Section 34-60-139 - Methane seepage in Raton basin - study of best management practices and water quality required - repeal(1) The commission and the water quality control division in the department of public health and environment, in consultation with local governments, shall perform a study that:(a) Identifies best management practices for capturing methane seepage in the Raton basin of southern Colorado;(b) Evaluates the quality of water resulting from such methane capture operations; and(c) Evaluates the potential to preserve and make beneficial use of such water.(2) The primary objectives of the study described in subsection (1) of this section are to: (a) Proactively and systematically locate and survey methane gas seepage in the Raton basin;(b) Document previous areas of seepage;(c) Calculate any differences in seepage amounts; and(d) Assess the potential for methane to create hazardous conditions.(3) The study described in subsection (1) of this section must include:(a) A survey to identify suspected seepage areas, previous seepage areas, and increases or decreases in seepage;(b) Detailed mapping of suspected seepage areas;(c) Sampling and analysis of gas collected from selected seepage areas; and(d) Sampling and analysis of water from selected water wells and methane capture wells in the Raton basin.(4) In performing the study described in subsection (1) of this section, the commission and the water quality control division shall coordinate with: (a) The Colorado energy office created in section 24-38.5-101;(b) The division of water resources created in the department of natural resources pursuant to section 24-1-124;(c) The division of mining, reclamation, and safety in the department of natural resources pursuant to section 34-20-103;(d) The division of parks and wildlife created in the department of natural resources pursuant to section 33-9-104; and(e) The boards of county commissioners in Las Animas and Huerfano counties.(5) The commission, in consultation with local governments, shall complete the study described in subsection (1) of this section and submit the study to the agriculture, water, and natural resources committee of the house of representatives and the agriculture and natural resources committee of the senate, or to any successor committees, on or before June 30, 2025.(6) This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2025.Added by 2023 Ch. 333,§ 1, eff. 8/7/2023.2023 Ch. 333, was passed without a safety clause. See Colo. Const. art. V, § 1(3).