Records Appraisal Report:
Railroad Commission, Part Two

Contents of this report
Agency Contact | Record Series Reviews

Internal links to series reviews
Operator/responsible party cleanup files
Organization report
W-1X: Application for future re-entry of inactive wellbore and 14(B)(2) extension permit
Reclamation plant permits: active and inactive
H-15: Test on an inactive well more than 25 years old, type B: mechanical integrity test
H-9: Certificate of compliance statewide rule 36 (hydrogen sulfide)
Seismic well files: non-permitted
Cathodic wells
Wells plugged with state funds
Closed administrative penalty cases
Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination
D-Forms (Pollution/water well contamination)
Plats
Orders
Hearing files re: exceptions to Statewide Rule 21
Hearing files - Yates and Diamond "M" Unit
Miscellaneous hearing files
Hearings, Panhandle Field
State Tender Board hearing
Statewide hearing summary
Survey of salt water disposal
Correspondence and reports
Correspondence, applications
Correspondence re: gas production
Correspondence re: East Texas Field
Reports of wells producing by artificial methods in the East Texas Field
Miscellaneous reports, East Texas Field
Oil and casinghead gas production reports, Panhandle Field
Panhandle reports
Oil and gas files, Rodessa Field
Proration violation files
Master record of supplemental allowables
Salt water production worksheets and statistical reports
Injection reports
Miscellaneous oil and gas reports
Monthly operator reports, gas wells
Light and fuel commingling reports
Bottom hole pressure reports
Stock and refinery reports
Reports, various oil and gas topics
Tank bottom cleaning files
Vacuum hearing files
Gas potential test files
Refinery audit material
Air or gas lift forms
Pipeline hearings and miscellaneous data
Administrative correspondence
Geographic Information System, rail maps layer
Railroad abandonments
Annual reports, railroad companies
Rail tariff files
Administrative correspondence (RAP)
Speeches and papers (RAP)
Annual financial reports (gas utility companies)
Pipeline related: Accident files reports and associated documentation
Annual reports, pipeline companies
Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines
Digital data pipeline map files - electronic
Pipeline map source data
Gas utilities litigation files
Special project files/plans and planning records
Docket files
Docket files - exceptions
Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders)
Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders)
Natural Gas Policy Act Files
Pipeline correspondence re: oil losses
Pipeline tariff reports
Interstate Commerce Commission report
Executive orders
Administrative correspondence
Publication development files
Reports and studies (non-fiscal)
Plans and planning records
Abandoned mine lands files
Abandoned mine lands planning files
Coal mining permit applications, issued
Coal mining permit files
Correspondence, administrative (court cases)
Lands unsuitable petitions
Correspondence - administrative (SMRD rules files)
Interim SMRD rules
Mining statistics reports (annual)
Uranium mining permit applications
Uranium mining permit files
Quarry and pit "pit" files
Quarry and pit administrative files
Abandoned mine lands, South, East, West Texas inventory
Plans and planning records
Motor transportation transcripts
Cancelled or denied orders
Motor carrier dockets
Motor freight docket files
Arkansas-White-Red River Basin studies

Glossary

Related report
Railroad Commission, Part One

Archival finding aid
Railroad Commission of Texas: An Overview of Records at the Texas State Archives, 1836-1867, 1873-1885, 1890-2001 (bulk 1891-1996)

Laura K. Saegert, Appraisal Archivist, March 16, 2001

Agency Contact

Agency contact information for each series was current at the time of the report but may have changed in the interim. Please call (512-463-5455) for current contact information of the agency's records manager or records liaison for these records.

Record Series Reviews

Records Series Review
Series Title:
Operator/responsible party cleanup files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Site Remediation

Contact: Jill Edwards

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
According to the retention schedule the original paper record is retained for three years after the file is closed, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Records in this series have not yet been microfilmed. The agency will eventually microfilm or scan the records. Dates covered are 1996-[ongoing]. Files comprise about two cubic feet and are maintained in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. The series has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These files contain correspondence, consultant reports, status reports, plats, photographs, etc., concerning long-term cleanups of oil and gas pollution by operators, usually large corporations, conducted under Railroad Commission supervision. Dates covered are 1996-[ongoing]. Incidents requiring cleanup include ground water or surface pollution from oil or gas leaks or spills, salt water pollution of ground water, etc. When a complaint regarding oil or gas pollution is filed, a RRC district office investigates. The office evaluates the site and determines what type of cleanup is needed. The operator or company sends the plans for the cleanup to the RRC for approval. Once approved, the cleanup begins and is usually undertaken in stages that could last years. The operator sends status or progress reports to the RRC. Large cleanups are handled directly through the Austin office. Smaller cleanups are handled in the district offices. See the series Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination (4.115) for district office files regarding the complaint investigations and inspections. See the series D-forms: (pollution/water well contamination) (4.118) for the district files regarding cleanups. For files on cleanups undertaken directly by the Railroad Commission, see the series Abandoned site candidate (4.085).

These files may be involved in litigation. Portions of the files are exempted from public disclosure when litigation is threatened or pending. See Texas Government Code, Section 552.022 (1), 552.101, 552.103, 552.107, 552.108, and 552.111.

These cleanup files are maintained for 100 years by the RRC because ground water and surface pollution by oil and gas operations may have environmental impact.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
The records are created in the course of cleanup operations of oil and gas polluted sites by operators/responsible parties under RRC supervision.

Agency program:
The Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry to prevent the waste of resources and to protect property rights and the environment. It oversees hazardous materials pipelines and natural gas pipelines and distribution systems as well as propane, butane, compressed natural gas, and liquefied natural gas. The Commission licenses and conducts seminars for dealers and their employees. It also oversees: railroad safety and rail planning; surface mining for coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel; and land reclamation when mining is complete.

Four divisions have regulatory functions: the Gas Services Division, the Oil and Gas Division, the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division, and the Rail Division. The Office of the General Counsel's Enforcement Section has enforcement powers, and the Alternative Fuels Research and Education Division has research and education functions. Support divisions include the Public Information Office, Personnel, Finance and Administration, Information Technology Services, Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Office of Internal Audit. Three elected Commissioners direct the operations of the agency.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Oil and Gas Division works to prevent the waste of oil, gas, and geothermal resources and to prevent the pollution of fresh water from oil and gas operations. The division holds statewide hearings on market demand and provides for equitable production among operators by establishing monthly production allowables. It issues drilling permits, reviews and approves oil and gas well completions, collects data on oil and gas operations, and promotes public safety. It also protects underground drinking water through regulation of the underground injection of fluids in oil field operations, a program approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. It oversees well plugging operations, site remediation, underground hydrocarbon storage, hazardous waste management; and maintains a large amount of data on wells - their location, production, etc. The division also investigates complaints and conducts investigations. This division maintains 10 district offices where field enforcement and support personnel monitor oil and gas operations. The commission does not have the authority to set oil and gas prices at the wellhead. The departments within the Oil and Gas Division are: Administration, Permitting/Production Services, Information Management Services, Environmental Services, Compliance, and the Oil Field Cleanup Operations Unit (including Site Remediation and Special Response, and Well Plugging).

Arrangement: By date the file is closed (fiscal year, month), district, then by operator name.

Access constraints:
Portions of the files are exempted from public disclosure when litigation is threatened or pending. See Texas Government Code, Section 552.022 (1), 552.101, 552.103, 552.107, 552.108, and 552.111.

Use constraints:
Records are restricted from use until any litigation involving the case is settled.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Operator/responsible party cleanup files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.088
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These files concern cleanups of pollution of ground water and the surface from oil and gas operations - spills, leaks, etc., by operators/responsible parties. Because of the high environmental concerns with both the pollution and the thoroughness of the cleanup, these files have long-term administrative and archival value as cleanups of pollutants need to be documented. This series has been appraised as archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. The RRC feels it needs to keep the records in-house 100 years; I recommend a shorter retention period, perhaps keeping the files 50 years at the agency, then transferring the files to the Archives. Records can be transferred when they have fulfilled the retention period and there is no possibility of litigation. There are no files ready for transfer to the Archives at this time. RRC has said it may scan the records and keep the scanned images in place of the originals. If the records are scanned, it will be the responsibility of the Railroad Commission to comply with 13 Texas Administrative Code, Section 6.95 (b), on the Final Disposition of Electronic Records, as follows: "An electronic state record that is an archival record must be maintained by the agency through hardware and software migrations and upgrades as authentic evidence of the state's business in accessible and searchable form, except as otherwise determined by the state archivist."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Organization report

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Permitting

Contact: Tim Poe

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 5.5 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for one year then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Dates of the records are 1965-[ongoing]. Files are comprised of 255 microfilm rolls, and current year holdings of paper, 5.5 cubic feet. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The series has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These are reports (form P-5) required to be filed annually by all organizations engaged in oil and gas operations in Texas. Dates covered are 1965-[ongoing]. Each report contains the organization's name and address; the name, title, driver's license number or state ID number, and address of the three primary officers; plan of the organization; name and address of associated company (if this one is a subsidiary); and the RRC operator number and name/address of the previous organization (if this is a reorganization). After the initial filing, the RRC assigns the company an RRC operator number that will be used in future forms/reports to the RRC. No production data is included. Attachments include bonds and letters of credit, franchise tax certification, and a list of all officers or holders with 25% or more interest in the company. Some data from the organization reports is copied to and maintained in an in-house database.

Annual organization reports of companies engaged in oil and gas operations in Texas are filed in accordance with Statewide Rule 1 (16 TAC, §3.1). The rule requires that the organization report be filed with the Railroad Commission and that all officers, directors, general partners, owners of more than 25 percent ownership interest, or trustees be listed.

The organization reports are accessed frequently, for liability issues (if there is a problem in production, etc.), and to check the officers of companies. The agency is maintaining the reports for 100 years because of long-term legal value.

Purpose:
The records report organizational data about companies engaged in the oil and gas business in Texas as required by Statewide Rule 1 (16 TAC, §3.1).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Reports from 1965 to 1984 are arranged by alphabetical order by operator name. Reports from 1985 forward are arranged in numerical order by operator number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes. There is an index to the microfilm.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Organization reports (P-5) - several destruction requests were submitted between March 1686 and April 1997 to destroy paper records dating 1985-1996 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Organization report
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.089
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No reports are present prior to 1965.

Appraisal decision:
These are organization reports for companies engaged in the oil and gas business in Texas. The reports require approval by the Commission for the company to continue operations in Texas. The reports are a good source of general information about each company, its structure, and the officers/directors/interest holders. There is long-term administrative value to the RRC to retain information about companies in case of leaks, spills, or other problems that may occur years after a well was drilled or plugged. The Archives has organization reports from gas utility companies, railroad companies, and telephone and electric utility companies. The oil and gas company reports do not have as much information as is in the other organization reports mentioned, but are the best source at the RRC.

This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. The RRC feels it needs to keep the records in-house 100 years; I recommend a shorter retention period, perhaps keeping the files 50 years at the agency, then transferring the files to the Archives. As this series began in 1965, there are no files eligible for transfer to the Archives at this time.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
W-1X: Application for future re-entry of inactive wellbore and 14(B)(2) extension permit

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Permitting

Contact: Tim Poe

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: about 15 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained four years after the file is closed, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Dates of the paper records are 1995-[ongoing], comprising 44 cubic feet. Dates of the microfilm are 1988-1994 and consist of 10 rolls. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The series has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These are requests by operators to the Railroad Commission for well plugging extensions. Dates covered are 1988-[ongoing]. Information on the application (form W-1X) includes the operator's name, address, ID number, and RRC district number; field and lease names; and a list of wells for an extension, with the oil lease or gas ID number, the well number, American Petroleum Institute (API) number, date inactive, county located in, and the current permit extension number or the docket number. If a well is inactive for a year, it has to be plugged. Operators request an extension by submitting these forms (W-1X). The extensions are good for a year. The requests need to be approved before the RRC approves the operator's organization report. The requests also have to be filed when a new operator takes over a well, even if a current extension is on file. This series contains active and inactive permits. All wells for which extensions are requested must have on file with the Railroad Commission W-2 forms (oil well potential tests and logs) and G-1 forms (pressure tests and logs for gas wells).

The process for granting extensions to plugging wells is regulated by Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14). Extensions are required to be filed for gas wells inactive for one year or more; oil wells inactive for a year or more; uncompleted but cased wells, where drilling has ceased for a year or more.

The files are used heavily in enforcement actions to prove or disprove whether a well is plugged. The agency is maintaining the files for 100 years.

Purpose:
By these requests operators request well-plugging extensions as allowed under Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Paper records are arranged chronologically by year then by RRC organization number. Microfilm is arranged chronologically by year then by operator number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes, for the microfilm.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: W-1X: Application for future re-entry of inactive wellbore and 14(B)(2) extension
permit
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.090
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1988.

Appraisal decision:
These are permits to allow operators another year before having to plug inactive wells. I agree with the agency that these permits do have legal value in that they are used in enforcement to prove or disprove a well was plugged. The records can document that an inactive well was not plugged at a particular time. Dates of wells plugging are available in other series. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. The RRC is keeping these permit files for 100 years because of long-term legal value. That is more than a sufficient retention period for this series. Since this series does not have an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Reclamation plant permits: active and inactive

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Permitting

Contact: Tim Poe

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained permanently in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Dates covered are 1978-[ongoing]. Files comprise 4.5 linear feet. (1.5 feet are active permits, 3 feet are inactive permits). The agency will begin microfilming the files shortly.

Older reclamation plant permits dating 1957-1959 are stored separately in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division. The older files consist of about 1.5 cubic feet.

Description:
These are application packets (form R-9 and attachments) and permits to operate reclamation plants. Dates covered are 1957-1959, 1978-[ongoing]. Information on the application includes the operator's name and address, operator number, county plant is located in, driving directions to the facility, type of facility (permanent/portable), description of the treating process, types of vehicles material are transported in, and a list of other oil and/or gas-related facilities within 100 yards. Attachments include a public notice, a sketch of facility, closing cost of facility and a plan, Railroad Commission (RRC) engineer reviews of facility, and possibly bonds or letters of credit. Monthly reports (form R-2) of plant operations are filed in the series Plants/refinery reports (4.035).

Reclamation plants separate usable products from oil and gas sludge. Operators apply for permits to the RRC. If a protest is filed, the RRC will likely hold a hearing. If a hearing is held, additional documentation is found in the series Hearing files (4.011, 4.012).

Issuing permits to operate reclamation plants is regulated by Statewide Rule 57 (16 TAC, §3.57). The rule concerns "the reclamation of tank bottoms and other hydrocarbon wastes generated through activities associated with the exploration, development, and production (including transportation) of crude oil and other waste materials containing oil, as those activities are defined in §3.8(a)(30) of this title (relating to Water Protection)."

The agency is maintaining the permit files permanently because of the potential for pollution and related environmental concerns.

Purpose:
Reclamation plant permits are issued for the operation of reclamation plants in accordance with Statewide Rule 57 (16 TAC, §3.57).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by operator name.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Reclamation plant permits: active and inactive
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.091
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records present prior to 1957. There is a gap between 1959 and 1978.

