Sample Comment

In this time of uncertainty, the oil and gas industry has tried to delay forward progress on these protections. While we all understand the difficulties of conducting business during this time, it is critical that these rules move forward. Colorado communities and our environment have had to bear the consequences of adverse impacts from oil and gas development for too long. Tell the COGCC our families, communities, wildlife, and environment can’t wait!

Send a comment to the COGCC before their meeting, urging them to keep moving and not delay. We have provided a sample comment below. Please cut, paste, and edit as you see fit, and send in your comment at this address: https://cogcc.state.co.us/RuleMaking/?&cat=Mission

Sample Comment

I am writing today to ask the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) to continue its work to pass strong statewide rules that prioritize public health, the environment, and wildlife. I understand that COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives, including how to conduct government business and public process.

However, Colorado communities and our environment have had to bear the consequences of adverse impacts from oil and gas development for too long. I respectfully request that you move to adopt the strongest possible rules in order to fulfill your new mission.

Our homes and schools need to be protected by protective setbacks from oil and gas operations. The same applies to critical wildlife habitats, such as riparian areas. I’d also like to urge you to consult with wildlife experts and key agencies, like Colorado Parks and Wildlife to ensure that wildlife is protected.

Additionally, the cumulative impacts of oil and gas development on greenhouse gas emissions must be addressed. We need rules that will meaningfully address climate change and advance the state forward in achieving its goals set forth by HB20-1261. And finally, as many drilling sites could be closed down in the coming years due to the global downturn in oil markets, it is critical that the COGCC prepare for the mass plugging and abandonment of wells, ensuring taxpayers aren’t stuck with the cost of cleanup.

Now is the time to be proactive. We need a commitment to this process, strong rules, and statewide application of uniform rules to protect the health and safety of our constituents. Please keep up the hard work to adopt rules that prioritize Coloradans and our environment!