Deep Bury / Pit Closures

After drilling and completion operations are finished, the drilling pit (or reserve pit) is required to be dewatered and buried to restore land back to its natural state. This remediation process is often referred to as a pit closure, or deep bury. During the remediation process, reserve pits are dewatered, leaving only drilling mud behind. The mud is then dried and a hole is excavated adjacent to the reserve pit so it can be buried. These holes are often 18’ to 22’ deep and allow for 3’ to 6’ of natural top soil to cover the hole. Many operators and surface lease agreements find it best practice to line the hole with a 6 to 20 mil liner prior to burying the drilling mud. Our practice of burying drilling pits and restoring the land to its natural state has been recommended by the Texas Railroad Commission and is seen as the regulatory standard in many areas.