Appraisal decision:
These are application files and permits issued for the operation of reclamation plants. The files have long-term administrative value for the agency in carrying on its role of environmental protection. The RRC needs to retain the reclamation plant permits permanently in its role of regulating the oil and gas industry and providing a measure of environmental protection by monitoring the operation of reclamation plants. These files have long-term administrative value to the agency by reporting on processing operations in reclamation plants. Monthly reports of plant operations are filed in the series Plants/refinery reports (4.035). Reclamation plant operators are listed in an annual published directory of active oil and gas organizations registered with the RRC. And, for situations where there is opposition to a plant's operations, a hearing is held by the RRC, see the series Hearing files (4.011, 4.012). This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since the series does not contain an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
H-15: Test on an inactive well more than 25 years old, type B: mechanical integrity test

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Permitting

Contact: Tim Poe

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: about 1 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for two years after file is closed, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Dates of the paper records are 1998-[ongoing], comprising two cubic feet. The microfilm is dated 1993-1997 and consists of 4 rolls. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are housed in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The series has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
The files record tests intended to show that an inactive well is not a pollution threat (form H-15 plus test results). Dates covered are 1993-[ongoing]. These tests are conducted on inactive wells that are 25 years old or older or wells that have had four or more W-1X extensions (well-plugging extensions see the series W-1X: application for future re-entry of inactive wellbore and 14(b)(2) extension permit (4.090).). Information on the form (H-15) includes the operator's name, address, RRC number, field name, lease name, oil or gas lease ID number, well number, American Petroleum Institute (API) number, county located in, drilling date of wellbore, date test performed, base of deepest usable quality water, type of test performed (fluid or mechanical integrity), and approved/not approved note by the Railroad Commission staff who reviewed the test.

An annual fluid level test is performed to determine if there is adequate separation between the base of the deepest usable-quality water at the location of the wellbore and the top of the fluid in the wellbore. These tests are filed in the series H-15: Test on an inactive well more than 25 years old, type A: annual fluid level test (4.092) [this series has a retention of AC+1 and is not being reviewed]. The other test performed is a mechanical integrity test, filed in this series. The well is pressured up and the integrity of the well is observed for a short period of time. The test also provides the plug depth and base of the deepest usable water quality depth. The chart of the test and procedures followed by the operator for testing are reviewed by RRC district office staff. Once this test is performed and approved, it need not be done for another five years. Mechanical integrity tests on brine wells and underground hydrocarbon storage wells are in the series Mechanical integrity tests (4.082). Tests of disposal and injection wells are in the series H-5: Disposal/injection well test reports (4.046).

The mechanical integrity tests are required by Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14 (b)(2)). The rule regulates the plugging of wells. Section 3.14 (b)(2)(E) states the "operator of any well more than 25 years old that becomes inactive and subject to the provisions of this paragraph shall plug or test such well to determine whether the well poses a potential threat of harm to natural resources, including surface and subsurface water, oil and gas." It goes on to detail both the fluid tests and mechanical integrity tests.

The agency is maintaining the records for 100 years because of environmental concerns. The test results have some environmental data. The files are also used to ascertain if a well was leaking at a given point in time.

Purpose:
These files record mechanical integrity tests on inactive wells more than 25 years old in accordance with Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14 (b)(2)).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Paper records are arranged by RRC district number. Microfilm records are arranged chronologically by year, then district, then alpha by operator name.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes, for the microfilm.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: H-15: Test on an inactive well more than 25 years old, type B: mechanical
integrity test
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.093
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1993.

Appraisal decision:
These are forms with mechanical integrity tests that are intended to show an inactive well is not a pollution threat. There is some environmental data in the test results and the tests have value as they can be used to document if a well was leaking at a given point in time. There is not any archival value in these files as they track the mechanical integrity of the well over time and not the operation of the well. The RRC feels the need to retain the mechanical integrity tests for 100 years in its role of regulating the oil and gas industry and providing a measure of environmental protection by monitoring the mechanical integrity of wells. A 100 year retention at the RRC is sufficient maintenance of this record. Since this series did not contain an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
H-9: Certificate of compliance statewide rule 36 (hydrogen sulfide)

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Compliance/Well Plugging, Field Operations, Austin Headquarters

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: unknown

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained until the well/lease is plugged or operator changes, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are housed in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The series has a retention period of 100 years. Dates covered are ?-[ongoing]. Files comprise XX cubic feet.

Description:
These are certificates of compliance filed by operators with the Railroad Commission concerning oil/gas operations in a hazardous gas area. Dates covered are ?-[ongoing]. These certificates let the RRC know that the operation is in a hazardous gas area and if the public is exposed. Each certificate gives the name, address, and ID number of the operator; the type of operation; the name and location of the pipeline or plant; lease and field names; county; the concentration and volume of hydrogen sulfide gas; whether the wells are active or inactive; and the location and address of the contingency plan (in case of problems). The certificates are superseded when a new operator takes over. The certificates are filed in triplicate at the appropriate district office, with one copy forwarded to the state RRC headquarters in Austin. All data is also maintained in an in-house database.

If a protest is filed, the RRC will likely hold a hearing. If a hearing is held, additional documentation can be found in the series Hearing files (4.011, 4.012).

The process of filing certificates of compliance concerning oil or gas operations that may involve the release of hydrogen sulfide is regulated by Statewide Rule 36 (16 TAC, §3.36). The rule concerns providing safeguards to protect the general public from the harmful effects of hydrogen sulfide. The rule applies to both intentional and accidental releases of hydrogen sulfide in "operations including drilling, working over, producing, injecting, gathering, processing, transporting, and storage of hydrocarbon fluids that are part of, or directly related to, field production, transportation, and handling of hydrocarbon fluids that contain gas in the system that has hydrogen sulfide as a constituent of the gas, to the extent as specified in subsection (c) of this section."

The certificates are maintained by the agency for 100 years because of the dangers of hydrogen sulfide gas exposure.

Purpose:
The certificates of compliance record oil or gas operations that may involve the intentional or accidental release of hydrogen sulfide in accordance with Statewide Rule 36 (16 TAC, §3.36).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: H-9: Certificate of compliance statewide rule 36 (hydrogen sulfide)
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.104
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: unknown

Appraisal decision:
These are certificates of compliance that document oil or gas operations that may involve the intentional or accidental release of hydrogen sulfide. The RRC feels the need to retain the certificates for 100 years in its role of regulating the oil and gas industry and providing a measure of environmental protection by monitoring operations where hydrogen sulfide gas could be released. However, after the operations have ceased, the administrative value of this record will diminish over time as the danger of exposing gas lessens. The original paper record is retained until the well is plugged or the operator changes, then it is microfilmed. If the operator changes, then a new permit is issued and the cycle begins again. A 100 year retention at the RRC is sufficient maintenance of this record. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since it does not contain an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Seismic well files: non-permitted

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Compliance/Well Plugging, Field Operations, Austin Headquarters

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: unknown

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is maintained in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. The RRC intends to microfilm the records in the near future. The series has a retention period of 100 years. Dates covered are ca. 1990-[ongoing]. Files comprise XX cubic feet.

Description:
These are letters and attachments from operators to the Railroad Commission that state the operators are doing seismic work. Dates covered are ca. 1990-[ongoing]. Each letter includes the name and address of the operator, and the plugging date for each hole. Attachments include plats showing the location of seismic shot holes, the plugging procedures used, and a letter from the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission stating the protection depth or depths of ground water. Seismic holes are drilled for the purpose of obtaining geophysical information to be used in the exploration or development of oil, gas, geothermal, or other mineral resources. When operators do seismic testing they have to ensure that the ground water is protected from contaminants and that the contaminants do not penetrate the base of usable quality water.

Letters stating an operator is doing seismic work are filed in accordance with Statewide Rule 100 (16 TAC, §3.100). The rule regulates drilling of seismic or core holes for the purpose of obtaining geophysical information to be used in the exploration or development of oil, gas, geothermal, or other mineral resources.

The agency maintains the seismic well files for 100 years in case of problems with contamination of fresh water zones. The agency would prefer to keep them permanently.

Purpose:
Operator statements to the RRC that seismic work is being performed are filed in accordance with Statewide Rule 100 (16 TAC, §3.100).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Seismic well files: non permitted
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.107
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: unknown

Appraisal decision:
These files document seismic testing done as part of the process of oil and gas exploration. The agency maintains these seismic well files long-term (they want to change that to permanent) in case of future problems with contamination of the fresh water zone. Through these files the agency can track where the holes were located and when they were plugged. This information is not available elsewhere and has long-term administrative value as well as possibly archival value in documenting the locations of the holes used in seismic testing. The RRC needs to retain the seismic well records permanently in its role of regulating the oil and gas industry and providing a measure of environmental protection by monitoring and tracking seismic testing. Because the Railroad Commission is keeping the records permanently, the Archives is not appraising this series at this time. If this function should be discontinued in the future and the records no longer retained by the RRC or an agency performing this function, the Archives will review these files for archival value. Change the retention period to PM. Add an archival code of R to the schedule and the following note in the Remarks column: "Records will be reviewed for archival value by the Library and Archives Commission if the Railroad Commission decides not to maintain the records permanently."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Cathodic wells

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Compliance/Well Plugging, Field Operations, Austin Headquarters

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: unknown

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. The RRC intends to microfilm the records in the near future. The retention period for this series is 100 years. Dates covered are ?-[ongoing]. Files comprise XX cubic feet.

Description:
These are letters and attachments sent to the Railroad Commission, and permits issued concerning the drilling of cathodic wells. Dates covered are ?-[ongoing]. The letter must include the completion date for each well, the name and address of the operator, and the drilling permit and API numbers of the well, if applicable. Attachments include a plat of the project area identifying the well locations, counties, survey lines, scale, and northerly direction; and a letter from the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission stating the protection depth or depths of ground water.

Cathodic protection wells are drilled for the purpose of installing one or more anodes to prevent corrosion of a facility associated with the production of oil, gas, or geothermal resources, such as a well casing, a storage and separation facility, or a pipeline. When operators drill cathodic wells they have to ensure that the ground water is protected from contaminants and that the contaminants do not penetrate the base of usable quality water.

Issuing permits for drilling cathodic protection wells is regulated by Statewide Rule 99 (16 TAC, §3.99).

The agency maintains the cathodic well files for 100 years in case of problems with contamination of fresh water zones. The agency would prefer to keep them permanently.

Purpose:
Cathodic wells are drilled in accordance with Statewide Rule 99 (16 TAC, §3.99).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Cathodic wells
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.108
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: unknown

Appraisal decision:
These files document cathodic wells drilled in the state. The agency maintains these well files long-term (they want to change that to permanent) in case of future problems with contamination of the fresh water zone. Through these files they can track where the wells were located and when they were plugged. These files are a comprehensive source of data about cathodic wells. The RRC needs to retain these records permanently in its role of regulating the oil and gas industry and providing a measure of environmental protection by monitoring the drilling of cathodic wells. Because the Railroad Commission is keeping the records permanently, the Archives is not appraising this series at this time. If this function should be discontinued in the future and the records no longer retained by the RRC or an agency performing this function, the Archives will review these files for archival value. Change the retention period to PM. Add an archival code of R to the schedule and the following note in the Remarks column: "Records will be reviewed for archival value by the Library and Archives Commission if the Railroad Commission decides not to maintain the records permanently."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Wells plugged with state funds

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division, Compliance/Well plugging, state-funded plugging

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: unknown

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is microfilmed as time permits. Once microfilmed, the paper record is destroyed. Dates covered are at least 1980 (maybe earlier)-[ongoing]. Files comprise XX cubic feet. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are maintained in the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The series has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These are reports, inspections, vouchers, plats, and other records concerning the plugging of wells by the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are at least 1980 (maybe earlier)-[ongoing]. These files concern wells abandoned by operators that the RRC must plug to prevent pollution or stop existing pollution. Data in the files includes contents of the wellbore, depth or penetration of the well, well location, plugging procedures, costs to plug the well, bid information, payments (vouchers), inspection information, previous plugging reports filed, and completion reports by the operator.

The plugging of wells is regulated by Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14 (b)(4)). Section 3.14 (b)(4) covers the plugging of wells by the state if the operator cannot be located.

The agency is maintaining these records for 100 years because of environmental concerns and to track when wells were plugged.

Purpose:
Wells are plugged with state funds in accordance with Statewide Rule 14 (16 TAC, §3.14 (b)(4)).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Wells plugged with state funds - two destruction requests were submitted in March 1690 and January 1991 to destroy paper records dating 1980-1986 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Wells plugged with state funds
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.111
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Unknown

Appraisal decision:
These files document wells that the state plugged to either prevent pollution from occurring or to stop existing pollution from the well. The records have long-term administrative value because of the pollution potential from unplugged wells. They can be used to track when wells were plugged. With the thousands of wells in the state, a permanent record should be kept of their plugging. This series documents wells the state had to plug because the wells were abandoned by operators. This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. The RRC wants to keep these records for 100 years to monitor for environmental problems, so the retention period can remain as is. There are currently no files in the series eligible for transfer to the Archives.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Closed administrative penalty cases

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division - Compliance/Well Plugging

Contact: Boyd Johnson, Director, Enforcement Section, Oil and Gas Section, Office of the General Counsel

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 40 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is microfilmed as time permits. Once microfilmed, the paper record is destroyed. Dates of the microfilm are 1971-1999. Paper records are dated 1999-2000. There are 40 cubic feet of paper records, 234 rolls of microfilm. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. The retention period for this series is 100 years.

Description:
These are closed case files containing investigation reports, complaints, final orders, agreed orders, etc., concerning administrative enforcement actions undertaken by the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are 1971-[ongoing]. The files concern administrative penalty cases, both penalties issued by the Railroad Commission and final orders of the Attorney General when that office was involved. The most common types of cases concern violations to Statewide Rule 14, that is, failure to produce from a well or to plug it within a set period of time; or Statewide Rule 8, the protection of water from oil and gas operations in the state. Other offenses, such as water pollution, are also subject to penalty. In a few of the more serious cases technical reports and other data gathered as part of the investigation may be present. Active case files are maintained in the Oil and Gas Section of the Office of the General Counsel. The active files are not currently on the retention schedule but will be added. Copies of case files that the Texas Attorney General was involved with should also be present in the Attorney General's Office.

The process documented in these records begins when the RRC is made aware of a violation by an operator and investigates. If the violation is substantiated, the Enforcement Section of the Oil and Gas Section of the General Counsel will write up a complaint, detailing the violation(s) and what is required of the operator to comply - for instance, paying a fine. In some cases a hearing is held when the operator can refute the charges; in some cases a default hearing is held when the charges are stated and the operator does not appear. If the operator refuses to comply, the Attorney General will get involved, eventually issuing a final order of compliance in the case. If the operator is able to work out a settlement with the RRC, the Commission issues an agreed order that will detail the terms of compliance. A copy of the final order or agreed order is also filed in the series Notices and orders (4.006, 4.007). Exhibits, reports, etc. from the hearings are in the series Hearing files (4.011, 4.012).

The Railroad Commission has the authority to administer administrative penalties in accordance with the Texas Natural Resources Code, Section 81.0531.

The agency retains the administrative penalty case files for 100 years because of environmental concerns.

Purpose:
These documents are created in the course of administrative enforcement actions taken by the Railroad Commission as allowed under the Texas Natural Resources Code, Section 81.0531.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Office of the General Counsel is the enforcement branch of the agency. The Oil and Gas Section holds hearings on matters dealing with producing, storing, transporting, reclaiming, and processing oil and gas. It also conducts hearings to determine responsibility for the proper plugging of abandoned wells and preventing and controlling oil and gas pollution.

