Livestock and wildlife are having an easier time finding a drink of water in northeastern Wyoming’s arid landscape these days.
Groundwater derived from Devon’s natural gas production operations is being used to enhance the environment with lakes and ponds in places where they did not exist before. The new reservoirs have become centers of activity for cattle and sheep, as well as antelope, mule deer and birds ranging from raptors to waterfowl. Some have become prime fishing holes, as well.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department recognized Devon’s preservation effort with its 2002 Coalbed Methane Natural Resource Stewardship Award.
The state agency commended Devon for minimizing habitat disturbance on drill sites in the House Creek oil and gas field south of Gillette. It recognized the company for using groundwater released during production to create reservoirs that serve as wildlife habitat. The award also commended Devon’s effort to restore acquired oil field property by removing old tanks, revegetating disturbed sites and controlling weeds on active leases.
But House Creek isn’t the only field in Wyoming where Devon has pioneered its environmentally friendly production practices. The company has worked with landowners and the state to develop beneficial water management programs at other fields, such as Spotted Horse, Juniper Draw, Pine Tree and Kitty.
Environmental stewardship is a priority at Devon, and preservation initiatives such as the one at House Creek help landowners as well as wildlife. Enrichment of land and wildlife is worth the effort it takes to do the job right.