DATE ISSUED: Dec. 17, 2019

The BC Energy Regulator (Regulator) is developing a restoration framework to address key recommendations from the Auditor General of British Columbia. Developing the framework helps to advance the discussion on ecologically suitable reclamation of oil and gas sites, and contemplates the development of refined reclamation guidance and standards in the context of the obligations outlined in the Dormancy Regulation.

The Regulator’s restoration framework will address the following key recommendations in a recent report about the management of non-operating oil and gas sites from the Auditor General of British Columbia:

• Review restoration regulations and guidelines and make changes as needed to ensure the expected outcomes and timelines for ecologically suitable revegetation are clear.
• Include surface reclamation (Part II of the Certificate of Restoration) as part of the Regulator’s restoration verification program to ensure sites are adequately reclaimed.
• Continue to partner with local First Nations to identify and implement improvements to restoration policies and practices.
• Report annually on the outcomes of site restoration activities to ensure transparency and accountability to the legislature, the public and First Nations.

The framework will define expectations for reclamation planning and implementation that promote ecologically suitable restoration outcomes, cultural continuity, and continuous improvement through transparent performance reporting requirements. Expectations are also anticipated to help guide strategic restoration initiatives focused on legacy oil and gas disturbances.

Ongoing engagement with industry, First Nations and other government agencies, coupled with extensive review of restoration requirements in other jurisdictions, will be important considerations during the development of the framework. Early engagement on the framework has been ongoing through 2019, with updated reclamation guidance and standards scheduled for the 2021 growing season.

If you have any questions regarding this Industry Bulletin, please contact:

Scott Wagner
Manager, Aquatic & Terrestrial Habitat
BC Energy Regulator

Scott.Wagner@bcogc.ca
250-419-4348