SB 18 embodies policies that have already been implemented in several other states. Two of those states – California and Colorado – have significant amounts of oil and gas production. Oil and gas production has fallen by over 6% per year in California and by 2% per year in Colorado since the introduction of these policies. The table below illustrates the potential impacts on state and local revenue from the oil and gas industry if production in New Mexico falls by 2% per year or by 6% per year.
New Mexico’s business community supports and practices meaningful, achievable efforts to reduce emissions and protect the state’s natural resources. SB 18 proposes mandates and timelines that would significantly increase costs across the economy while outpacing existing infrastructure capacity, undermining affordability and economic stability for New Mexicans.
On February 2nd, an op-ed was published in the Santa Fe New Mexican in response to NMOGA’s promotion of the S&P Global Commodity Insight finding that in 2023, the Permian Basin reduced methane emissions by 26%.
The op-ed attempted to undermine this progress while also supporting Senate Bill 4 and its emission targets. However, there was no discussion about the feasibility of those targets and what it would do to the industry and the financial stability of the state if the targets were imposed.
The oil and gas industry is proud to partner with our communities all across the state. In fiscal year 2024, oil and gas tax of more than $279 million went directly to New Mexico public school. We've talked with teachers about how the oil and gas industry is making an impact in the classroom, in addition to the tax revenue dollars.
The path to a cleaner energy future runs through — not around — a well-managed expansion of American energy production. The world as it exists today demands more energy, not less. Our job is to meet that demand responsibly, generate the economic strength to fund innovation, and support the new energy technologies that come next. New Mexico has made great strides in recent years through the development of methane rules that improve air quality and regulations that better protect ground and surface water.
Additionally, advancements in technology have allowed wells to produce more efficiently, contributed to the reduction in emissions, and increased safety around produced water. The combination of regulation and technology ensures that the oil and gas industry is increasing environmental protections while contributing to New Mexico’s economic base.
Three Ideas That Anchor Our Work
1
Clean, Reliable Domestic Energy
Produced under the most rigorous standards in the world.
2
An Honest Recognition of Demand
The world needs more energy now, and a strong domestic industry is the engine that funds diversification.
3
People at the Center
The face of this industry is the people who go to work every day in communities across New Mexico.
Stewardship in Action
Cutting Methane Emissions
A recent analysis by S&P Global Commodity Insights revealed a significant milestone in the fight against climate change: a 26% reduction in methane emissions from oil and gas production operations in the Permian Basin in 2023. This achievement is not just a win for the environment but also a testament to the industry’s ability to innovate, adapt, and companies’ commitment to stewardship. The data, collected through high-frequency observation and nearly 700 high-resolution aerial surveys, provides the most accurate basin-wide estimate of methane emissions to date.
26%
Reduction in Permian Basin methane emissions from oil and gas operations in 2023
34 Bcf
Decrease in methane emissions in 2023 — more than 34 billion cubic feet
18.5M
Tons of carbon dioxide emissions avoided — more than the 2023 driving emissions avoided by every EV ever sold in the U.S.
Source: S&P Global Commodity Insights, based on nearly 700 high-resolution aerial surveys.
Protecting Freshwater
The oil and gas industry in New Mexico is committed to minimizing its impact on our freshwater resources. To further enhance water conservation efforts, the industry is actively seeking additional ways to increase the reuse of treated, produced water through science-proven technologies. These innovative practices ensure that treated water can be safely utilized, reducing the demand for fresh water and preserving it for other essential uses.
The industry uses less than 1% of New Mexico’s fresh water in its operations — a minimal footprint that reflects its dedication to sustainable practices and resource conservation.
Where New Mexico’s water actually goes: mining (including oil and gas) accounts for only 1.49% of total withdrawals.
The oil and gas industry is proud to partner with our communities all across the state. In fiscal year 2024, oil and gas tax of more than $279 million went directly to New Mexico public school. We've talked with teachers about how the oil and gas industry is making an impact in the classroom, in addition to the tax revenue dollars.
First up is Hannah VanScotter, who teaches Energy Pathway, Science, and Math at Carlsbad High School. Here she discusses how the energy industry provides real world applications to her students, encouraging them to dive in to math and science knowing the value it will bring to them in future careers.
This opinion article first ran in the Alamogordo News on November 16th.
Keeping New Mexico Safe: PFAS Are Not Used in NM Oil and Gas Operations By Missi Currier, Jim Winchester, and Ben Shepperd
The Oil Conservation Commission will consider changes to PFAS rules in New Mexico related to oil and gas use. This rulemaking request was made by WildEarth Guardians and New Energy Economy.
The New Mexico oil and gas trade associations and these environmental nonprofits (eNGOs) agree – PFAS should not be utilized in oil and gas production. However, we differ on the fearmongering tactics that utilize half-truths and purposely ignore the best available science and PFAS facts. A common tactic used by eNGOs is playing on peoples’ fears in the pursuit of a much more sinister agenda – to shut down one of the most valuable industries in our beloved state.