Arrangement: By date, then case number.

Access constraints: None, these cases are all closed.

Use constraints: No

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? An index is available at the agency.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Closed administrative penalty cases - several destruction requests were submitted between May 1990 and March 1698 to destroy paper records dating 1971-1997 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Closed administrative penalty cases
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.113
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present in this series prior to 1971.

Appraisal decision:
These cases document enforcement actions of the Railroad Commission through administrative penalties. The final orders issued are the most important component of the case file, according to the legal staff. This series does not have the variety of records found in the series Hearing files (4.011, 4.012), but does document the investigation of violations, as well as actions taken by the RRC and the Attorney General. These are the files of closed cases. Active cases are confidential until settled. The active case files need to be added to the retention schedule. The RRC will be maintaining the administrative penalty case files for 100 years for situations that may involve long-term pollution issues. The orders are also filed in the Notices and orders series, providing sufficient archival documentation of these cases. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since this series does not contain an archival code no changes need to be made to it on the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division, Compliance/Well plugging, Field operations, district offices

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: varies within each district, generally from 0.5 to 3 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Paper record is retained in the district offices with copies of some files in the agency headquarters in Austin. Retention period is AC+5, but the agency wants to change the retention to permanent. The district offices maintain the record copy of the complaints and investigations. Overall dates covered are 1960s-[ongoing]. Dates and holdings of records in the district offices vary as follows: San Antonio - dates not given, files comprise less than 4 cubic ft; Houston - 1982-[ongoing], 0.3 cubic feet; Corpus Christi - 1992-[ongoing], 12 cubic feet; Kilgore - 1999-[ongoing], 75 linear feet; Abilene - water well complaints, no dates given (these are ongoing), 12 cubic feet and the pollution files, 1998-[ongoing], 20 cubic feet; San Angelo - 1968-[ongoing], about 35 cubic feet; Midland - 1960s-[ongoing], 80 linear feet; Wichita Falls - 1998-[ongoing] for pollution files and ca. 1980-[ongoing] for water well files, 5 cubic feet; District 10 - 1979-[ongoing], four cubic feet. Copies of portions of selected district files in the state office are dated 1993-[ongoing] and comprise 25 cubic feet.

Description:
These files contain complaints, investigation reports, correspondence, photographs, plats, etc. regarding the complaints and investigations of oil and/or gas polluted sites. Dates covered are 1960s-[ongoing]. Incidents requiring cleanup include ground water or surface pollution from oil or gas leaks or spills, salt water pollution of ground water, etc. Some of the investigation files contain extensive studies of water quality and/or water contamination.

District staff of the Railroad Commission investigate complaints filed regarding oil and gas pollution. They evaluate the site and determine what type of cleanup is needed. The operator or company sends the plans for the cleanup to the RRC for approval. Once approved, the cleanup begins and is usually undertaken in stages. Large cleanups can take years. The operator sends status or progress reports to the RRC. Large cleanups are handled directly through the state office, smaller cleanups are handled in the district offices. For cleanups undertaken directly by the state, the cleanup work may be handled by outside consultants in addition to RRC staff. The district RRC investigators file periodic reports documenting the cleanup process. Some of the district files are copied and sent to RRC headquarters in Austin, but not all parts of the district file are copied. The district offices maintain the record copy of the complaints and investigations, and of the smaller cleanups they handle.

See the series D-Forms (Pollution/water well contamination) (4.118) for district office files of complaint inspections and cleanups. The D-forms report site cleanup. There are no comprehensive final reports at either the state or district offices on cleanups. For files on cleanups undertaken directly by the Railroad Commission, see the series Abandoned site candidate (4.085). Files concerning the cleanup of sites by the operators under RRC supervision are in the series Operator/responsible part cleanup files (4.088).

Although the retention schedule states these compliance files are to be maintained for only five years after closure of the case, the RRC district offices have not disposed of any files. The agency wants to change the retention period to permanent because of the effect that pollution of the ground water or the surface by oil and gas operations has on the environment. These files are also extremely important in tracking the condition of wells and aquifers over a long period of time.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
The records are created and maintained during investigations undertaken by the Railroad Commission of sites polluted by oil and gas operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: varies by district, as follows: San Antonio - by county, complainant; Houston - by county, operator; Corpus Christi - by complainant; Kilgore - by county, operator, lease; Abilene - water well files by county, property owner and pollution files by operator, lease name; San Angelo - by county; Midland - by complainant; Wichita Falls - by county, complaint name; District 10 - by operator, lease. Copies filed in the state office are arranged by county, operator.

Access constraints:
Yes. These files may be involved in litigation. Portions of the files are exempted from public disclosure when litigation is threatened or pending. See Texas Government Code, Section 552.022 (1), 552.101, 552.103, 552.107, 551.108, and 552.111.

Use constraints: Some files are only available in the district offices.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.115
Archival code: none
Retention: AC+5

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. According to agency staff, no files have been discarded.

Appraisal decision:
These compliance files document complaints and investigations of oil and gas pollution, especially sites polluting the ground water. They relate directly to three series of cleanup process records. D-Forms (Pollution/water well contamination) (4.118) are district office files regarding the complaint inspections and cleanups. For files on cleanups undertaken directly by the Railroad Commission, see the series Abandoned site candidate (4.085). Files concerning the cleanup of sites by the operators under RRC supervision are in the series Operator/responsible part cleanup files (4.088). All of these files have long-term administrative value for the agency in carrying on its role of environmental protection.

The reports and studies of water quality/water contamination in this series are the most important component of the complaint and investigation files. The studies are extensive. The agency has suggested creating a separate series for the reports and studies. If implemented, then the complaint files could stay at AC+5, while the reports and studies (part of the investigation/inspection process) could have a longer retention period - the agency says PM. At this point I recommend keeping the series as one, because the complaints that generated the studies in question should stay with the studies and reports. The complaints provide details of the contamination that led to the investigation.

Because of the high environmental concerns with both the pollution and the thoroughness of the cleanup, the compliance files have long-term administrative value. The files also have permanent value because they can be used to track the condition of wells and aquifers over a long period of time. This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. Although the RRC has stated it wants to change the retention to permanent, a PM retention at the agency is not warranted. A long retention at the agency is necessary, say 50 years after the cleanup is completed, then the records need to be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division. There are currently no files in the series eligible for transfer to the Archives.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
D-Forms (Pollution/water well contamination)

Agency: Railroad Commission
Oil and Gas Division, Compliance/Well plugging, field operations, district offices

Contact: Belinda Wolf

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: varies within each district, generally from 0.5 to 3 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Paper record is retained in the district offices with copies of some files in the agency headquarters in Austin. Retention period is AC+5, but the agency wants to change the retention to permanent. The district offices maintain the record copy of the investigations, and of the smaller cleanups they handle. The state office has copies of some complaints, investigations, and files of smaller cleanups maintained in the district offices. Overall dates covered are 1965-[ongoing]. Dates and holdings of records in the district offices vary as follows: San Antonio - dates not given, files comprise less than 4 cubic ft; Houston - 1965-[ongoing], 0.3 cubic ft.; Corpus Christi - 1992-[ongoing], 12 cubic ft.; Kilgore - 1999-[ongoing], 75 linear ft.; Abilene - water well complaints, no dates given (these are ongoing), pollution files, 1998-[ongoing], 30 cubic ft. for both sets; San Angelo - 1968-[ongoing], about 35 cubic ft.; Midland - 1995-[ongoing], 160 linear ft.; Wichita Falls - 1995-[ongoing], 16 cubic ft.; District 10 - 1979-[ongoing], 4 cubic ft. Dates are not given for copies of district files in the state office, these copies comprise 25 cubic feet.

Description:
These files contain inspection forms (D-forms), reports, correspondence, plats, photographs, analyses, lab reports, consultant reports, etc., concerning cleanups of oil and gas pollution. Dates covered are 1965-[ongoing]. Incidents requiring cleanup include ground water or surface pollution from oil or gas leaks or spills, salt water pollution of ground water, etc. The D-forms are reports on site cleanup. There are no comprehensive final reports by either the state or district offices on cleanups. Some of the inspection files will contain extensive water quality and contamination studies.

See the series Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination (4.115) for the complaint and investigation files in the district offices. See the series Operator/responsible party cleanup files - re: pending litigation (4.088) for state office files regarding the cleanup by operators. For files on cleanups undertaken directly by the Railroad Commission, see the series Abandoned site candidate (4.085). The series Abandoned site cleanup (4.086) contains bid procedures, invoices, and other records concerning contracting and paying for the cleanups done by the state.

Although the retention schedule states these inspections and reports are to be maintained for only five years after closure of the case, the RRC district offices have not disposed of any files. The agency wants to change the retention period to permanent because of the effect that pollution of the ground water or the surface by oil and gas operations has on the environment. These files are also extremely important in tracking the condition of wells and aquifers over a long period of time.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
The records are created and maintained during the cleanup of oil and gas polluted sites by the district staff of the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: varies by district, as follows: San Antonio - by county, operator; Houston - by county, operator; Corpus Christi - by complainant; Kilgore - by county, operator, lease; Abilene - by operator, lease; San Angelo - by county; Midland - by operator; Wichita Falls - by field technician; District 10 - by operator, lease. Copies filed in the state office are arranged by county, operator.

Use constraints: Many of these records are only in the district offices.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: D-Forms (Pollution/water well contamination)
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.118
Archival code: none
Retention: AC+5

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None, the agency has not disposed of any files.

Appraisal decision:
These inspection files and reports document cleanups of oil and gas pollution, especially sites polluting the ground water. They relate directly to two other series of records that discuss the cleanup process: for files on cleanups undertaken directly by the Railroad Commission, see the series Abandoned site candidate (4.085); files concerning the cleanup of sites by the operators under RRC supervision are in the series Operator/responsible part cleanup files (4.088). And, the inspection files and reports are related to the complaint and investigation files - Complaint files/pollution: water well contamination (4.115). All of these series have long-term administrative value for the agency in carrying on its role of environmental protection. The reports and studies in this series under discussion and the complaint files series are an important component of these files due to the extensive studies undertaken on the water quality/water contamination. The agency has suggested creating a separate series for the reports and studies done as part of the investigation/inspection process. At this point I recommend keeping the series as one, because the complaints that generated the studies in question should stay with the studies and reports. The complaints provide details of the contamination that led to the investigation. There is other data of value in these cleanup files - the D-forms report on what was done during the cleanup process. Also, there are no comprehensive final reports done by either the state or district offices on cleanups.

Because of the high environmental concerns with both the pollution and the thoroughness of the cleanup, these files have long-term administrative value documenting cleanups of pollutants. The files also have permanent value because they can be used to track the condition of wells and aquifers over a long period of time. This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. Although the RRC has stated it wants to change the retention to permanent, a PM retention at the agency is not warranted. A long retention at the agency is necessary, say 50 years after the cleanup is completed, then the records need to be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division. There are currently no files in the series eligible for transfer to the Archives.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Plats

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1940-ca. 1955 and comprise 29 cubic feet.

Description:
These are plats of oil and gas leases and survey maps showing oil, gas, and water well locations, oil/gas lease and field boundaries, land and lease owners, cities, towns, rivers, and creeks. Dates covered are ca. 1940-ca. 1955. The maps often contain notes about the wells. Some maps are accompanied by correspondence about the leases or have affidavits attached. Most of the maps were drawn by local surveyors and cover specific leases. Size of the leases vary - a lease may cover several counties or a small part of one county. Most of the maps are legal size, a few are larger. These plats and maps were not done by the RRC but sent to them by operators with various other records, such as applications for permits. The RRC retained these plats and maps as a source of well data and related information.

Well location data is also available in the series Maps: paper. However, the RRC has not researched all of these plats to extract data and it does not intend to do any further research in these files. The plats could contain some well data or related information not found in the series Maps: paper.

Purpose:
The maps and plats were submitted to the RRC by operators and maintained by the Commission because of information about oil and gas wells in the state.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Roughly topical by county, then by field, then by operator.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: Not on the schedule, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
We have related oil and gas maps in the James Holdeman Collection, a manuscript collection of oil and gas maps and plats from the early-mid 20th century, covering various parts of Texas.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None known - this is a collection of plats gathered by the RRC not created by them.

Appraisal decision:
This is a unique source providing information about oil, gas, and water wells in the state. Some well data is available in the series Maps: paper, a series intended for eventual transfer to the Archives. But, since the RRC has not had the time nor manpower to research every plat in this series to determine if all the significant well data is available in the series Maps:paper, these plats need to be retained to provide full documentation of the well data. Also, there is value in the information found on the plats besides oil and gas data, such as ownership information. The Archives gets several requests a year for maps showing land owners and we have very few. These plats would help to fill that gap. This series has been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Orders

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: None, the orders described here were separated from similar records years ago.

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1935-1948 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
The records are orders issued by the Railroad Commission concerning pressure maintenance, gas storage, and vacuum hearings, dating 1935-1948. These orders are likely part of the series Notices and orders, that contains orders for all hearings involving the Oil and Gas Division.

A related series of old records described in the appraisal report contains hearing files for the vacuum applications, see the series Vacuum hearing files.

Purpose:
Original orders are issued by the Railroad Commission to govern the drilling, completion and operation of wells in the field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological by year, then docket number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These orders were removed from the series Notices and orders at sometime in the past. Reasons for removal are unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Notices and orders - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.006
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Notices and orders - microfilm
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.007
Archival code: none
Retention: 100

Archival holdings:
Original orders, 1928-1977, 49 linear ft.
Records present in this series include notices of hearings, original orders, and special emergency rules, dating 1928-1977. Original orders were issued by the Oil and Gas Division to govern the drilling of oil and gas wells and the operation of the fields.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: These orders cover only a few types of hearings and are present only for the years 1935-1948.

Appraisal decision:
Orders are a summary record of RRC decisions in oil and gas hearings. Some cases involve serious environmental issues and legal production issues and need to be retained. At some point in the past the orders in this series were separated from the main series, Notices and orders. The orders described in this series review are limited in scope, covering pressure maintenance, gas storage, and vacuum hearings between 1935 and 1948. While these orders are narrow in scope, they belong with the larger series of orders. (They may be duplicated in that series, but probably not.) We have appraised the series Notices and orders as archival. This series of orders is appraised archival as well. Since the Archives already has the original paper notices and orders dating 1928-1977, these orders should be transferred to the Archives. The RRC may wish to microfilm the orders first, as they likely have not been filmed. They can be transferred after filming is completed.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Hearing files re: exceptions to Statewide Rule 21

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: None, the records described here were separated from similar
records years ago.

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated ca. 1938 and comprise about 0.5 cubic feet.

Description:
These are files from RRC hearings concerning conservation and fire prevention re: crude oil petroleum and natural gas, dating ca. 1938. Materials present include applications, correspondence re: proposed special orders, notes, exhibits (maps, lists of operators, production data, etc.), notices, and correspondence from the Oil and Gas Division to applicants. Most, if not all, of the applications are requesting exceptions to Statewide Rule 21. These files are part of the series Hearing files, removed years ago for unknown reasons.

Statewide Rule 21 concerns fire prevention and swabbing (16 TAC, §3.21).

