AboutDavid Traugott Expertise I can answer questions related to the technical issues associated with the drilling and completing of oil and gas wells; very familiar with the cementing process and LWD tools. Limited knowledge of mineral rights and/or royalties.
Experience Twelve years working as an engineer in the industry both in the field and in the office. Field locations include offshore, land, and overseas. Office locations include Lafayette, LA and Houston, TX.
Organizations SPE, AADE, IADC, API, IEEE
Publications SPE Drilling and Completion Magazine
Education/Credentials -Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, 1995
-Currently working on MBA, 2010 (anticipated)
Past/Present Clients Major and Independent Oil and Gas Companies.
Expert: David Traugott Date: 7/27/2008 Subject: Gas Well Safety in Residential Areas
Question Our city council just approved the drilling of a 7th well within a two mile radius of our residential sub-development of about 700 homes. The residents of the community are divided on whether this is a good idea pretty much by whether they are getting royalties or not. While I stand to get royalties (a few dollars now and then) and have signed a lease, my concern is the danger of explosion and fire. I am also concerned about aquifer damage. I feel like the "Lone Ranger" here. These topics just don't get discussed. When I do broach the subject with someone, I get silence or that vacant look that says "I have no clue." Am I crazy to be concerned about these things? What ARE the risks to people living near a well, especially this many wells?
Answer Yes, there are hazards associated with the drilling of oil and gas wells; however, the regulatory agency in your state publishes strict guidelines that an oil and gas operator must follow in the interest of public safety. If, for some reason, you suspect that the operator of the wells near your subdivision is being negligent, then you can request a hearing at the office of regulatory agency and express your concerns there. Here are a few links to a few of the different agencies in the most active states; if your state is not listed just do an Internet search with the name of your state followed by "oil and gas commission".
