texas Legislature in making this long-desired tool a reality.”

Users may access RRC OIL 24/7 and can customize inspection and violation searches by a variety of criteria, including;  

• Operator name;
• Lease name or number;
• API number;
• County;
• RRC District Oil and Gas District number;
• Inspection date range, and;
• Rule.

RRC OIL accesses inspection and enforcement data entered into the RRC’s Inspection, Compliance, Enforcement Electronic Tracking System, which was implemented in August 2015. Users may also download data set files either statewide or by RRC district office.

The RRC OIL tool is part of the agency’s on-going information technology modernization program using technology for greater efficiency in RRC operations and making data collected and maintained by the agency more accessible to the public.

RRC OIL can be found on our website here

PASADENA – Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton spoke to aspiring leaders in government and business today at a Chamber of Commerce forum in Pasadena. Commissioner Sitton gave his ideas on leadership in government, community and business. 

“This year I’m making it my mission to speak out on what leadership is and what it means,” Commissioner Sitton said. “Our state and our nation need quality leaders now more than ever. It’s vital that we encourage young Texans to step up and learn to lead. Impact Pasadena is all about linking today’s proven leaders with potential leaders and providing them opportunities to connect for mentoring and training. I’m very pleased and honored to speak here today.” 

Before entering public service in 2014, Commissioner Sitton was a successful inventor and entrepreneur. He and his wife Jennifer founded PinnacleART, which designs, implements and maintains comprehensive asset and reliability programs for process facilities in the oil and gas, chemical, mining, pharmaceutical, wastewater, and electric power industries. Today PinnacleART is a profitable company employing more than 800 staff. It is headquartered in Pasadena. 

Impact Pasadena is a Pasadena Chamber of Commerce project aimed at developing and improving participants’ leadership skills. Impact Pasadena kicked off this week and will host training and other events throughout 2019.

AUSTIN – A coalition of climate catastrophists, led by Environment Texas, sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott demanding immediate action to reduce emissions and combat what they claim is man-made climate change. 

In response, Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian penned a letter to the Governor applauding him for his work on energy and environmental issues and the key role it has played in ensuring American energy dominance. You can read the letter here.

“Last year, it was announced that the United States lowered its carbon emissions more than any country in the world for the ninth time in 18 years,” said Commissioner Christian. “These reductions coincide directly with the Texas shale boom and are because of our increased production and use of natural gas – not punitive government policies such as carbon-taxes or emission reduction mandates.” 

“For the first time in decades, the U.S. has surpassed Saudi Arabia and Russia as the top producer of oil and gas in the world,” continued Christian. “This is no accident. It is the direct result of deliberate policy decisions made by leaders like Governor Greg Abbott and President Donald Trump. Energy security is national security, and our country is safer today because of our consistent, predictable regulatory environment.”

AUSTIN - Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton today announced the addition of Bryan Preston to his Austin staff. Preston serves as director of public affairs.

“I’m pleased to welcome Bryan to our great team at the Railroad Commission,” Sitton said. “He brings deep experience and knowledge of media, blogs, social media and state government with him. He has spent his career fighting for freedom, conservative principles and for Texas. Bryan is going to make an immediate impact in our ability to serve the state and will be a key member of our team.”

Preston joins the Railroad Commission from the Texas General Land Office, where he served as communications director. His career includes service as communications director of the Republican Party of Texas, producer of the Laura Ingraham Show, and producer for NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. He is also a military veteran, having served on active duty in the United States Air Force.

“Communicating with the public and media about the important work we are doing on behalf of Texans and making sure they have the information they need are some of the most important things I do at the commission. Bryan is going to help us become more proactive in providing meaningful information to the public regarding the exciting things happening in energy production in our great state,” concluded Sitton.

AUSTIN –– The Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) issued a total of 811 original drilling permits in December 2018 compared to 885 in December 2017. The December 2018 total included 750 permits to drill new oil or gas wells, 10 to re-enter plugged well bores and 51 for re-completions of existing well bores. The breakdown of well types for those permits is 180 oil, 43 gas, 537 oil or gas, 46 injection, one service and four other permits.

In December 2018, Commission staff processed 564 oil, 156 gas, 27 injection and three other completions compared to 514 oil, 80 gas, 26 injection and three other completions in December 2017. Total well completions processed for 2018 are 10,986; up from 6,914 recorded in 2017.

According to Baker Hughes Inc., the Texas rig count as of January 4 was 534, representing about 50 percent of all active rigs in the United States.

 
TABLE 1 – DECEMBER 2018 TEXAS OIL AND GAS DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

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AUSTIN - Railroad Commission Chairman Christi Craddick today announced Jason Modglin as the new Director of Public Affairs for the Chairman’s office.  

“Jason is a great addition to the Railroad Commission and will play an important role in my office, ensuring the Commission delivers efficient, effective regulation for the people of Texas,” said Chairman Craddick. “In his time at the Legislature, he has been heavily involved with crafting conservative state budgets and legislation protecting Texan’s natural resources.” 

Modglin previously served as Chief of Staff to State Rep. Drew Darby, who chairs the House Energy Resources Committee and the House State & Federal Power & Responsibility Committee. A native of Houston, Texas, Modglin is a graduate Southwestern University with a degree in Political Science and the University of Texas at Austin with a master’s degree in Public Affairs.