WaveTech seeks approval for four helium production pads in Cheyenne County

On July 2, 2025, the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission convened to discuss the proposed Oil and Gas Development Plan (OGDP) submitted by WaveTech Helium for four drilling locations in Cheyenne County. The meeting highlighted the company's plans to develop helium-containing natural gas while addressing environmental concerns, particularly regarding the Lesser Prairie Chicken habitat.

WaveTech's proposal includes the Hradeciech Trust 23 11 drill pad, the Hradeciech Trust 23 11 production pad, the Hatechet Trust 21 14 pad, and the Hatechet Trust 24 14 pad. The company emphasized its commitment to minimizing surface disturbance, particularly in agricultural areas, and noted that the 23 11 production pad was specifically sited to avoid permanent disruption within a crop circle, responding to surface owner requests.

The commission learned that all gas produced from these sites would be directed to the existing Ladder Creek pipeline system, with no oil production anticipated. WaveTech has maintained close communication with Cheyenne County officials, who do not regulate the siting of oil and gas locations but have expressed support for the project.

A significant aspect of the discussion centered on the environmental impact of the proposed sites, particularly their proximity to the Lesser Prairie Chicken's estimated occupied range. Three of the four locations fall within this area, and WaveTech has consulted with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to ensure compliance with wildlife protection measures. CPW waived the Alternative Location Analysis (ALA) for three of the four sites, indicating that the proposed locations were deemed acceptable given their agricultural context and distance from known wildlife habitats.

The meeting also addressed the informed consent obtained from a residential building unit owner near the Hadechek 23 11 production pad, which is located within 2,000 feet of the residence. This consent is crucial for the approval process under state regulations.

Throughout the presentation, WaveTech representatives highlighted their adherence to notice requirements and reported that no formal petitions or public comments were received regarding the proposed drilling locations. The director of the commission recommended approval of the OGDP, underscoring the company's efforts to mitigate potential environmental impacts while advancing energy production in the region.

As the meeting concluded, the commission's approval of the OGDP will pave the way for WaveTech to proceed with its drilling plans, marking a significant step in the development of helium resources in Colorado while balancing ecological considerations.