Project Spotlight: Produced Water Remediation in Southeastern New Mexico

In the arid region of Southeastern New Mexico, the oil and gas industry faces a significant environmental challenge: managing and treating produced water, a byproduct of extraction activities. Talon/LPE has been performing soil remediation on produced water spills in New Mexico for over 20 years.

The Challenge

Approximately 20 barrels of produced water, a mixture of hydrocarbons, salts, and other contaminants, were released onto a well pad due to an equipment failure. Without effective remediation, this water could continue to affect soil quality and compromise the ground water resources of the region.

Talon/LPE’s Role

Talon/LPE responded to the call immediately and provided a comprehensive approach to the release.

• Initial response: Talon/LPE immediately upon notification dispatched a vacuum truck that was able to recover over 75% of the total produced water that was released.
• Site Assessment: Talon/LPE collected soil samples at the site. In total, nine samples were collected to a depth of four feet or until refusal. Chloride contamination was documented throughout the release area.
• Soil Remediation: Talon/LPE was contracted by the client to machine excavate to a depth of six feet in the release area. Confirmation samples were taken at the time of excavation, which indicated additional excavation would be required. Additional confirmation samples were collected after final excavation that met the requirements for site closure. Contaminated material was transported to a New Mexico Oil Conservation Division (NMOCD) approved solid waste disposal facility.
• Site Restoration and Reporting: Talon/LPE backfilled the excavated area with new caliche that was then compacted and contoured to match the surrounding areas. Talon/LPE completed the closure report and submitted the report to the NMOCD.

The Outcome

Talon/LPE’s swift and thorough response mitigated the environmental impact of the produced water release. By successfully removing the contamination, restoring the site, and ensuring regulatory compliance, they met client’s needs and go the site to closure. Their efforts underscored Talon/LPE’s long-standing commitment to providing soil remediation services in Southeastern New Mexico.