Technical Agenda

Tuesday, 23 April, 1730-1900

Welcome Reception

Wednesday, 24 April, 0800-0815

Welcome and Opening Remarks

0815-0945

Session I: Well Construction and Integrity

Chairs: George King, Apache Corporation; Francois Auzerais, Schlumberger

Well construction and integrity is an increasingly visible area for pollution potential if not done correctly, and must last through initial fracturing and years of production operations. This session will focus on creating effective, life-of-well barriers.

1015-1145

Session II: “Green” Chemistry Developments in Hydraulic Fracture Stimulation

Chairs: Danny Durham, Apache Corporation; Dwyann Dalrymple, Nalco

Speakers will discuss new technologies that promote the use of more environmentally friendly products and processes as alternatives to the more conventional technologies currently used in unconventional systems.

1315-1445

Session III: Waste Management

Chairs: Michael Hurey, Cabot Oil and Gas Corporation; Joann McMahon, Baker Hughes

Production of waste fluids and solids from unconventional resource development poses a number of logistical and environmental challenges. This session focuses on current solutions for fluids/solids management and disposal. It also explores new methodologies that promote sustainability initiatives.

1515-1645

Session IV: Water Management

Chairs: Matt Mantell, Chesapeake Energy; Leonard Kalfayan, Hess Corporation

The development of unconventional resource plays requires a priority be placed on responsible water management. This session addresses the technical, economic, environmental, and political benefits of produced water recycling and reuse, as well as considerations for other non-potable water sources in unconventional well completion and stimulation operations.

Thursday, 25 April, 0800-0930

Session V: Air Today, Gone Tomorrow – But Is It?

Chairs: Denise Tuck, Halliburton Energy Services; Pam Sbar, Talisman Energy

Air emissions from unconventional resource development have been drawing the increasing attention of many stakeholders including the EPA, the states, industry, and the public. EPA regulations are being implemented to quantify the emissions from shale operations and control the emissions of pollutants and contaminants. Industry is taking action to minimize emissions while the public is concerned with potential health effects. All parties want to know the facts around quantifying the emission through the entire life of natural gas. Air issues are here today and tomorrow, and will be reviewed in this session.

1000-1130

Session VI: Groundwater and Ecological Considerations – Real Issues or Exaggerated Concerns?

Chairs: Kayli Clements, M-I SWACO; Ann Smith, GSI Environmental

This session will explore topics related to the measuring, modeling, and prevention of contaminants in the environment, particularly in the groundwater. It will also address ecological concerns related to nearby oil and gas operations. Topics on pre-drill sampling methodologies and analytical techniques to assess the impact on water resources near the drilling location, monitoring for fluctuations in water quality due to drilling activities, and baseline establishment of biodiversity in the drilling area and on the surrounding ecosystem are examples of session topics.

1300-1430

Session VII: Regulatory and Permitting

Chairs: Jill Cooper, Encana; David Alleman, ALL Consulting

State and federal regulations affecting unconventional oil and gas development have been changing rapidly over the last several years, and additional changes are either in progress or are being considered. The pace of these changes, as well as the new requirements themselves can create challenges in terms of staying in compliance and ensuring that the timing of permits can keep pace with field operations. This session addresses some of the more important recent changes, challenges in dealing with new requirements, and significant changes that are looming on the horizon.