Contents JUNE 2015 Volume 58 No. 6 in as ea B n 6 bs ia ge 4 Su rm Pa & 88 Pe re ge ho Pa ffs O THE ISSUE U.S.-based independent operators face new challenges in selecting the right production Artificial Lift equipment. The Artificial Lift Technology cover Technology reports look at solving problems inherent to wells with high initial production rates and steep decline curves, while revealing novel strategies to improve margins and increase estimated ultimate recoveries. The June Permian Basin Update shows a clear trend toward multizone, multiwell pad drilling and development schemes as operators navigate the present market while preparing for a future that calls for even more midstream infrastructure. This month's Offshore & Subsea Technology reports show how LLOG Exploration, along with its fraternity of project co-owners, fast-tracked the Delta House semisubmersible floating production system in the Mississippi Canyon Miocene play. A companion GOM activity overview offers insights on why other offshore operators are maintaining a long-term mind-set. Association news includes Official Convention Sections for VOGA and KOGA, and coverage of TAEP's annual meeting. Cover photo by Jim Blecha. Issue photography courtesy of LLOG Exploration Company. JUNE 2015 The "Better Business" Publication Serving the Exploration / Drilling / Production Industry Page 64 Brent Archer President VOGA "Everyone has to be prepared for and open to opportunities to educate a misinformed public about the industry." Page 105 Rudy Vogt President KOGA "Part of what KOGA intends to do is help inform its members. This will be a big part of going forward for our association." Page 108 NEWS 14 | Fracture Reg: Associations petition court to freeze BLM rule; Utah joins states' fracture lawsuit 28 | State Legislative: Oil and gas task force pays dividends in Colorado; Nevada governor signs permit fee increase; Texas sets limits on local jurisdiction; Oklahoma restricts municipal oversight; Pension crisis keeps Illinois legislators busy; Severance tax plan goes before Pennsylvania lawmakers; Washington approves oil transport legislation; Maryland passes fracture moratorium 39 | Endangered Species: USFWS seeks more state involvement in ESA decisions 40 | Federal Legislation: Senate examines ban on crude oil exports 45 | Energy Review: White House reveals infrastructure goals 110 | Kentucky: State revises its drilling and reclamation rules 122 | EKOGA: Compliance and outreach are midyear topics 123 | IOGA NY: Association refocuses mission on conventional operations 124 | Crude Transport: Agencies announce additional rail transport rules 125 | Royalty Valuation: Associations critical of ONRR proposal OFFICIAL CONVENTION SECTIONS 105 | VOGA: Industry advocates for pipeline infrastructure 108 | KOGA: Rogersville Shale shows promise CONVENTION COVERAGE 114 | TAEP: North Texas oilmen look to future COLUMNS 22 | Tech Connections 24 | Washington Watch 26 | Market Matters