The state should be a partner in problem-solving rather than a barrier. In this instance, local input has helped DEQ identify a gap in the regulations. This Supervisor of Wells Instruction addresses that shortcoming. We intend to take every reasonable action to further reduce any hazard to public health or the environment. The DEQ director is empowered to issue instructions to quickly address potential oil and gas regulatory issues.
Instructions clarify and supplement existing regulations, and are binding on the industry.
The DEQ will take immediate action to incorporate the Supervisor of Wells Instruction as a formal rule. The department has primary jurisdiction over oil and gas wells and their associated treatment and storage facilities. The action is in response to a 1996 incident in the Manistee area which raised questions about threats to public health and safety. The incident occurred at a well in Parkdale, just north of Manistee, when hydrogen sulfide gas was intentionally released during work on a gas well. DEQ computer modeling of the air quality indicated that hydrogen sulfide concentrations reached approximately 8 parts per million.