Bison Energy outlines drilling plan and timing concerns near Highway 14

On June 4, 2025, the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission convened to discuss critical issues surrounding the drilling operations proposed by Bison, a company seeking to develop a new site adjacent to Highway 14. The meeting highlighted the complexities of balancing environmental concerns with operational necessities, particularly regarding timing restrictions related to ozone season and habitat preservation.

A significant point of discussion was Bison's strategy to avoid drilling during the ozone season, which is a period when air quality is particularly sensitive to emissions. Bison representatives explained that due to the lack of utility line power at the site, they would rely on dual fuel engines, which are less environmentally friendly. The company aimed to schedule construction outside of the ozone season, with drilling expected to begin in December 2025. However, concerns were raised by commissioners regarding the potential overlap of drilling activities with the ozone season, as the timeline suggested that some drilling might extend into January 2026, which could conflict with the established restrictions.

Commissioners expressed confusion over the drilling schedule, questioning whether Bison could commit to completing the majority of drilling before January. While Bison indicated that they would strive to finish drilling primarily in December, they could not guarantee that all operations would be completed outside the restricted period. This uncertainty raised alarms about the potential environmental impact of drilling during a sensitive time.

Another critical aspect of the meeting was the discussion about site access. Bison's representatives argued that accessing the site directly from Highway 14 would require significant road construction, leading to long-term environmental disturbances. Instead, they proposed a route that would minimize surface disruption, despite concerns from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) about habitat fragmentation.

The commission's dialogue underscored the ongoing tension between energy development and environmental stewardship. Bison's commitment to work closely with CPW and pay higher mitigation fees if operations occur during the timing restrictions reflects an acknowledgment of these challenges. However, the lack of a firm commitment to avoid drilling during sensitive periods leaves open questions about the potential consequences for local ecosystems.

As the commission continues to evaluate Bison's proposals, the discussions from this meeting highlight the critical need for careful consideration of both energy needs and environmental protections in Colorado's evolving landscape. The outcome of these deliberations will likely have lasting implications for future energy projects in the region.