It’s called ‘green completions,’ and it’s moving natural gas production forward with amazing results.

In short: The completions process separates natural gas from water, sand and other materials without flaring — a technique that burns off gas vapors while reducing emissions. The retained gas is caught and added to production, ultimately leading to increased volume. In fact, the new high-pressure, flowback unit captures 90 percent of the gas typically lost at well completion. By using this system, Williams helps protect air quality, reduces the risk of fires and conserves energy.

Since we began utilizing green completions procedures, the practice has been recognized for air quality protection and energy conservation by the Environmental Protection Agency. What’s more, conservation groups have called for other producers to follow our lead in adopting this best practice.

Green completions are another example of Williams’ commitment to responsible energy development, including ventures such as funding easements for elk and deer migration corridors. Or studying land optimization techniques with Colorado State University. Or even planting trees: When the Red Apple Fire scorched 800 acres of Colorado countryside, Williams donated seed and saplings. We even purchased helmets for the Rifle High School football team when coaches, parents and kids — like Sara Cesark (pictured above) — helped plant 3,000 trees.

Even though Williams is one of the county’s largest natural gas producers, we’re more proud of our natural by-product: an unwavering commitment to our environment and our communities.