Purpose:
Hearing files contain some of the records (exhibits, notes, etc.) from hearings held by the agency to govern the drilling, completion and operation of wells in the field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By case number

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These files were removed from the series Hearing files sometime in the past, possibly because of the type of case; actual reason for removal is unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Hearing files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Most, if not all, of the files cover a specific type of hearing (re: statewide rule 21) and are only present ca. 1938.

At some point in the past the hearing files described in this series review were separated from the main series Hearing files. The hearing files described here primarily concern one type of case - exceptions to Statewide Rule 21. While the coverage of these hearing files is narrow in scope, the files document this particular type of case (conservation and fire prevention, Rule 21) that may not be covered in the Hearing files during this time period. We have appraised the series Hearing files as archival. This series, Hearing files - Statewide Rule 21 is appraised archival as well. Since these files have been long separated from the hearing files, if it wishes, the RRC can transfer them now to the Archives and Information Services Division. If the RRC would rather retain these Rule 21 hearing files with the larger series of hearing files they can be transferred to the Archives with the rest of the hearing files when those files cease having administrative value.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Hearing files - Yates and Diamond "M" Unit

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: None, the records described here were separated from similar records years ago.

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1936-1938 and 1954-1957, totaling one cubic foot.

Description:
These are exhibits and court documents used in a RRC hearing involving the Yates and Diamond "M" Unit, dating 1936-1938; and monthly reports from the Lion Diamond "M" Unit, dating 1954-1957. The Yates case concerns the prevention of waste in the Yates field in Pecos County and was filed in 1934. The RRC was considering whether or not existing rules, regulations, and orders adapted for the prevention of waste should be revoked, continued in full force, or amended for this case. A copy of the original filing was not located in these files. Documents present include exhibits, correspondence, memorandum, briefs, orders, testimony, well data, maps, minutes of a Yates Pool Engineers Committee meeting, tests on wells, and a report by the RRC's Oil and Gas Division to determine if the wells in the Yates Pool were being produced ratably. These files are part of the series Hearing files, removed years ago for unknown reasons.

The monthly reports dating 1954-1957 concern production in the Lion Diamond "M" Unit and contain production statistics, well tests, data re: water injection and gas injection systems, workover and remedial work, a well status map, etc.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
Hearing files contain some of the records (exhibits, notes, etc.) from hearings held by the agency to govern the drilling, completion and operation of wells in the field. The records in the Yates case document legal issues surrounding the prevention of waste in the Yates field in Pecos County.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of record

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These files were removed from the series Hearing files sometime in the past, possibly because of the type of case, actual reason for removal is unknown. Although both sets of records concern the Diamond "M" Unit, the relationship between the two sets of records is not clear.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Hearing files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Archival holdings:
There are no RRC hearing files at the Archives. The Archives does have several litigation case files in the records of the Attorney General concerning the Yates case and/or the Yates Field in the series Litigation files, 1880-1948 (bulk 1902-1940), 89 cubic ft.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Hearing files are present only for 1936-1938, monthly reports cover just the years 1954-1957.

Appraisal decision:
These are exhibits, notes, etc. from a hearing regarding a particular case. Hearing files shed light on the cases involved. The files are used administratively for other reasons by the RRC. According to the agency, engineers use the data submitted as exhibits by operators, such as reserve estimates, ideas for development, and calculated depletion rates, along with the production records (see series Oil and gas production reports (4.017)) and the well potential information (see series Oil and gas potential files (4.015)) to create a more accurate picture of reserves. The engineers will also use other hearing records, such as seismic data, plats and maps, and logs to help determine oil and gas reserves. These records have value both as evidence presented in a hearing and to RRC engineers in determining oil and gas reserves.

At some point in the past the files for this hearing were separated from the main series Hearing files. The hearing files in this series under discussion concern just the Yates and Diamond "M" case in 1936-1938, and include reports from the unit dating 1954-1957. There is still interest in the case. The Archives has litigation files involving the case from the Attorney General's Office and the litigation files have been used by researchers. The Yates and Diamond "M" files belong with the larger series of hearing files. We have appraised the series Hearing files as archival. This series, Hearing files - Yates and Diamond "M" Unit is appraised archival as well. Since these files have been long separated from the hearing files, if it wishes, the RRC can transfer them now to the Archives and Information Services Division. If the RRC would rather retain the Yates hearing files with the larger series of hearing files the files can be transferred to the Archives with the rest of the hearing files when those files cease having administrative value.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Miscellaneous hearing files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: None, the records described here were separated from similar records years ago.

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1935, 1938-1943, 1946-1948 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are hearing files, containing briefs, correspondence, notices, RRC orders, court orders, affidavits, notes, memoranda, exhibits, maps, and judgements. Dates covered are 1935, 1938-1943, 1946-1948. Correspondents include RRC staff, Commissioners, litigants, and attorneys. Types of cases filed include transfer of oil to different refineries, release of frozen stock, and illegal crude oil production. These files are part of the series Hearing files, removed years ago for unknown reasons.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
Hearing files contain some of the records (exhibits, notes, etc.) from hearings held by the agency to govern the drilling, completion and operation of wells in the field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by case

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These files were removed from the series Hearing files sometime in the past; actual reason for removal is unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Hearing files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records in this series are only present for 1935, 1938-1943, and 1946-1948.

Appraisal decision:
These are exhibits, notes, etc. from hearings that could shed some light on the cases involved. The files are used administratively for other reasons by the RRC. According to the agency, engineers use the data submitted as exhibits by operators, such as reserve estimates, ideas for development, and calculated depletion rates, along with the production records (see series Oil and gas production reports (4.017)) and the well potential information (see series Oil and gas potential files (4.015)) to create a more accurate picture of reserves. The engineers will also use other hearing records, such as seismic data, plats and maps, and logs to help determine oil and gas reserves. These hearing records have value as evidence presented in a hearing and to RRC engineers in determining oil and gas reserves.

At some point in the past the hearing files described in this series review were separated from the main series Hearing files. The hearing files described here cover several types of cases; why they were segregated from the larger series is unknown. We have appraised the series Hearing files as archival. This series, Miscellaneous hearing files, is appraised archival as well. Since these files have been long separated from the hearing files, if it wishes, the RRC can transfer them now to the Archives and Information Services Division. If the RRC would rather retain these particular hearing files with the larger series of hearing files they can be transferred to the Archives with the rest of the hearing files when those files cease having administrative value.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Hearings, Panhandle Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: None, the records described here were separated from similar records years ago.

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records date prior to 1940 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are files from RRC hearings involving the Panhandle Field, dating prior to 1940. Records present include exhibits and correspondence about the hearings. These files are part of the series Hearing files, removed years ago for unknown reasons.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
Hearing files contain some of the records (exhibits, notes, etc.) from hearings held by the agency to govern the drilling, completion and operation of wells in the field. These document hearings concerning only the Panhandle Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by case

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These files were removed from the series Hearing files sometime in the past; actual reason for removal is unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Hearing files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Files in this series cover only hearings re: the Panhandle Field and are present for years just prior to 1940; exact dates are not known.

Appraisal decision:
These are exhibits, notes, etc. from hearings that could shed some light on the cases involved. The files are used administratively for other reasons by the RRC. According to the agency, engineers use the data submitted as exhibits by operators, such as reserve estimates, ideas for development, and calculated depletion rates, along with the production records (see series Oil and gas production reports (4.017)) and the well potential information (see series Oil and gas potential files (4.015)) to create a more accurate picture of reserves. The engineers will also use other hearing records, such as seismic data, plats and maps, and logs to help determine oil and gas reserves. These records have value as evidence presented in a hearing and to RRC engineers in determining oil and gas reserves.

At some point in the past the hearing files described in this series review were separated from the main series Hearing files. The hearing files described here cover only cases involving the Panhandle Field, during a very early period in oil production, the 1930s. Why the files were segregated from the larger series is unknown. We have appraised the series Hearing files as archival. This series, Hearing files, Panhandle Field is appraised archival as well. Since these files have been long separated from the hearing files, if it wishes, the RRC can transfer them now to the Archives and Information Services Division. If the RRC would rather retain these particular hearing files with the larger series of hearing files, they can be transferred to the Archives with the rest of the hearing files when those files cease having administrative value.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
State Tender Board hearing

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replace by: none known

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1935 and comprise about 0.5 cubic feet.

Description:
These are hearing files from a State Tender Board hearing in 1935. Records present include testimony, exhibits, affidavits, statements of fact, organization reports, charter reports, federal reports, and correspondence.

Regulation of oil and gas operations by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 3.

Purpose:
Hearing files contain some of the records (exhibits, testimony, etc.) from hearings held by the State Tender Board to monitor the movement of oil in Texas.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The State Tender Board was part of the Oil and Gas Division's Pipe Line, Refining and Tender Section. This section was set up to control the movement of oil from the time it was produced until it was consumed in Texas, or until exported from Texas as crude oil or a refined product. The movements were checked by means of tender bids that were approved and numbered in district offices. The section made weekly reports of stocks of crude oil and petroleum products and monthly estimates of empty storage facilities for petroleum in Texas. The State Tender Board conducted hearings on a variety of matters, including requests to operate a pipeline, requests to operate a treating plant, name changes of companies, changing officers in a company, requests to clean storage tanks, and requests to approve tender offers between companies for movement of oil.

Arrangement: By type of record

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, series is not on the schedule.

Archival holdings:
State Tender Board, transcripts of testimony, 1939-1943, 1.25 linear ft.
Records present in this series consist of transcripts of testimony at hearings held by the State Tender Board to monitor the movement of oil in Texas. Dates covered are 1939-1943.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Files only document one hearing held in 1935.

Appraisal decision:
The State Tender Board was a part of a section of the Oil and Gas Division whose purpose was to monitor the movement of oil in Texas. While this is a fairly specific topic, it seems to be the Commission's only record of the State Tender Board. Transcripts of hearings of this board covering 1939-1943 were transferred to the Archives many years ago. State Tender Board hearings are not part of the series Hearing files. It is likely all the former hearing files of that Board were included in the previous transfer to the Archives. The Appraisal Committee feels we have sufficient coverage of the State Tender Board in records previously received. This series has been appraised as non-archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Statewide hearing summary

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown if it was replaced

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. The records are dated in 1937 and consist of about 0.25 cubic feet.

Description:
This is a typescript of a summary of a statewide hearing held before the Railroad Commission in 1937, in Austin, concerning oil production.

Purpose:
This summarizes a statewide hearing on oil production held in 1937.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: N/A - single item

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this series is not on the schedule. Since this is a typescript of a summary of statewide hearing rather than a transcript of a hearing, it would not be considered to be part of the series Transcripts.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: It is unknown if transcript summaries of other hearings exist or if this was the only occurrence.

Appraisal decision:
This is a summary of a statewide hearing held by the RRC in 1937 concerning oil production. Little is known about this hearing outside of the topic covered. Governing oil production in the 1930s was a major function of the RRC, especially since production limits were slowly being imposed in the big oil fields during this period. It is possible, even likely, that a transcript from this hearing is in the series Transcripts. But, we do not know, and we have appraised the series Transcripts as non-archival. This statewide hearing summary has evidentiary value as a record of the hearing, and some historical value because of the topic covered. It has been appraised to be archival. It can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Survey of salt water disposal

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none known

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1957 and consist of 16 cubic feet.

Description:
These are questionnaire responses from oil and gas operators re: salt water production and disposal on oil and gas leases, dating 1957. The questionnaires contain the RRC district number, county, field, company reports, lease name and number, total number of barrels of salt water produced by the lease, method of disposal of salt water, whether salt water was allowed to spill into water courses, and if so, which watershed received the salt water. A report summarizing this data was not located within these files or library catalogues. It is unknown if a report was produced.

The survey was undertaken by the Railroad Commission at the request of the Attorney General to determine how much salt water, through oil and gas production, was being discharged into the fresh waters of the state. Participation by all oil and gas operators in the state was mandatory.

Purpose:
To determine the extent of fresh water polluted by the release of salt water produced during oil and gas operations into fresh water watersheds.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by county.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known.

Publications based on records: None known.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this series is not on the schedule.

Archival holdings:
A possibly related series with testimony re: salt water disposal in 1947 is:
Miscellaneous, 1932-1933, 1940, 1947, 5 linear inches
These records consist of oil production statistics compiled by the Oil Accounting and Statistical Department in 1932-1933 for the East Texas Field and, in April 1940, for the entire state. Also present is testimony from a 1947 hearing on salt water disposal, and a 1947 speech by the chairman of the Interstate Oil Compact Commission on its history and functions.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None, the survey was conducted in 1957.

Appraisal decision:
This was a survey undertaken for environmental reasons by the RRC at the request of the Attorney General's Office. It was to determine the extent of fresh water pollution by salt water produced through oil and gas operations. Such water was being discharged into the fresh waters of the state in some cases. Participation in the survey was mandatory for all oil and gas operators in the state. The survey provides valuable environmental data regarding where salt water was being released. The data in this series has long-term environmental and historical value. A summary report containing the pertinent facts of the survey was not found. In the absence of a report, the questionnaires have been appraised to be archival. The records can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence and reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated ca. 1932-ca. 1940 and comprise about 0.25 cubic feet.

Description:
This series contains correspondence and reports of the Oil and Gas Division, dating ca. 1932-ca. 1940. Correspondents are RRC staff, lessees, oil or gas producers, and oil companies. Topics include physical tests on wells and equipment, production allowables, pressure, etc. Also present are well production logs, reports on water wells, reports on oil fields, and miscellaneous statistics. Current correspondence or reports of this nature are filed in the appropriate application or project files instead of being centrally filed.

Purpose:
These records document communication between the RRC's Oil and Gas Division and oil and gas producers, companies, and lessees.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: No

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
The series listed below is likely part of this series of correspondence of the Oil and Gas Division.
Correspondence and reports, 1919-1935, 61.25 linear ft.
This series contains incoming and outgoing correspondence of the Oil and Gas Division, dating 1919-1935. The incoming letters are from the public and the division's field agents. It includes reports on inspection activities, enforcement of oil and conservation laws, and inquiries. The outgoing letters respond to public inquiries and give instructions to field agents.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records are not present at the agency prior to ca. 1932 or after ca. 1940.

Appraisal decision:
The old correspondence and the reports of the Oil and Gas Division document its interaction with the oil and gas industry during early years of oil and gas production. The records also supplement correspondence and reports held at the Archives. This series has been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence, applications

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1950-1951 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are memoranda and reports from RRC engineers to the Commissioners re: applications, dating 1950-1951. The memos give the application request, hearing date, appearance, description of what the applicant is seeking, and a report and recommendation by the engineer or the legal examiner on whether the RRC should approve the application. The files do not include a hearing or order number, and they do not indicate what the commissioners decided. The specific types of applications are unknown.

Purpose:
To recommend whether or not the Commissioners should approve the applications.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1950 or after 1951.

Appraisal decision:
These files document recommendations of RRC engineers as to whether the Commissioners should approve certain applications. It is not known specifically what types of applications are involved. However, the files also give a hearing date, indicating a hearing was held. The files do not provide the results of the hearing or state whether the application was approved. The series Hearing files should have this information, and any orders issued as a result of these particular hearings will also be covered in the series Notices and orders. Both the orders and hearings series have been appraised to be archival, which provides sufficient coverage of the data in these application requests.

This series, Correspondence, applications, is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence re: gas production

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated in the 1940s and comprise about 0.24 cubic feet.

