The Threat of Idled Oil and Gas Wells on Public Land

Across Colorado, oil and gas companies pay for a lot more than just jobs and equipment. They pay taxes that fund countless public services. So, what does it mean for a local government if oil and gas revenues become more uncertain?

Revenue from oil and gas in Utah hasn’t recovered since plummeting earlier this year. That means government grants and loans that rely on energy royalties have less in their coffers, just when communities need it the most. Justin Higginbottom with KZMU Radio in Moab reports.

The coronavirus is negatively impacting much of the U.S. economy, particularly energy markets. High Country News writer and former Durango resident Jonathan Thompson has covered oil and gas for a long time. He says the pandemic hasn't had much effect on natural gas. But oil is a different story. And the fallout will affect everybody, as KSUT Reporter Mark Duggan explains: