Weld County supports PDC Energy's Trout Creek oil and gas development plan

The Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) convened on July 2, 2025, to discuss significant developments in oil and gas management, focusing on the Trout Creek Oil and Gas Development Plan proposed by PDC Energy. The meeting, which lasted over two hours, included a presentation from Weld County representative, Ms. Holiday, who outlined the county's review process and support for the project.

Ms. Holiday emphasized the importance of the 10-41 process in Weld County, which allows for comprehensive planning and assessment of cumulative impacts related to oil and gas development. She noted that the Trout Creek plan consists of three locations that are part of PDC Energy's previously approved Guinella Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) from November 2022. This approval process ensures that all aspects of development are considered, helping to mitigate future land use conflicts.

The representative explained that once the overall CDP is approved, operators must submit site-specific information closer to the construction date. This approach minimizes the need for constant updates as regulations and technologies evolve. She confirmed that the individual sites within the Trout OGDP—specifically the Quandary, Yale, and Sanford South locations—have completed the necessary review process and received administrative approval from Weld County.

Ms. Holiday concluded her remarks by stating that Weld County has no objections to the pending ECMC permit for the Trout Creek project and expressed support for its approval. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts between local government and energy companies in managing oil and gas development while addressing environmental and community concerns.