Description:
These are outgoing letters of the Railroad Commission to operators concerning casinghead gas production, dating in the 1940s. The letters typically request missing or additional information from gas operators or may involve leases. Current correspondence of this nature is filed in the appropriate application or permit files relating to casinghead gas production.

Purpose:
These letters request missing/additional information from operators to complete the RRC's data on casinghead gas production.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records are only present for the 1940s.

Appraisal decision:
This series consists of outgoing letters from the RRC to gas operators generally requesting missing or additional data re: casinghead gas production. Without any response from the operators, there is no administrative or other relevant value left in these records. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence re: East Texas Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1943-1960 and comprise 0.5 cubic feet.

Description:
This is incoming correspondence to the Railroad Commission concerning the East Texas Field, dating 1943-1960. Correspondents include land owners, operators, oil companies, and attorneys. Topics include hearings, wells, leases, equipment issues, requests granted by the RRC as rule exceptions, requests to the RRC for exceptions, well status, etc.

Purpose:
These files document communication of the oil industry and interested parties with the Railroad Commission concerning the East Texas Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Folders are arranged chronologically by year, then in reverse chronological order within the folders.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
We do have some earlier correspondence of the Oil and Gas Division that is marginally related to the correspondence in this series.
Correspondence and reports, 1919-1935, 61.25 linear ft.
This series contains incoming and outgoing correspondence of the Oil and Gas Division, dating 1919-1935. The incoming letters are from the public and the division's field agents. It includes reports on inspection activities, enforcement of oil and conservation laws, and inquiries. The outgoing letters respond to public inquiries and give instructions to field agents.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present before 1943 or after 1960.

Appraisal decision:
This series contains incoming correspondence to the Railroad Commission regarding the East Texas Field. Correspondence such as this today would be filed with the appropriate application or permit files. This series supplements early correspondence of the Oil and Gas Division already held in the Archives. It covers a variety of topics, though just one field, albeit a major one. Some of this data should be available in other RRC series. This series does have some evidential value as it records communications of the oil production industry with the RRC re: a major oil field. This series has been appraised to be archival. The files can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Reports of wells producing by artificial methods in the East Texas Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: possibly part of the series Oil and gas production reports

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1944-1947 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are reports of wells producing by artificial methods. The reports show barrels of oil and percentages of water from all wells producing water in the East Texas Field. Reports were produced semi-annually and are dated 1944-1947, with the report for January 1946 missing. Information in the report includes the operator, lease name, well number, survey name, barrels produced, percentages of water, and production method (pump, flow, or other). Similar reports dating 1934, 1937-1943 and 1950-1956 are described in another series of old records, Miscellaneous reports, East Texas Field. Production data for all wells, dating from the early 1930s-[ongoing] are found in the series Oil and gas production reports.

Purpose:
The reports provide production data for wells producing oil by artificial methods in the East Texas Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Destruction requests on file in the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission were checked for the Railroad Commission none were found for this series. There were several requests submitted to destroyed paper records after microfilming for likely related series:
Oil ledgers/oil production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978, 1983-1992.

Gas ledgers/gas production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1953-1966, 1983-1992.

Oil and gas production ledgers, district 9 - a destruction request dated June 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978.

Publications based on records:
Some production statistics are in the Oil and Gas Division Annual Report.

Series data from agency schedule: This series is defunct, but reports giving production data are present in the series:
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

A related series is:
Miscellaneous, 1932-1933, 1940, 1947, 5 linear inches
These records consist of oil production statistics compiled by the Oil Accounting and Statistical Department in 1932-1933 for the East Texas Field and, in April 1940, for the entire state. Also present is testimony from a 1947 hearing on salt water disposal, and a 1947 speech by the chairman of the Interstate Oil Compact Commission on its history and functions.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996.

Gaps: No reports are present in this series prior to 1944 or after 1947, and January 1946 is missing.

Appraisal decision:
These reports provide production data of wells producing by artificial methods in the East Texas Field. As with another series, these records concern just the East Texas Field. Production data of all oil and gas wells is present in the series Oil and gas production reports. That is sufficient coverage of well production. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Miscellaneous reports, East Texas Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: possibly part of the series Oil and gas production reports

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1934, 1937-1943, 1950-1956 and comprise six cubic feet.

Description:
These are various reports on the East Texas Field, primarily concerning production, dating 1934, 1937-1943, 1950-1956. There are monthly and/or quarterly reports of wells "showing water," dated 1934, giving the operator, lease, well number, survey, tubing, percent contaminated; and quarterly and/or semi-annual reports - Report of Wells Producing by Artificial Methods Showing Barrels and Percentage of Water from all Wells making Water, dated 1937-1943 and 1950-1956, giving operator, lease name, well number, survey name, barrels produced, percentages of water, and production method (pump, flow, or other). Reports in the last group, dating 1944-1947, are described in another series of old records, Reports of wells producing by artificial methods in the East Texas Field. Production data for all wells, dating from the early 1930s-[ongoing] are found in the series Oil and gas production reports.

Purpose:
Some reports provide production data for wells producing oil by artificial methods in the East Texas Field. Others report on wells "showing water" in the East Texas Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of report.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Gas ledgers/gas production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1953-1966, 1983-1992.

Oil and gas production ledgers, district 9 - a destruction request dated June 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978.

Publications based on records:
Some production statistics are in the Oil and Gas Division Annual Report.

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996.

Gaps: No reports are present in this series prior to 1934, for 1944-1949, or after 1956.

Appraisal decision:
This series consists of two sets of reports from the East Texas Field, primarily concerning production. As with another series, these records concern just the East Texas Field. Production data of all oil and gas wells is present in the series Oil and gas production reports. That is sufficient coverage of well production. The other set of reports (covers just 1934) primarily concerns the percentage of water in wells. This data is reported in other types of production reports, covered in another series. This series, Miscellaneous reports, East Texas Field, is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Oil and casinghead gas production reports, Panhandle Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1957-1958 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are producers' reports of oil and casinghead gas production in the Panhandle Field, dating 1957-1958. Each report contains the operator's name, county, month, producer's name and address, lease name and number, number of wells producing, number of barrels produced for oil and for gas, amount of gas produced, and the gather's name. Production data for all wells, dating from the early 1930s-[ongoing] are found in the series Oil and gas production reports.

Purpose:
To report on oil and casinghead gas production as required by Special Order #10-36,290, dated September 16, 1957.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological by month

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Oil ledgers/oil production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978, 1983-1992.

Gas ledgers/gas production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1953-1966, 1983-1992.

Oil and gas production ledgers, district 9 - a destruction request dated June 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978.

Publications based on records:
Some production statistics are in the Oil and Gas Division Annual Report.

Series data from agency schedule: This series is defunct, reports giving production data are present in the series:
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996.

Gaps: Reports are only present for 1957-1958.

Appraisal decision:
According to data in the reports, these particular production reports were submitted in compliance with a special order dated September 16, 1957. The order required producers to submit oil and casinghead gas production data. These records concern just the Panhandle Field and cover only a two-year time period. Production data of all oil and gas wells is present in the series Oil and gas production reports. Also, oil and casinghead gas production is reported in the Oil and Gas Division Annual Report. That is sufficient coverage of oil and gas production. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Panhandle reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1930-1939 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These reports concern gas to oil ratio potential and rock pressure in the Panhandle Field. Dates covered are 1930-1939.

Purpose:
These report on gas to oil ratio potential in the Panhandle Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None known

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1930 or after 1939.

Appraisal decision:
These reports concern gas to oil ratio potential and rock pressure in the Panhandle Field covering early years of production in this field. This data on gas/oil potential could have long-term value. This data may be present in an existing series of records in the Railroad Commission. The series Oil and gas potential files does provide data about pressures and reserves. Not all of the records in the oil and gas potential files date back to the 1930s, so it is unknown if gas/oil ratio and rock pressure data is recorded. Without further input from the RRC staff, we can only appraise the reports in this series on their own merit. There is historical value in having gas/oil ratio potential during the early production years, and the files only comprise two cubic feet. This series has been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the agency's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Oil and gas files, Rodessa Field

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: parts of this series can be found in later series, ordered by type of record instead of by the field

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1936-1944 and comprise four cubic feet.

Description:
These are reports, hearing files, orders, and correspondence concerning oil and gas ratios in the Rodessa Field, dating 1936-1944. The Rodessa Field covers parts of Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas. On December 31, 1936, the Railroad Commission issued an order pertaining to oil and gas ratios in the Dees-Young Horizon of the Rodessa Field. There are monthly special orders, dating 1938-1944, increasing the allowable production for wells in response to operator requested increases. There is also a hearing file; correspondence with attorneys, the RRC, and oil and gas officials in Arkansas and Louisiana; a report re: field proration schedules; and a report re: gas withdrawal.

Purpose:
These document legal issues and concerns over oil and gas production ratios in the Rodessa Field.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of record.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known

Publications based on records: No

Series data from agency schedule: Not on the schedule, this is a defunct series. Parts of these records are today filed in several series:
Title: Notices and orders - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.006
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Hearing files - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Reports for market demand
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.032
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1936 or after 1944.

Appraisal decision:
Although these oil and gas files cover a short period of time and concern just one field, they are valuable because of the issues arising early in the oil and gas era over production within a field covering three states. This data may be available elsewhere in the RRC, particularly in the series Notices and orders (4.006), Hearing files (4.011), and Reports for market demand (4.032). This series of records was possibly created for legal reasons. There is a uniqueness here because of the early time period of the records and the location of the field. The records are an example of oil and gas issues within a field handled by the RRC and other states. Because of this uniqueness this series has been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Proration violation files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1932-1933, ca. 1948 and comprise four cubic feet.

Description:
The files contain correspondence concerning proration violations, dating 1932-1933, and some correspondence requesting proration exceptions, dating ca. 1948. The majority of the records concern violations and consist of correspondence and a copy of the violation. Correspondents include the company issued the violation, the Railroad Commission, or the Attorney General (AG). In most cases there is a letter to the Attorney General from the RRC requesting the AG to file a suit, with a copy of the violation attached.

Proration violations concern operators producing more oil or gas than allowed by the Railroad Commission.

Purpose:
These document proration violation cases.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by defendant.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
There are several series of Attorney General litigation files at the Archives. Suits filed by the AG in these cases are likely part of the litigation files.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1932 or after 1933 for violations, and requests for exceptions only cover ca. 1948.

Appraisal decision:
Proration violations concern operators producing more oil and gas than allowed by the Railroad Commission. The files in this series cover a very narrow time frame and only provide information re: filing a suit. The files do not indicate if the suit was actually filed or the outcome. If a hearing was held by the RRC, it should be covered in the series Hearing files and Notices and orders. Litigation filed by the Attorney General would be housed in old series of litigation files at the Archives. Regardless of coverage elsewhere, proration violations do not require long term retention. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Master record of supplemental allowables

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? likely
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? unknown
Annual accumulation: unknown

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1949 and comprise about 0.66 cubic feet.

Description:
These are tables of supplemental allowables, dating 1949. They give the name of the district supervisor, field number, month/year, county, field name, date issued, supplement number, company issued to, well number, name of lease, fixed allowable at barrels per day, effective date, etc.

Purpose:
These tables serve as a master record of supplemental allowables. This data may have been issued as an exhibit in a hearing, as other materials in this box concerned hearings. (The other materials are pipeline tariff reports dating 14 years later.)

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: N/A

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This data may have been issued as an exhibit in a hearing, as other materials in this box concerned hearings, but are dated 14 years later and do not appear related to the supplemental allowables. They are pipeline tariff reports, described in a separate series.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: Not on the schedule, this is a defunct series. This series could be part of the series below, which has monthly allowables established by the RRC - logically it should include supplemental allowables.
Title: Reports for market demand
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.032
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Schedules are only present for 1949.

Appraisal decision:
Production allowables, which should include supplemental allowables, are covered in the series Reports for market demand. Even if the supplemental schedules were not included, this series has little, if any value, since it covers such a narrow time frame - one year. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Salt water production worksheets and statistical reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1942-1943, 1949-1961, 1970s, and comprise 11 cubic feet

Description:
These are salt water production worksheets and statistical reports. Dates covered vary with the type of report or worksheet, covering 1942-1943, 1949-1961, and the 1970s. The 1970s worksheets are computer printouts listing the field name, number of wells, and exempt allowables. Earlier worksheets are present for the East Texas Field, covering 1949-1961. Statistical reports include bottom hole pressure reports, 1956-1959 (date, operator, lease, well number, pressure); statistical reports, 1951-1959 (operator, lease, survey, well number); salt water injection summary reports, 1951-1961 (operator, lease, well number, number of wells, injection data, number of barrels of water per month); transferred salt allowable supplement monthly reports, 1949-1959 (company, lease, survey, well number, old and new allowables); earned salt water allowable monthly reports, 1942-1943 (company, lease, survey, well number, old and new allowables); and monthly reports of salt water injection, 1956-1958.

Purpose:
The worksheets report salt water production. Most statistical reports record salt water allowables and/or salt water injection, others report on bottom hole pressure.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of record, then chronological.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. Some of production data is likely reported in the production reports; allowable data can be found in the reports for market demand.
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Title: Reports for market demand
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.032
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Varies according to the report. Salt water production worksheets are only present for the 1970s. Bottom hole pressure reports only cover 1956-1959. Salt water injection summary reports cover only 1951-1961. Transferred salt allowable supplement monthly reports are only present for 1949-1959. Earned salt water allowable monthly reports cover only 1942-1943. Monthly reports of salt water injection are only present for 1956-1958. Statistics reports (misc.) only cover the years 1951-1959.

Appraisal decision:
These worksheets and reports are very fragmented, reporting on various salt water injection data or allowables, or bottom hole pressure for narrow time frames. Production allowables should be in the series Reports for market demand; production data can likely be found in the Oil and gas production reports. Additionally, the RRC keeps applications and permits for salt water injection permanently, see H-1: Application to inject fluid into a reservoir productive of oil or gas.

The data in the various reports or worksheets described in this series is sufficiently covered in the above described series. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Injection reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: could be part of more than one series

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1957-1968 and comprise eight cubic feet.

Description:
These are various monthly reports concerning the injection of water or gas into wells as part of the oil production process. Dates covered are 1957-1968, but not all types of injection reports are present for all years. There are injection credit reports, reports of cycling operations, gas injection reports, reports of voidage replacement operations, reports of pressure maintenance operations, and reports re: adjustments of per well allowables. All of the reports have data on water and/or gas injected into the wells. Other information generally present includes the operator, lease name and number, date, oil and gas production, injection credit, amount of water or gas injected, and injection allowable.

Purpose:
These record water or gas injected into wells as part of the oil production process.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of report.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
There are several types of reports concerning the injection of water or gas into wells. They were scattered among eight boxes, with each box containing at least two types of the reports described, and most, if not all of the reports were found in at least two different boxes. Thus these records are described together in this series review.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
Some data, such as reports on cycling operations and reports on pressure maintenance operations are published in the annual report of the Oil and Gas Division - Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-[ongoing]

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. Injection and related data is present in several series on the RRC schedule. Those listed below are the most likely to contain the data covered in the injection reports described in this series review.
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Title: Plants/refinery reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.035
Archival code: none
Retention 100 years

Title: Reports for market demand
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.032
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Title: Monthly Summary of Texas Natural Gas
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.095
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996

Gaps: Varies with the type of reports, information on the dates is not available for each type of report. Overall gaps are pre-1957 and post-1968.

