Summary
In 2014, San Miguel County in New Mexico adopted a measure severely restricting oil and gas drilling, citing a need to “preserve and protect environmentally sensitive lands, including but not limited to: wildlife habitats, wetlands, hillsides, arroyos, acequias, floodplains, and cultural, historical, and archaeological resources.” The ordinance restricts oil and gas exploration activities to the eastern portion of the county and imposes application fees as well as payments for pre-drilling assessments. Companies also have to sign a development agreement to pay for infrastructure projects for the activities.