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Exploring Mewbourne Oil Company’s Impact in Carlsbad, New Mexico
The American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) recently organized an educational field tour for congressional staff from personal member offices and committees to Carlsbad, New Mexico. The delegation visited Mewbourne Oil Company’s operations to gain firsthand insight into the oil and natural gas drilling, completion, and production process and its significance to the local and state economy.
The group also had an opportunity to hear directly from BLM’s state and field office staff about its processes, workload and permitting-related initiatives in the Permian Basin. The opportunity allowed energy policy staffers to gain a deeper understanding of the industry, providing them with practical knowledge and perspectives to inform their policy decisions.
One attendee remarked, “Learning about the production operations in the Permian Basin with on-site experts taught me more than I could have ever learned in D.C. It was an incredible experience, and I cannot thank you enough for the opportunity.”
Understanding the Oil and Gas Production Process
Mewbourne Oil Company, a key player in the Permian Basin, operates numerous well pads in southeastern New Mexico. During the tour, participants observed first-hand the various stages of extraction and development, including drilling, completion and finally production. This hands-on experience provided a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects involved in bringing oil and natural gas from underground reservoirs to the surface.
Economic Contributions and Investments to Carlsbad and Eddy County
The oil and gas industry’s presence in southeast New Mexico significantly underpins the state and local economy. New Mexico is one of the United States’ leading producers, ranking 2nd in annual oil production and 5th in annual natural gas production. In fiscal year 2024, New Mexico’s oil and gas industry funded $13 billion in state and local revenue.1
The tour included meetings with local stakeholders who highlighted how oil and gas revenues have been instrumental in funding public services. In fiscal year 2024, the industry contributed $2.3 billion in tax revenue toward education spending in New Mexico, including $279 million specifically allocated for school construction and renovation.2 In Carlsbad, this funding facilitated the rebuilding of public schools and the introduction of programs like STEM labs, enhancing educational opportunities for students.3
Sustained Benefits Through Collaboration
The visit underscored the vital role of the oil and gas industry in supporting New Mexico’s economy, local communities, and public services. Continued collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers is essential to sustain these benefits and ensure responsible energy development. By working together, we can address environmental concerns, optimize resource management, promote sustainable practices and find a balanced approach that benefits both the community and the industry.
[1] [2] TRI Report
[3] Oil and gas industry supports education through funding and resources | New Mexico Sun
