Oil & Gas

Conference on oil and gas business set for August 23- 24

The state of Louisiana’s oil and gas regulatory process, mineral leasing rules, and coastal management issues are the primary topics to be covered in the fourth annual, SONRIS to Sunset conference hosted by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The two-day event, known as Louisiana Oil and Gas:  SONRIS to Sunset, will be held August 23 -24, at The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans. Registration is now available online at www.dnr.louisiana.gov

Additionally, conference accommodations cover optional events to be held on Saturday and Sunday, prior to the Monday morning opening, which will feature speakers DNR Assistant Secretary Louis Buatt and Commissioner of Conservation James Welsh.

“The energy sector in Louisiana provides for many aspects of our way of life – it is an important industry to us and the rest of the nation.  We want oil and gas professionals and others who attend our seminars to know that it is a tremendous opportunity to learn more and become informed,” Assistant Secretary Buatt said.

To conduct business in our state, several agencies of state government are involved in the process. While DNR’s Office of Mineral Resources and the Office of Conservation have major oversight of oil and gas operations, the departments of Environmental Quality, Wildlife and Fisheries, and Revenue also have roles and procedures.  The protection of land, water, and the environment requires a multi-layered approach and finding better ways to be safe and conserve our resources takes continuous effort on the part of these agencies that work together.

The DNR SONRIS system (Strategic Online Natural Resources Information System) is a comprehensive database that has well and production information, royalty reports, and lease files; as well as an automated coastal use permitting process and GIS functions. Oil and gas records are at your finger-tips when using the system.  Conference participants have the chance to keep abreast of the latest technology, tools, and procedures that provide a more effective and efficient way to get their work done.

Continuing education credits for attorneys, engineers, and landmen will be offered.  Many businessmen and women from Texas and other states have taken advantage of this professional development offer.

This year, the conference will cover ground water notification requirements and will provide the latest news on activities in the Haynesville Shale in north Louisiana.

For information on conference accommodations and registration, contact Stacy Sharpe, stacy.sharpe@la.gov or 225-342-4615. The Louisiana Oil and Gas: SONRIS to Sunset brochure is available here.