The picture above demonstrates why our organization exists. It is a common oil tank site outside of Sweetwater, Texas. Unfortunately, there is nothing uncommon about the state of this particular site. It is one of thousands, and the signs of disregard and contamination are obvious.
The United States is unique in that private individuals and organizations can own mineral rights. Thus, parties can contract directly with the oil company and include additional environmental protections that go beyond the regulated minimums. Private parties can also keep a closer eye on these properties than underfunded or understaffed government agencies.
Two of our core programs directly address these issues. ECOSite conducts well site inspections and looks for signs of pollution or contamination. The Mineral Gift Initiative aims to partner with mineral owners who are interested in donating their interests to ERGF so that we can be a long-term steward of these interests.
