Evacuation from Gas leak

During the May 7, 2024 Kern IVAN Taskforce meeting, the Air District stated they have completed multiple site visits. The investigation is still open. CalGEM is also working with the operators or contractors to fix leaks and complete pipeline testing. The Griffin operator needed more visits since since gauges and other items needed repairs before testing could be done. CalGEM issued multiple NOVs and formal orders have been issued. The Griffin operator is appealing, and there will be another hearing.

The SJVAPCD Complaint Investigation Report we received from a public records request stated the Air District inspector reported to the site with an Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) camera and toxic vapor analyser. The inspector observed gas coming out of the ground around the well with the OGI camera and recorded methane readings from 200 ppm up to 180,000 ppm. The inspector stated no leaks were coming from the equipment located above ground. The inspector stated the well contact said the API gravity of the oil was 16, which makes it exempt from both Air District rules and the California Oil and Gas Regulation (COGR). No violations were observed by the Air District, and they are closing this incident.