The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.
January 11, 2011
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) has reviewed and re-adopted 16 TAC 4 because the reasons for adopting these rules continue to exist. In addition, amendments have been made to various sections relating to Definitions; General Permit Provisions; Permit Renewal; Acceptance or rejection of an Application; Permit for Surface Disposal; and Recordkeeping. These amendments make only non-substantive changes to correct cross-references to other RRC rules. For more information go to: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/rules/Jan13-adopt-ch4-amdmts-and-review.PDF
The RRC also has adopted new Section 11.136, relating to Uranium Exploration Permit Fees, with changes to the version published in the November 19, 2010 issue of the Texas Register. For more information go to: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/rules/Jan13-adopt-new-11-136-fees.PDF
The RRC proposes to amend Section 3.79, relating to Definitions, and Section 3.86, relating to Horizontal Drainhole Wells, to update and modernize the regulatory approach to new and evolving technologies regarding horizontal drilling and unconventional resource development in Texas. The RRC proposes to amend Section 3.79 to add new, and update existing, definitions. The RRC proposes to amend Section 3.86 to update, modernize, and clarify the rule, and incorporate for statewide application elements from numerous recent field rules relating to spacing of horizontal drainhole wells, including the concept of the "box rule," production sharing agreements, stacked lateral wells, and required information to be submitted with completion reports. The RRC also proposes to clarify notice requirements in certain circumstances to incorporate the concept of non-perforated zones (NPZs). For more information go to: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/sos/PROPOSED/16.ECONOMIC%20REGULATION.html#32
Henry M. Wise, P.G.The Wise Report1/22/2011