Today marks the start of the 2025 legislation. Hear from NMOGA's Vice President of Government Affairs on the key issues the industry will be following.
Fueled by New Mexico’s continued record oil and gas production, the Legislative Finance Committee increased its General Fund Consensus Revenue Estimate by $243 million, for a total of $13.26 billion of recurring revenues for Fiscal Year '25.
NMOGA is grateful the oil and gas professionals whose dedication to innovation and excellence continues to Energize New Mexico and move our state forward. The estimated funding increase continues the industry’s growing contribution to New Mexico’s education, public safety, infrastructure and numerous programs that improve quality of life for all New Mexicans.
The elevated estimate also reflects the strength the industry to exceed production demands while adhering to state regulations to protect New Mexico’s environment. Look to NMOGA for ongoing Legislative updates all throughout the 2025 legislative session.
NMOGA was proud to join members of our oil and gas community at the Dark for the Park Alliance's Recognition Celebration on January 9th at the National Cave and Karst Research Institute. Originally scheduled to be held at Carlsbad National Caverns but moved due to inclement weather, the event was an inspiring evening celebrating Franklin Mountain Energy's efforts to preserve our dark skies.
From left to right:
Marcellus Davis, NMOGA, Community Liaison; Carmen Chapin, Carlsbad National Park, Superintendent; Rachael Overbey, Franklin Mountain, Director, Operations Planning & Regulatory; Clay Treadaway, Franklin Mountain Energy, Field Superintendent; Alexandra Fleming, Chevron, New Mexico Regulatory Advisor; Lindsey Ball, Franklin Mountain Energy, Senior Operations Engineer; Ruskin Hartley, DarkSky International, CEO & Executive Director; Michael Rymer, DarkSky International, Program Associate
ConocoPhillips is contributing $100,000 toward relief and recovery efforts in the Ruidoso area of New Mexico after a pair of wildfires caused significant damage.
ConocoPhillips will make its donation to the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. The funds will provide support to Lincoln and Otero counties, according to a company news release. The company will also match donations from its U.S. employees.
New Mexico is one of the United States' leading oil and natural producers, ranking 2nd in annual oil production and 9th in annual natural gas production concentrated in two areas: the Permian Basin in the southeast and the San Juan Basin in the northwest. With its significant contributions to the industry, the state also faces the challenge of addressing environmental concerns, particularly when it comes to methane emissions. The state’s regulatory framework is designed with a clear objective: reducing methane emissions while ensuring the continued growth of its oil and gas sector.
“The regulations are designed to benefit everyone - promoting the health of our residents while helping the oil and gas industry capture as much product as possible and advance their own goals. I believe this sets the tone for how business should be conducted here in the state.”– saidMichelle Miano, Environmental Protection Division Directorat theNew Mexico Environment Department, in a recent podcast episode of Methane Talks.
At the forefront of these initiatives is the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association (NMOGA), dedicated to promoting the safe and environmentally responsible development of oil and natural gas resources in New Mexico. To learn more about NMOGA’s role in shaping policy and fostering collaboration between the oil and gas sector, we spoke withAndrea Felix,Senior Regulatory Policy Advisorfor theNew Mexico Oil & Gas Association.
If you’re looking to get into the oil and gas industry, Tiffany Roberts knows the way.
“Sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith and step out of your comfort zone if you want something different,” said Tiffany, a stabilizer operator/multi-skill operator.
Years ago, Tiffany decided to change professions, looking to move beyond the job she had as a financial counselor at a hospital in East Texas.
New Mexico produces the second highest amount of oil and gas in the country. The taxes from oil and gas production provide funding for state programs like education. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham spoke at the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association 2024 annual meeting Monday where she was part of a panel discussion about education.
We are gearing up for an exciting and informative event—our Carlsbad Mayor’s Energy Summit on October 17th. This will be my first summit as Mayor, and I look forward to discussing the future of energy in our region. The agenda includes three informative panels, a presentation on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), an update from Missi Currier, CEO and President of New Mexico Oil & Gas Association (NMOGA), and introductions from up-and-coming companies like Permian Resources and Aris Water. Sarah Thomas, the first female NFL official, will be our special guest speaker, sharing her experiences and insights on breaking barriers and leadership.
During the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association’s (NMOGA) Annual Conference Monday, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham joined Tracee Bentley, president of the Permian Strategic Partnership, and Missi Currier, president and CEO of NMOGA, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the state’s education system and the important role the oil and gas industry plays in advocating for long-term improvements to the education system.
Gov. Lujan Grisham, Bentley and Currier discussed the administration’s education initiatives, how the industry has supported and can continue to support local students and communities, and the vision for the future of New Mexico and its students.
The wait is over! The New Mexico Oil & Gas Association’s Annual Meeting is finally here, and the energy in Santa Fe is palpable. From October 6-8, industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders will converge at the Eldorado Hotel for what promises to be an unforgettable event.