New Mexico may reconsider decision on more natural gas wells

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico oilfield regulators are considering whether to reopen a decision to ease restrictions on natural gas well locations for a Texas-based company operating in the northwest corner of the state.

Newly arrived state Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard announced Friday a special hearing of the state’s Oil Conservation Commission at her request on whether to reconsider an approved application from Hilcorp Energy to increase the well density for some areas. Hilcorp had no immediate comment.

Longstanding density limits have prevented the company from tapping more of a formation called the Blanco-Mesaverde gas pool.

Approval of the application late last year prompted an outcry from conservationists and a rebuke from the previous land commissioner.