Appraisal decision:
There are several sets of reports present, each covering only a few years. Injection data and other data from the reports listed in the description are available elsewhere in the Railroad Commission, including published sources. There are other series that contain most, if not all of this data in one form or another. See the series Oil and gas production reports (4.017), Reports for market demand (4.032), and Monthly Summary of Texas Natural Gas (4.095). These series have a retention period of 100 years and have all been appraised to be archival, so the data will be retained permanently. Some data is likely found elsewhere, though all the relevant sources are unknown to the Archives staff. Additionally, the RRC keeps applications and permits for salt water injection permanently, see H-1: Application to inject fluid into a reservoir productive of oil or gas.

The injection data described in this series is sufficiently covered in the series listed above. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Miscellaneous oil and gas reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? yes
Replaced by: Similar reports can be found in the series Oil and gas production reports and Oil and gas status reports

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1937-1946, 1948-1961, comprising six cubic feet.

Description:
This series consists of several sets of reports re: oil and gas production, dating 1937-1946, 1948-1961. The most voluminous set is the monthly production reports of salt water injection wells and associated gas well schedules for the East Texas Field dating 1940-1946, 1948-1961. The reports give the operator, well number, gas allowed, barrels equivalent, and transfers - gas allowables, listing the oil companies involved. Other reports are water well injection reports accompanied by plats and correspondence, dating 1940; quarterly well status reports for several fields, 1937 and 1939; and monthly well operation reports (operator, well allowable permitted, well number, allowable, total oil/gas production, etc.). Exact dates of the well operation reports are unknown, but the reports fall within the 1937-1946 and 1948-1961 time frame. There is also a single report, dating 1939, that is a report of a survey governing sub-marginal dead wells and wells temporarily off production in the East Texas Field.

Purpose:
The production reports record monthly production of salt water injection wells. Other reports record water well injections, well status, well operation, and wells off production.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By type of report

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known

Oil ledgers/oil production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978, 1983-1992.

Gas ledgers/gas production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1953-1966, 1983-1992.

Oil and gas production ledgers, district 9 - a destruction request dated June 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978.

Publications based on records:
Some production data is in the annual report of the Oil and Gas Division, Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-[ongoing].

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. Production data and well status is present in other series on the RRC schedule. Those listed below are the most likely to contain the data described in this series review.
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Title: Oil and gas status reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.018
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996

Gaps: Varies with the type of report. Monthly production reports of salt water injection wells are only present for 1940-1946, 1948-1961 and only cover the East Texas Field. Water well injection reports cover only 1940. Quarterly well status reports are present only for 1937 and 1939, the report of wells off production covers only the East Texas Field in 1939. Exact dates of the monthly well operation reports are not present, but fall within the range of other reports, 1937-1946 and 1948-1961.

Appraisal decision:
There is a variety of data in the miscellaneous reports described in this series. Most, but not all, of the data is related to the East Texas Field. There are two series on the RRC schedule that appear to contain most of this data - Oil and gas production reports and Oil and gas status reports. Both currently have 100 year retention periods, the production reports have been appraised as archival so they will be permanent. Additionally, some production data is published in the annual report of the Oil and Gas Division. The only item seemingly not covered in another series is the survey of wells not in production in the East Texas Field in 1939. I see no need to keep such a narrowly focused item. The other data is contained in other series or publications at the RRC. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Monthly operator reports, gas wells

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes, now part of the series Oil and gas production reports

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1924-1925 and consist of two cubic feet.

Description:
These are monthly reports on gas wells submitted by operators, dating 1924-1925. The reports give the operator, name of the lease, well number, survey, county, test data, tubing, number of days the well was used, volume or potential capacity of the well, and amount of gas taken.

Purpose:
These provide a record of production of gas wells.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by company.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These reports were removed from the series Oil and gas production reports at some point in the past for reasons unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Oil ledgers/oil production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978, 1983-1992.

Gas ledgers/gas production ledgers - several destruction requests were submitted between June 1986 and April 1995 to destroy paper records dating 1953-1966, 1983-1992.

Oil and gas production ledgers, district 9 - a destruction request dated June 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1936-1978.

Publications based on records:
None, production reports were not produced during this time frame.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. It is know part of the following series:
Title: Oil and gas production reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: These only cover gas wells, reports are present only for 1924-1925.

Appraisal decision:
These are monthly production reports of gas wells for 1924-1925. These reports have historical value in documenting production of gas wells during the early years of the oil and gas industry. Production reports are part of the series Oil and gas production reports, a series with a 100 year retention period that has also been appraised as archival. According to the RRC, these particular reports have been microfilmed as part of that series. The agency has the monthly operator gas reports for 1924-[ongoing] on microfilm. We do not know when the reports were filmed. If it was done prior to 1982, ANSI standards were not followed and the film quality is suspect. The agency needs to check the date of filming. If filmed in 1982 or later, this series is determined to not be archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives since quality microfilm exists. If filmed prior to 1982, the agency should either refilm the records or transfer them to the Archives.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Light and fuel commingling reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1940-1943 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
This is a monthly report concerning residue for light and fuel at commingling gas plants, dating ca. 1940-1943. Each report gives the operator, reservoir, county, field, plant, survey, and the daily average intake and residue.

Purpose:
To provide the daily average intake and residue for light and fuel at commingling gas plants.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by company.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to ca. 1940 or after 1943.

Appraisal decision:
These reports give the residue for light and fuel at commingling gas plants. I was unable to find out anything more about this activity, either from the agency or by checking oil and gas journals the Archives holds from that period. The series only covers about a three year time frame, leading me to believe the other years of data (if any existed) for this information were disposed of long ago. Since the RRC has set long retention periods for so many of their records, one would think if this had long-term administrative or legal value, it would be on the RRC schedule. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Bottom hole pressure reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1947, 1950-1952 and comprise about two cubic feet.

Description:
These are dual completion bottom hole pressure (bhp) reports, semi-annual bottom hole pressure reports, correspondence, affidavits, and sketches, dating 1947, 1950-1952. Each dual completion report, dating 1947, gives the company name, well number, production zone, perforations, elevation date, casing/tubing size, depth of packer and choke, bottom hole temperature, flow rate, pressure readings, and calculated bhp rate. The reports are accompanied by correspondence with the Railroad Commission, sketches of the dual completion installation in the well (depth of the well, zones, size of tubing/casing), and packer setting affidavits. The affidavits acknowledge the supervision of the setting of a packer. The purpose of a packer was to effect a seal to prevent commingling in the bore of the well of fluids produced above and below the stratum of the packer. The semi-annual reports, dating 1950-1952, give the same basic information as the dual completion reports and also provide the names of the pipeline connections.

Bottom hole pressure, the pressure at the bottom of the well, is a measure of the strength of the energy in the reservoir necessary for oil and gas to be produced.

Purpose:
The reports provide bottom hole pressure readings. The sketches visually record dual completion installations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Dual completion reports are filed topical by company, then in reverse chronological order. Semi-annual reports are filed alphabetically by field, then production zone, then in reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Bottom hole pressure reports (W-7) - a destruction request was submitted in October 1986 to destroy paper records dating 1978-1985.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series. Pressure readings are present in several series, the most likely to include at least some of this data is this series.
Title: Oil and gas status reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.018
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Dual completion reports are only present for 1947. Semi-annual reports only cover 1950-1952.

Appraisal decision:
This series covers very specific data ( bottom hole pressure) for a short time period, 1947, 1950-1952. Some current series on the RRC schedule contain pressure readings, likely including at least some of this data, but specific coverage is only speculative. However, bottom hole pressure readings covering only this short time period have little if any historic value. Well status and production - related data, is covered in other RRC series - Oil and gas status reports and Oil and gas production reports. These series have 100 year retention periods, and all but the status reports have been appraised to be archival. That is sufficient coverage of this type of pressure data. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Stock and refinery reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes, data is now part of the series Plants/refinery reports
Annual accumulation: none

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1943-1948 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
There are two sets of reports by the Railroad Commission in this series. Stock reports show oil and gas stock on hand, refinery reports summarize refinery operations. Dates covered are 1943-1948. The stock reports show oil and gas stock for the month submitted and for the same month of the previous year. Categories reported were refineries, pipeline tank farms and terminals, oil in lines, gasoline recycling and repressuring plants, and totals for each. Items reported in most categories were crude, cracking stock, gasoline, kerosene dist.[?] - gas o.[?], fuel oil, natural gasoline, miscellaneous products, and totals. The refinery reports have the same items, but only show figures for the month reporting. Categories in the refinery reports are amount at beginning of month, receipts, runs to stills and/or blended, products manufactured, percent recovery, losses and fuel used, deliveries, and storage at end of the month.

Some data from the monthly refinery reports was summarized and published in the annual report of the Oil and Gas Division. This annual report is sent to the Publications Depository. Monthly refinery reports and other reports containing data re: stock, storage, and cycling operations are in the series Plants/refinery reports.

Purpose:
Stock reports provide the oil and gas stock in storage at refineries and elsewhere. Refinery reports document refinery operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological by month, then by type of report.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Destruction requests on file in the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission were checked for the Railroad Commission none were found for this series. There were several requests submitted to destroyed paper records after microfilming for likely related series, though the records destroyed are much later than ones described in this series.

Monthly transportation and storage report (T-1) - several destruction requests were submitted between March 1686 and March 1698 to destroy paper records dating 1982-1997.

Monthly report and operations statement for refineries (R-1) - several destruction requests were approved between March 1686 and April 1997 to destroy paper records dating 1982-1995.

Gas storage reports - a destruction request dated March 1686 to destroy paper records dating 1982-1983.

Publications based on records:
Data from refinery operations is summed up annually and published in Oil and Gas Division Annual Report. Stock on hand in various systems was also published in the annual report.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. The series Plants/refinery reports has several reports that contain data found in the records described in this series review, including gas storage sheets, monthly refinery operation statements, and the monthly transportation and storage reports.
Title: Plants/refinery reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.035
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996

Gaps: No records are present in this series prior to 1943 or after 1948.

Appraisal decision:
These are monthly statements of stock on hand and refinery operations. Refinery operations and stock on hand are summarized in the annual report of the Oil and Gas Division. Although the refinery files have long-term administrative value to the agency by reporting on processing/treatment operations in refineries, this information is not archival. The data in the stock reports - stock on hand each month - does not have long-term administrative value or archival value. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. The RRC needs to microfilm the refinery reports as they are a precursor to the current form used to report refinery operations, form R-1. The microfilm files in the series Plants/refinery reports begin in 1947. It may wish to film the stock reports as they have a supplemental value to the refinery reports. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records instead of filming them, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the record can be considered part of the series Plants/refinery operations.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Reports, various oil and gas topics

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1929-1941 and comprise about 1.5 cubic feet.

Description:
These are published reports from the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, dating ca. 1929-1941, covering various oil and gas topics. Titles present include Report of Investigations, Analyses of Crude Oils from Some Fields of Oklahoma and Properties of Louisiana Crude Oils. Most of the reports do not cover Texas. This series of reports are in the federal depository program. Copies were located in the Documents Collection of the Library and Archives Commission.

Purpose:
These reports record U.S. Department of the Interior studies or activities re: oil and gas topics.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines.

Publications based on records:
These reports are published.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
The Documents Collection holds both of the reports listed in the description. It appears to hold a complete, or nearly so, set of reports in this series. Titles located were:
Report of Investigations, Analyses of Crude Oils from Some Fields of Oklahoma and Properties of Louisiana Crude Oils.

Gaps: Reports in this series are only present ca. 1929-1941. The Documents Collection holds a more complete set.

Appraisal decision:
These are published reports of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines. Most of the reports held by the RRC do not concern Texas. The Documents Collection holds the two titles checked and appears to have a complete, or nearly so, set of the reports. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy these reports it can do so as they are considered reference materials. A "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) does not need to be submitted.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Tank bottom cleaning files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1942-ca. 1955 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are records concerning permits issued for tank cleaning or operation of storage tanks, dating ca. 1942-ca. 1955. Files contain copies of temporary permits, notices of hearings, and memos re: hearings. Some folders have the date the Commission acted on the permit request. Hearings held concerning these issues should be covered in the series Hearing files, orders issued should be in the series Notices and orders.

Purpose:
These record temporary permits issued for tank cleaning or operation of storage tanks.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Destruction requests on file in the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission were checked for the Railroad Commission none were found for this series. There were several requests submitted to destroyed paper records after microfilming for likely related series, though the records destroyed are much later than ones described in this series.

Tank bottom and tank cleaning transportation authority (P-9) - several destruction requests were submitted between December 1986 and September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1984-1990.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series. Hearings conducted in the tank cleaning/tank operation cases and orders approving permits should be covered in the series listed.
Title: Notices and orders - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.006
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Notices and orders - microfilm
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.007
Archival code: none
Retention: 100

Title: Hearing files - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Hearing files - microfilm
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.012
Archival code: none
Retention: 100

Archival holdings:
Any orders issued in these hearings should be found in the paper copies of the older notices and orders, previously transferred to the Archives as:

Original orders, 1928-1977, 49 linear ft. [paper records]
Records present in this series include notices of hearings, original orders, and special emergency rules, dating 1928-1977. Original orders were issued by the Oil and Gas Division to govern the drilling of oil and gas wells and the operation of the fields.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records in this series only cover ca. 1942-ca. 1955.

Appraisal decision:
These files concern hearings held re: permit requests for tank cleaning or operation of storage tanks. The files largely consist of memos about the hearings, along with temporary permits and hearing notices. Hearings held should be recorded in the series Hearing files, notices and orders are in the series Notices and orders. No further documentation of the tank cleaning files is needed. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Vacuum hearing files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1932-1948 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are hearings held on applications to install vacuums on leases, dating 1932-1948. The files contain the application, correspondence with the Railroad Commission, and either a letter or an order from the RRC stating whether or not the application was approved. A vacuum is used to secure a greater volume of gas to be used for recycling into the pay formation under pressure. Another series of old records reviewed in this appraisal report, Orders, has orders from vacuum hearings dating 1935-1948.

Purpose:
These record Railroad Commission decisions on vacuum applications.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Arranged by district number, then alphabetical by operator.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series. Orders issued by the RRC on the status of the application may be covered in the notices and orders series. Whether or not this type of application decision was part of that series is unknown.
Title: Notices and orders - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.006
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Notices and orders - microfilm
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.007
Archival code: none
Retention: 100

Archival holdings:
The Archives does hold the original paper orders of the Railroad Commission dating 1928-1977. A sampling was done of orders in the 1930s looking for orders re: vacuum hearings, none were located.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records in this series only cover 1932-1948.

Appraisal decision:
These files document RRC decisions re: requests to install vacuums on leases. The files contain either the order issued by the RRC or a letter in lieu of an order stating whether or not the RRC approved the request. Orders by the RRC are in the series Notices and orders. There is also a series of orders in the old records reviewed in the report that has orders re: vacuum hearings for 1935-1948, titled Orders. Those particular vacuum orders, 1935-1948, were likely removed from the current series Notices and orders. The orders in both series of orders (Orders, Notices and orders) have been appraised to be archival. The orders provide sufficient coverage of the vacuum hearings. The vacuum application and hearing files do not have any administrative value nor do they have sufficient value to warrant archival retention. However, the vacuum orders do not cover the full range of dates in this series of vacuum application files. Therefore, the box of vacuum hearing files will be transferred to the Archives and we will remove files for 1932-1935 since the vacuum files contain a copy of the order or a letter stating whether the application was approved. The remaining files will be discarded.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Gas potential test files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Probably, part of this series is likely contained in the series Oil and gas status reports
Annual accumulation: none

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1933-1937 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
This series contains gas potential test forms and correspondence with the Railroad Commission concerning gas purchases, gas allowables, and gas potential tests. Dates covered are 1933-1937.Each test form gives the district, field, county, location of well, operator, lease, acres, well number, depth, casing size, tubing size, completion date, initial open flow, initial well-head pressure, pipeline company, and test data re: the open flow and the specific gravity.

