Overview of Underground Injection Control Regulations Relating to Class II (Oil and Gas Associated) Injection Wells--Past, Present, and Future

Talib Syed

The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 mandates United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and primacy state regulation of injection wells in order to protect underground sources of drinking water (USDW) from contamination. Currently five classes (I-V) of injection wells exist with class II wells being those used in conjunction with oil and gas production activities. In 1986, 60 million bbl of oil-field fluids were injected through 166,000 injection wells in the continental United States. These disposal volumes will increase significantly in the future as the producing fields continue to be depleted. The petroleum industry's generally good track record in protecting the nation's ground-water resources, unfortunately, has not been accepted by all sectors of the pub ic. This in turn, has led to the current reevaluation of the existing class II regulatory framework and a reassessment of the degree of protection afforded to USDW from oil and gas activities.

This presentation gives an overview of the evolution, current status, and emerging trends in class II Underground Injection Control regulations. Key areas discussed include well construction, operating and monitoring requirements, mechanical integrity testing, plugging and abandonment procedures, and financial assurance demonstrations. The petroleum industry must continue to work closely with EPA and other regulatory agencies in identifying and correcting any deficiencies in current injection practices. A sincere and open approach by both parties will prevent unnecessary additional regulatory burdens and enhance the petroleum industry's image and its commitment to continued protection of the drinking water resources.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91024©1989 AAPG Pacific Section, May 10-12, 1989, Palm Springs, California.