ID 99-04

Alberta Environmental Protection (AEP) and the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) have developed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on new hydrocarbon and chloride criteria for the disposal of a range of oilfield wastes into Class II landfills. A summary of these requirements (Appendix 1) is attached.

Oilfield wastes targeted by this MOU include drilling mud and cuttings, produced sand, tank and treater bottoms, oily sludges, and flare pit material. Large volumes of these oilfield wastes are produced by oilfield operations and the improper management of these waste streams can have significant environmental consequences. The disposal of these oilfield wastes into landfills is still considered an acceptable practice provided the wastes are compatible with the receiving landfill.

The attached MOU outlines oilfield waste quality criteria and landfill facility design requirements for the deposition of these and similar oilfield wastes into Alberta landfills. The MOU is intended to enhance protection of the environment and the public interest, and to reduce liability through appropriate waste management.

Questions regarding the MOU should be directed to either Ms. Susan Halla (EUB, (403) 297-3184) or Mr. Tony Fernandes (AEP, (780) 427-0636).

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Brian Bietz
Board Member
Alberta Energy and Utilities Board

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Doug Tupper
Assistant Deputy Minister
Alberta Environmental Protection