The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) said it found possible emission violations throughout the state that were produced by oil and gas operations.
After several citizens provided video to NMED that used forward-looking infrared cameras to document air contaminants, including methane, the agency thinks those contaminants might be violating permits and regulations, the New Mexico Political Report said.
Oil and gas producers will receive written notices and have two weeks to fix the issues or NMED could launch an investigation into the matter.
"The department is addressing oil and natural gas emissions through innovative compliance assurance measures today as we invest in methane regulations for tomorrow," NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney said in a statement provided to the New Mexico Political Report. "The emissions documented in many of these videos are unacceptable to this department and pose significant health and safety risks to New Mexico communities and employees of these companies."
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