Purpose:
These document interaction of the RRC with the oil and gas industry re: gas potential testing, gas allowables, and gas purchases.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Arranged topically by district, then field, then in reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series as it exists. The series Oil and gas status reports is related to the gas potential tests. Similar data is found in each series.
Title: Oil and gas status reports
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.018
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1933 or after 1937.

Appraisal decision:
This series primarily concerns testing of gas wells to determine their production potential. A current series on the retention schedule contains test data from gas wells, dating from 1930, see Oil and gas status reports. This series has a 100 year retention period, more than sufficient to document testing of gas wells. The correspondence in the series concerning gas purchases and gas allowables is routine correspondence and does not require further documentation. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Refinery audit material

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1931-1940 and comprise about 0.5 cubic feet.

Description:
These are audit materials of refinery operations, dating 1931-1940. Types of materials present include lists of employees, receipts of barrels of oil, adjustments to inventory, and delivery balances. The delivery balances were usually done monthly for several months of the year. Much of the information in the reports is statistical and presented in table format. Also present is correspondence with the RRC about figures introduced and questions to be answered. The audits appear to cover overproduction and allowables.

Purpose:
These audit refinery operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by company, then in reverse chronological order within the folders.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
Data from refinery operations is summed up annually and published in Oil and Gas Division Annual Report.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1973.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Oil and Gas Annual Report, 1935-1936, 1939-1996.

Gaps: No records are present in this series prior to 1931 or after 1940.

Appraisal decision:
These records were used by the RRC to audit refinery operations, especially overproduction and allowables. A summary of refinery operations is published annually in the Oil and Gas Division Annual Report, which is sufficient coverage of their operations. These reports date from 1931. Audits of refinery operations have short-term administrative value and no real historical value. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Air or gas lift forms

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1936-1947 and comprise four cubic feet.

Description:
These are air or gas lift forms, dating 1936-1947. The data provided includes the operator, field, lease, name of lift device used, type of system, input/output pressure, size of tubing, packer, date of installation, and a description or sketch of proposed lift hookup. Later reports have a more detailed description of the lift device as opposed to a sketch; some correspondence is also present.

Purpose:
These describe and document lift devices used in well operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by field.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to 1936 or after 1947.

Appraisal decision:
These files describe air or gas lift devices used in well operations, presumably in the pumping device. I was unable to find out anything more about this function, either from the agency or by checking oil and gas journals the Archives' holds from that period. This data may have some historic value in documenting the mechanics of pumping operations in early years of the oil and gas industry. However, such technology was not limited to Texas, operations should be documented elsewhere. I do not see any long-term value in this information nor do I see any series on the RRC schedule where this data might be found today. The records cover a 13 year time frame, leading me to believe the other years of data (if any existed) were disposed of long ago. Since the RRC has set long retention periods for so many of their records, one would think if this had long-term administrative or legal value, it would be on the RRC schedule. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Pipeline hearings and miscellaneous data

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Oil and Gas Division or Gas Services Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: The series of hearing/litigation files these records were taken from is unknown.

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1957 and comprise about 15 cubic feet.

Description:
This series contains exhibits used in pipeline hearings, cover letters, and letters to the Railroad Commission containing data about companies' business operations, structures, etc. Dates covered are ca. 1957. Exhibits include county surveys and/or ownership plats showing oil and gas features; lists of lease holders/leases connected, giving description, property number, operator, date connected, location; lists of pipeline companies and wells, giving property number, operator, description, county, number of wells, allowable for the year, and runs for the year; and lists of properties connected to pipeline gathering line facilities. Cover letters are from the company to the RRC and contain supplemental data, giving the RRC order number, date, cause, and oil and gas docket number. Additional letters to the RRC contain information requested by the commission for the conduct of the cases, such as business operations, company structure, cost of installation, and pipeline extension data.

Purpose:
These serve as a record of evidence presented to the Railroad Commission during pipeline hearings.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Gas Services Division works to ensure that a continuous safe supply of gas is available to Texas consumers at the lowest, reasonable rates. The division establishes rates and services that are fair and reasonable for gas utilities and their customers; enforces those rates; maintains safety standards in the gas and hazardous liquids pipeline systems throughout the state by inspection and investigation of any hazards or accidents; oversees intrastate gathering and storage services; and adopts and maintains adequate safety rules and standards in the handling, transportation, and odorization of LP-gases (liquefied petroleum gases) for dealers, handlers, and consumers. It further regulates propane and compressed natural gas by requiring anyone working with these gases to pass a written qualifying exam administered by the Commission. The division also focuses on regulatory policy and analysis as well as identifying and eliminating natural gas transportation problems. There are four main sections in this division - Audit, Liquefied Petroleum Gas, Pipeline Safety, and Regulatory and Analysis.

Arrangement: By case number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
These files were removed from the series Hearing files or Gas utilities litigation files sometime in the past, possibly because of the type of case, actual reason for removal is unknown.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series. Pipeline hearings are hearing files, either part of the series Hearing files or the series Gas utilities litigation files.
Title: Hearing files - paper
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.011
Archival code: none
Retention: PM

Title: Hearing files - microfilm
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 4.012
Archival code: none
Retention: 100

Title: Gas utilities docket files/transcripts/exhibits
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.089
Archival code: none
Retention: AC+1 (paper)

Title: Litigation files (gas utilities dockets)
Series item number: 1.1.048
Agency item number: 5.090
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Title: Gas utilities docket transcripts/exhibits
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.091
Archival code: none
Retention: 10 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records cover only ca. 1957.

Appraisal decision:
These are hearing files concerning a specific type of hearing over a narrow time frame. At some point these files were part of a series of hearing files, either hearing files of the Oil and Gas Division or the litigation files of the Gas Utilities Division. The nature of the exhibits present in the pipeline hearing files is more in line with exhibits found in the series Hearing files. The agency needs to review these files and determine which series they belong with. If Hearing files, the RRC considers them permanent and they have been appraised to be archival. If they are part of the series Gas utilities docket transcripts/exhibits, the series of litigation files in the Gas Utilities Division containing the exhibits, they have a 10 year retention period. Once the correct series is determined, the files need to be placed with other records in that series. If they are the gas utilities exhibit files, their retention period is fulfilled and they can be discarded. If hearing files, the agency needs to see if they were microfilmed in the past, if not, they should be filmed. Once microfilmed, the records can be filed with the other records in the hearing series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Administrative correspondence

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Rail Division

Contact: Ana Kirk

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: three inches

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for three years after the end of the calendar year. Current holdings are dated 1997-[ongoing], comprising less than one cubic foot. Records are maintained in the Rail Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are memos to and from rail safety inspectors and administrative personnel, and between Commissioners, the division director, and senior management personnel, dating 1997-[ongoing]. Topics covered include policies, procedures, current issues, federal and state rail safety regulations, work tasks and assignments, etc., most relative to the administration of the rail safety program. Some memos pertain to the rail safety program exclusively and deal with inspection activities and enforcement of regulations. Other memos focus on procedural and administrative matters of the Rail Division.

At one time, the web page of the Rail Division provided a great deal of information about the rail safety and rail planning activities of the division and had several sets of statistical compilations about rail safety. See http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/rail/rail.html.

Purpose:
Correspondence records communications among staff relative to the administration of the rail safety program and the administration of the Rail Division.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

The Commission's authority over railroads diminished over the latter half of the twentieth century. The Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 vested rail safety responsibilities in the Federal Railroad Administration. In 1980, the Federal Staggers Rail Act largely eliminated the Commission's responsibility for setting rates for intrastate railroads. By 1984, the Commission ceased its role in the economic regulation of the Texas rail industry. Regulatory powers over rail safety were granted to the agency in 1985 when the 69th Legislature authorized the Commission to implement a rail safety program in conjunction with the Federal Railroad Administration Act of 1970 (Senate Bill 444, 69th Legislature, Regular Session).

The Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry to prevent the waste of resources and to protect property rights and the environment. It oversees hazardous materials pipelines and natural gas pipelines and distribution systems as well as propane, butane, compressed natural gas, and liquefied natural gas. The Commission licenses and conducts seminars for dealers and their employees. It also oversees: railroad safety and rail planning; surface mining for coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel; and land reclamation when mining is complete.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Rail Division is responsible for checking equipment and track, railroad and signal operations, and hazardous material handling; conducting investigations of accidents and complaints concerning railroads; and securing federal funds to improve branch lines and preserve rail service to rural areas. The Division enforces rules aimed at removing obstructions on railroad rights-of-way and operates a crossing safety education program. There are two main sections in this division - Rail Safety and Rail Planning.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by correspondent, then chronological.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series described by five divisions/offices. We are describing it separately for each, so it will appear in this report five times.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Internet pages based on records:
General information page about the Rail Division activities: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/rail/rail.html

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Administrative correspondence
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: A.007
Archival code: R
Retention: CE+3

Archival holdings:
The Archives holds several series of correspondence and reports concerning early activities of the Railroad Commission in carrying out its function of regulating railroads, dating from 1891-1948. They are only marginally related to the series of correspondence under review since the current records primarily concern rail safety and not all railroad regulation issues.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records present in this series prior to 1997.

Appraisal decision:
The correspondence documents internal communications concerning the administration of the Rail Division, primarily its rail safety program, rail inspections, and enforcement of regulations. Much of the correspondence is of a general administrative nature concerning the operation of the Rail Division, whose primary function is the rail safety program. Division activities are noted in the Legislative Appropriation Requests and the Strategic Plans. The correspondence has short-term administrative value to the agency as it covers internal matters of the division, and little, if any long-term value. Even though there is not a great deal of documentation in agency reports about the activities of this division, the Archives does not feel this series of correspondence would provide sufficient coverage of the rail programs to warrant permanent retention in the Archives. The administrative rules and what statistics are in the Legislative Appropriation Request and the Strategic Plan document what this division does adequately. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Add this series to the section of the retention schedule containing records of the Rail Division with an archival code of E and add the following note to the Remarks column for this series - "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Geographic Information System, rail maps layer

Agency: Railroad Commission
Rail Division (maps are digitized by the Oil and Gas Division)

Contact: Ana Kirk

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: not applicable

Agency holdings:
This is a layer of maps in a Geographic Information System. Earliest dates of some data in this layer are unknown, such as the dates of U.S.G.S. topographic maps. Rail data on the maps is dated in the 1990s. This series is not on the retention schedule yet and thus does not have an assigned retention period.

Description:
This is a layer of maps in the Geographic Information System (GIS) of the Railroad Division, providing railroad lines, rail owners, and rail inspectors' territory. Dates of the rail data in this layer of maps are the 1990s. Base map information was obtained directly from U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute quadrangle maps. Rail data was added from records in the RRC. The rail maps feature county boundaries, a few cities and towns, the railroad lines, and rail inspector's territory. The railroad lines are color coded to show line owners. No paper copies are maintained in this series. Current sets of paper maps showing rail inspection territory and rail lines are in the series Maps, territory, rail safety inspection (5.013).

Maps are produced upon demand, often for the public. Digital data can be purchased. The agency is in the process of migrating the GIS to ARCINFO software. RRC staff are preparing metadata for this layer of maps, but it has not yet been integrated into the GIS. There are two other layers of map data in the GIS. Map data produced by the Oil and Gas Division is in the series Geographic Information Services system, oil and gas map layer (not on schedule). Pipeline data produced by the Gas Services Division is in the series Digital data pipeline map files - electronic (5.073).

Digital access to maps in the GIS is available through the agency directly or through its website, see http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/maps/index.html.

Purpose:
This system graphically illustrates rail lines in the state and rail inspection territory assigned to rail inspectors.

Agency program:
The Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry to prevent the waste of resources and to protect property rights and the environment. It oversees hazardous materials pipelines and natural gas pipelines and distribution systems as well as propane, butane, compressed natural gas, and liquefied natural gas, including licensing and conducting seminars for dealers and their employees. It also oversees railroad safety and rail planning; surface mining for coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel; and land reclamation when mining is complete.

Four divisions have regulatory functions: the Gas Services Division, the Oil and Gas Division, the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division, and the Rail Division. The Office of the General Counsel's Enforcement Section has enforcement powers, and the Alternative Fuels Research and Education Division has research and education functions. Support divisions include the Public Information Office, Personnel, Finance and Administration, Information Technology Services, Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Office of Internal Audit. The three Commissioners direct the operations of the agency.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: not applicable, this is a database.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: Public access available through the Information Technology Services Division and the Internet. Digital data can be purchased through ITS.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
The agency needs to finish creating its metadata and fully integrate it into the GIS system for this map layer. And, the agency needs to consider taking snapshots of the data at various points in time.

Known related records in other agencies:
Complete sets of U.S.G.S. maps are found in several locations, including the U.S. Department of the Interior, the Perry Castenada Library, etc.

Publications based on records: None

Internet pages based on records at one time, but no longer present:
Page showing the Texas Railroads Map: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/rail/rail_map.html
Page showing the Rural Rail Transportation Districts: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/rail/rural2rail.gif

Suggested series data from state retention schedule:
Title: Geographic Information System, rail maps layer
Series item number: none
Agency item number: none
Archival code: none
Retention: AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None known

Appraisal decision:
This data ties in with the GIS layers described in other series, see Geographic Information System, oil and gas maps layer (not on schedule) and Digital data pipeline map files - electronic (5.073). There is value in the rail lines information, especially since it includes the owners. The Archives does get requests for railroad maps showing rail line owners and the Archives has very few. The maps in the rail layer of the GIS have been appraised as archival. The agency needs to add this series to the schedule with an archival code of A. We are not currently accepting electronic records at the Library and Archives Commission. At some point in the future if we begin to accept such files, we will apprise the RRC on the steps necessary to migrate the system and the data to the Archives. For now, the RRC needs to comply with 13 Texas Administrative Code, Section 6.95 (b), on the Final Disposition of Electronic Records, as follows: "An electronic state record that is an archival record must be maintained by the agency through hardware and software migrations and upgrades as authentic evidence of the state's business in accessible and searchable form, except as otherwise determined by the state archivist." It also needs to keep the metadata and data dictionaries current. A copy of the database should be made regularly to document the data as it existed. We request a paper copy of rail maps within the GIS, either on the county or state level, showing rail lines and owners now and every ten years thereafter.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Railroad abandonments

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Rail Division

Contact: Mike Jones

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: None

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for 25 years according to the retention schedule. Actual dates covered are 1960-1999, comprising four cubic feet. Records are maintained in the Rail Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are filings by railroads with the Interstate Commerce Commission and/or Safety Transportation Board in federal proceedings (the State of Texas was not involved), decisions of the ICC/STC, plus miscellaneous documents pertaining to those proceedings. The records concern the abandonment of railroad lines. Dates covered are 1960-1999. There are no original RRC records in the abandonment files. Filings were made through the Interstate Commerce Commission and/or the Safety Transportation Board - the filings should be at those agencies if they have been retained. Holdings of federal agencies in regard to these proceedings is unknown.

