Title: New Mexico Checklist of Information to Obtain For Evaluating Environmental Matters on Producing Properties Introduction: When considering investment or ownership of producing properties in New Mexico, it is essential to evaluate the environmental factors associated with these properties. This checklist outlines some crucial information to obtain and assess, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the environmental matters related to producing properties in New Mexico. Keywords: New Mexico, producing properties, environmental matters, checklist, evaluation, information, properties 1. Property Location and Surrounding Environment: a. Geographic location of the property b. Proximity to residential areas, water bodies, and other sensitive environmental receptors c. Existing land use and zoning regulations 2. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting: a. Determine if the property owner/operator possesses valid operating permits and environmental compliance records b. Review compliance history with state and federal regulations, including emissions, wastewater, and hazardous materials handling 3. Water Resources: a. Identify and assess the water sources used for production activities (e.g., groundwater, surface water) b. Evaluate water quality and availability, especially in relation to local and regional water rights regulations c. Investigate potential sources of contamination, such as nearby drilling operations or chemical storage facilities 4. Air Quality: a. Evaluate air emissions generated by the property's production activities b. Assess compliance with the Clean Air Act and other relevant air quality regulations c. Determine the proximity of the property to air quality designated areas 5. Waste Management and Hazardous Materials: a. Review waste management practices, including storage, disposal, and recycling of waste materials generated on-site b. Assess compliance with hazardous waste regulations, especially regarding the handling of chemicals, fuels, and other potential contaminants 6. Spill Prevention and Response: a. Understand spill prevention measures in place, like secondary containment, spill prevention controls, and fencing b. Review emergency response plans for spill incidents to ensure their adequacy and compliance with regulations 7. Site Assessments and Remediation: a. Obtain historical information about prior site assessments and environmental investigations b. Evaluate the presence of any ongoing or completed remediation activities c. Determine if environmental liability might exist due to past contamination or spills 8. Ecological Impact: a. Identify sensitive habitats, protected species, or critical ecological areas in proximity to the property b. Assess potential adverse impacts on the ecosystem, including wildlife, flora, and water bodies 9. Soil Contamination: a. Investigate any potential soil contamination from spills, improper waste disposal, or historical land use b. Assess the need for soil testing and remediation measures Types of New Mexico Checklists for Evaluating Environmental Matters on Producing Properties: 1. New Mexico Checklist of Information for Oil and Gas Producing Properties 2. New Mexico Checklist of Information for Mining Producing Properties 3. New Mexico Checklist of Information for Agricultural Producing Properties 4. New Mexico Checklist of Information for Manufacturing Producing Properties Conclusion: Evaluating environmental matters associated with producing properties in New Mexico is crucial to ensure responsible and sustainable operations. By obtaining and evaluating the information outlined in this checklist, investors and property owners can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and enhance environmental stewardship in their operations.