The development of this Handbook was initiated by the Western Governors’ Association (WGA) which believes that Coal Bed Methane (CBM) represents a key component of our nation’s energy supply and, accordingly, should continue to be developed. WGA recognizes the importance of CBM and the need by private industry, and state, local and federal officials to develop this critical resource in an environmentally sound manner. 

The Western Governors, therefore, called for coordination and sharing of information that promotes the sound, efficient and environmentally responsible development of CBM.  The Governors believe that many issues might be alleviated through sharing of information and active implementation of best management practices across the states and the private sector.

The Governors called for the use of the Enlibra principles in addressing CBM conflicts. (See Appendix B). Based on the presentations and the facilitated discussion at a breakout session during the WGA and the Council on Environmental Quality Environmental Summit on the West II, held in Salt Lake City in April 2002, a set of consensus recommendations were developed that WGA later incorporated into a policy resolution on CBM. 

With this guidance, the WGA sought funding to engage the CBM industry, all levels of government, and other stakeholders to build a Handbook of Best Management Practices (BMPs). The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, and the US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provided the funding to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders with an interest in CBM to guide the development of the Handbook (the WGA Coal Bed Methane Advisory Committee). The members of the Committee are listed in Appendix C. 

Other Resources

Sample Surface Use Agreements