Investigation of Alleged False Reporting to Avoid Plugging and Abandonment Costs

OIG and the Bureau of Land Management – Special Investigations Group investigated allegations that an oil and gas company falsely reported production on a well that was incapable of producing to avoid plugging and abandonment costs and prevent expiration of the Federal mineral lease.

 

We found that no reporting violation occurred, and the company took corrective action as directed by BLM. Therefore, the allegation was unsubstantiated.

 

This is a summary of a report of investigation that we issued to the Bureau of Land Management.