Trump Administration Considers Changes to Methane Rules for Stripper Wells

The meeting included Hilcorp owner Jeffery Hildebrand, whose company operates many low-producing wells. Hilcorp owns thousands of stripper wells that produce small amounts of oil and gas. These wells account for about 6 percent of U.S. production but have been linked to roughly half of the industry's methane emissions in recent studies.

Methane is a greenhouse gas that can trap more heat than carbon dioxide. Stripper wells are often older and less monitored, which can lead to leaks. Satellite data recorded a methane release of 199 kilograms per hour from one Hilcorp well in New Mexico in June 2025. Infrared camera operators from Earthworks observed leaks at seven of eight Hilcorp sites visited in August 2025.

The Biden administration issued methane restrictions in 2024 that would affect companies operating older wells. Hilcorp has stated that its wells comply with state and federal rules and that it inspects sites monthly. Trump has named a former Hilcorp lobbyist to a position at the Environmental Protection Agency.

The agency is reviewing the methane rules with input from industry groups. Hilcorp spokesperson Nick Piatek said the company is proud of recent efforts to reduce emissions. Stripper wells are subject to fewer federal requirements if drilled before 2012.