Purpose:
According to Rail Division staff, the abandonment files serve no relevant purpose at the RRC since the state rail plan was published in 1979. Prior to that date, the records had marginal value in the rail planning process serving as research materials for hired consultants.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Interstate Commerce Commission or the Safety Transportation Board have (or had) the original records. Whether the agencies still hold these files is unknown.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Railroad abandonments
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.019
Archival code: R
Retention: 25 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
None based on these records. The Documents Collections does hold a related publication, the State Rail Plan, 1979, and several updates, dated 1981, 1982-1983, and 1984-1985.

Gaps: None according to the agency.

Appraisal decision:
The abandonment filings provide some documentation on railroad lines abandoned in Texas. This information has also been reported in the annual reports of railroad companies. The files are in fact federal records of abandonment filings and proceedings used as reference files by the Railroad Commission. They do not have any administrative value to the Railroad Commission outside of documenting over a period of time when lines were abandoned, thus the 25 year retention period. Since this data is also available in the annual reports of railroad companies that have already been appraised as archival the Archives does not need to acquire the abandonment files. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Remove the archival code of R from the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Annual reports, railroad companies

Agency: Railroad Commission
Rail Division

Contacts: Ana Kirk or Mike Jones

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: several inches

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained in the Rail Division at agency headquarters for three years, then transferred to the Library and Archives Commission. Dates covered are 1997-[ongoing], comprising about one cubic feet

Description:
These are annual reports of railroad companies operating in Texas that were required by the Railroad Commission. Dates of reports at the agency are 1997-[ongoing]. The Archives holds the reports dating back to 1859. Each report provides the company's organization, operation, and financial condition. Other data present may include names of officers and directors, incorporation data, capital stock, funded debt, property owned or leased, employees and salaries, number of passengers, amount of freight transported, mileage of track operated, and injuries to persons or other accidents.

Recent changes in federal law removed the requirement that rail companies file the annual reports with the Railroad Commission. RRC staff think the larger rail companies will continue to file the annual reports.

Purpose:
These reports were filed in compliance with the enabling legislation of the RRC, requiring railroad companies to file annual reports with the RRC (House Bills 1, 3, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological, then alphabetical by railroad company name.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: This is not on the schedule.
Suggested series data from state records schedule: None, I suggest the series be added as follows:
Title: Annual reports, railroad companies
Series item number: none
Agency item number: to be assigned
Archival code: A
Retention: 3

Archival holdings:
Annual reports of railroad companies, 1859-1867, 1873-1885, 1890-1996, 380.24 cubic ft.
These are annual reports of railroad companies. Dates covered are 1859-1867, 1873-1885, 1890-1996. Railroad companies operating in the State of Texas were required by law to prepare annual reports concerning their activities beginning in 1853. Legislation approved February 7, 1853, entitled, "An Act to Regulate Railroad Companies," designated the Comptroller of Public Accounts as the receiver of such reports. Railroad companies continued to file annual reports with the Comptroller until 1894. The act creating the Railroad Commission in 1891 gave the Commission authority to elicit information in the form of a report. Comprehensive annual reports encompassing a wide range of subjects were soon required of all companies operating lines within the State. The first reports filed with the Railroad Commission, known as the Circular Number 22 reports, were filed in 1891.

Each report details the company's organization, operation, and financial condition. Data present may include the names of officers, directors, and stockholders; incorporation and organizational structure; capital stock; funded debt; property owned or leased; cost of road, equipment, and permanent improvements; operating expenses; income account; stocks and bonds owned; earnings from operations; rentals received; employees and salaries; number of passengers; amount of freight transported; mileage of track operated; and injuries to persons or other accidents. Most of the reports cover the company's operations for the calendar year. A few of the earlier reports cover partial year operations.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
The annual reports provide valuable information about railroad companies operating in Texas, detailing aspects of their organization and activities throughout the year. The reports are generally accessed several times a year at the Archives and have been used heavily at times by researchers. Because of the historical information they provide about railroad companies in the state, they have been appraised as archival. Even though recent legislation has removed the requirement that companies file such reports with the RRC, RRC staff feel that the larger companies will continue to file. Since this should be a continuing series, it needs to be added to the retention schedule with an archival code of A. The RRC needs to continue to transfer the reports to the Archives and Information Services Division as their retention period is fulfilled.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Rail tariff files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Rail Division

Contact: Susan Rhyne, Railroad Commission Librarian

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: None

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
These are bound volumes of tariffs, comprising about 45 cubic feet. Dates covered are 1901-1984. The tariffs are housed in the Railroad Commission Library. The tariffs are not on the retention schedule.

Description:
These are intrastate tariffs issued by the Railroad Commission, and some interstate tariffs issued by the federal government. Dates covered are 1901-1984. Tariffs are publications of rates, rules and regulations concerning railroads. The 1891 act that created the Railroad Commission empowered it to adopt the necessary rates, regulations, and charges in connection with railroad freight and passengers. The Railroad Commission promulgated the tariffs for intrastate commerce on railroads but did not itself publish them. The RRC required railroads companies to publish and submit the companies' proposed general and specific tariffs. The Commission would then issue the approved tariffs and keep copies of the proposed general and specific tariffs as reference tools.

Each type of merchandise or commodity was classified by the Railroad Commission and had its own shipping rate. The more important commodities, such as cotton, had their own tariffs published and issued. Other commodities were grouped as categories: vegetables, lumber products, etc. The cost of shipping was usually figured for every 100 pounds of merchandise. There are several sets of tariffs in this series: Railroad freight circulars, 1901-1984; Texas lines tariffs, ca. 1913-ca. 1932; Uniform freight classification, 1961-1982; Southwestern lines freight bureau, 1981-1984; Perishable protective tariffs, 1920-1927; American Railway Association tariffs, 1924-1950; Texas lines switching tariffs, 1968-1973; Western classification tariffs, 1918-1962; Mileage allowances and rules, 1968-1971; Standard transportation commodity code, 1968-1974; Demurrage and storage tariffs, 1958-1970s; Tariffs of increased rates and charges, (dates unknown); Texas transport tariffs, class and commodity rates, 1944-1945; and Texas/Louisiana lines routing circulars, 1937-1953.

Purpose:
Tariffs are publications of rates, rules and regulations of common carriers, in this case, railroads.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Arranged topically by title, then in chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? None

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None known

Publications based on records:
The records are publications.

Series data from agency schedule: This is not on the schedule.
Suggested series data from state retention schedule: None, the agency has recently decided to dispose of tariffs not transferred to the Archives so the series will not be added to the schedule.

Archival holdings:
Tariffs, 1890-1929, 4 cubic ft.
These are intrastate tariffs issued by the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are 1890-1929. Tariffs are publications of rates, rules and regulations concerning railroads. The 1891 act that created the Railroad Commission empowered it to adopt the necessary rates, regulations, and charges in connection with railroad freight and passengers. The tariffs are concerned with freight rates and list the cost of shipping merchandise between Texas cities.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: There are gaps in the various sets; exact dates missing are unknown since the beginning date is unknown.

Appraisal decision:
This series contains bound volumes of tariffs, covering both intrastate tariffs of the Railroad Commission and some interstate tariffs issued by the federal government. The Archives has some old intrastate tariffs issued by the Railroad Commission in the Archives, covering the early years of the RRC, 1890-1929. The survey archivist, Paul Beck, recommended keeping the small amount we had because it offered historical information in a unique format. He also acknowledged that keeping the tariffs as historical artifacts may not be warranted, but since it was a small amount, we should retain what we have. The tariffs being reviewed in this series are bound volumes of various sets. Many of the sets cover just a few years and do not provide good coverage of that particular type of tariff. And, some of the tariffs are interstate, especially later ones. I agree with Beck to keep the ones we have - they cover the early years of the Commission and are tariffs issued directly by the Railroad Commission. The early tariffs are a good source of historical documentation on the operations of railroads and the transportation of freight in Texas.

This series has been appraised to be archival. No changes need to be made to the retention schedule since this is an obsolete series and the agency intends to dispose of any tariffs the Archives does not want. We do not need to keep all of the sets of tariffs. We should obtain the earlier tariffs with long runs and those that focus on Texas lines. The series we need transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division are the Railroad freight circulars, ca. 1901-1984; the Texas lines tariffs, ca. 1913-ca. 1932; the Texas/Louisiana lines routing circulars, 1937-1953; and the Western Classification tariffs, 1918-1962. The agency is ready to transfer any tariffs we request and will dispose of the tariffs we do not take.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Administrative correspondence (RAP)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division, Regulatory and Policy Analysis Section (RAP)

Contact: Jackie Standard

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 5 linear feet

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency for three years. Current holdings are 1997-[ongoing] and comprise 12 linear feet. Files are maintained in the Regulatory Analysis and Policy Section, Gas Services Division, at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are memoranda and incoming/outgoing letters relating to the development and administration of division policies, procedures, programs, and other major transactions. Dates covered are 1997-[ongoing]. These records concern the RAP's regulatory responsibilities over gas utilities and its position as policy analyst for the Commission. Correspondents include Commissioners, other staff, pipelines and utilities, pipeline and utility customers, and other regulatory agencies.

Purpose:
The administrative correspondence is created and maintained in the course of the RAP's regulatory responsibilities over gas utilities and its position as policy analyst for the Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Files are maintained separately by those who use them most often, and then generally arranged alphabetically by topic and in reverse chronological order with the files.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
There is not a centralized file for this series within the Gas Services Division, rather each section (or individuals within the section) keeps their own. Also, this is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule five divisions/offices have administrative correspondence and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Administrative correspondence
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: A.007
Archival code: R
Retention: CE+3

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records present in this series prior to 1997.

Appraisal decision:
These correspondence files concern the regulatory responsibilities of the RAP section of the Gas Services Division and its position as policy analyst for the Railroad Commission. Summary documentation of the activities of the Gas Services Division can be found in its annual report, Annual Report of the Gas Services Division. However, this correspondence appears to be a substantial source of information about the division, its programs, and regulatory functions. This correspondence has evidential value as it documents the division's functions and its communications with industry and the general public. This series has been appraised to be archival. This series needs to be added the retention schedule under the Gas Services section of the schedule, with an archival code of A. As the correspondence fulfills its retention period it needs to be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Speeches and papers (RAP)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division, Regulatory Analysis and Policy Section (RAP)

Contact: Jackie Standard

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: five linear feet

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency for two years. Current holdings are 1998-[ongoing] and comprise 8 linear feet. Files are maintained in the Regulatory Analysis and Policy Section, Gas Services Division, at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are original notes or text of speeches delivered by RAP staff in conjunction with agency work, dating 1998-[ongoing]. The staff often make presentations to industry and prepare speech materials for the Commissioners. Groups addressed include legislators, law groups, pipeline or utility organizations, municipal organizations, regulatory agencies, and professional associations.

Speeches and papers given by the Commissioners are maintained in a separate series, listed as part of the records of the Commissioners' offices.

Purpose:
Speeches provide both general and specific information about the functions of the agency to the public.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Arranged alphabetically by topic and in reverse chronological order within the files.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule three divisions/offices have speeches and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Speeches and papers
Series item number: 1.1.040
Agency item number: A.038
Archival code: R
Retention: 2

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present in this series prior to 1998.

Appraisal decision:
RRC staff have said that speeches/papers given by staff are the individual's interpretation of a rule or policy, and do not reflect agency policy. While there is a great deal of public interest in the actions of the Railroad Commission, this series does not provide information about agency operations that could not be found elsewhere, especially since the speeches are individual's opinions. We have appraised the speeches/papers of the commissioners to be archival since they are the highest ranking officials of the agency. That is sufficient coverage of this function. This is currently listed as an agency-wide series on the schedule. The Gas Services Division needs to add this series to their section of the schedule, with an archival exemption code of E and the following note in the Remarks section, "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division, Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Annual financial reports (gas utility companies)

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Gas Utility Audit

Contact: Shannon Miller

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: two microfilm reels

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for one year, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Microfilmed reports are retained for five years, then transferred to the Library and Archives Commission. Paper records comprise about 4.5 cubic feet. There are 10 rolls of microfilm. Dates covered are 1993-[ongoing]. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are annual financial reports of gas utilities companies required by the Gas Utilities Division of the Railroad Commission (RRC). Dates of the reports in the agency are 1993-[ongoing]. The Archives holds reports from 1920-1995. These reports are of intrastate and interstate companies that do business in Texas. The reports provide financial and organizational data on these companies, including names of officers and their affiliates, tax information, operating revenue, balance sheets; and some production data, including volumes of gas purchased, gas plant production, and miles of pipeline used. Some data from the reports is in an in-house database. Gas utilities are required to file an annual report with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). For some, an additional report is required by the RRC. Utilities that do not in engage in intrastate sales or intrastate transport of gas can file a copy of their annual report to the FERC with the RRC. Some companies doing interstate business will also file a copy of their FERC reports. The FERC reports are filmed with the other annual reports. The FERC reports are similar but are more detailed and include company operations in other states.

The annual report of the Gas Services Division is a compilation of statistical data extracted from the individual annual financial reports filed by gas utilities.

Purpose:
Annual reports of gas utilities are filed as required under 16 TAC, §7.40. Section 7.40 states that each gas utility operating in Texas file a general annual report with the Railroad Commission to enable the Commission to properly regulate natural gas utilities within the state.

The Railroad Commission's authority was broadened beginning in 1917 with the passage of the Pipeline Petroleum Law, Senate Bill 68, 35th Legislature, Regular Session, that declared pipelines to be common carriers like railroads and placed them under the Commission's jurisdiction. This was the first act to designate the Railroad Commission as the agency to administer conservation laws relating to oil and gas.

The Commission's regulatory and enforcement powers in oil and gas were increased by Senate Bill 350 of the 36th Legislature, Regular Session, the Oil and Gas Conservation Law, effective June 18, 1919. This act gave the Railroad Commission jurisdiction to regulate the production of oil and gas. Acting upon this legislation, the Commission adopted in 1919 the first statewide rules regulating the oil and gas industry to promote conservation and safety, including Rule 37. This rule requires minimum distances between wells at drilling sites in order to protect field pressure and correlative rights.

The Gas Utilities Act of 1920, House Bill 11, 36th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, gave the Commission regulatory and rate authority over individuals and businesses producing, transporting, or distributing natural gas in Texas. In 1937, following a large natural gas explosion in a school in New London, Texas, the 45th Legislature passed legislation giving the Railroad Commission the authority to adopt rules and regulations pertaining to the odorization of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gases (House Bill 1017, Regular Session). The passage of the Public Regulatory Act of 1975 (PURA), House Bill 819, 64th Legislature, Regular Session, required certain state regulatory agencies, including the Commission, to set the overall revenues of a utility based on its "cost of service."

Regulation of liquefied petroleum was added to the Commission's responsibilities in 1939 by House Bill 792, 46th Legislature, Regular Session. The legislation authorized the Commission to adopt and enforce safety rules and standards in the storage, handling, transportation, and odorization of butane or LP-gases. Regulation of compressed natural gas was added to the Railroad Commission's responsibilities in 1983 (Senate Bill 617, 68th Legislature, Regular Session).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by company name.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes, there is an alphabetical index to company names.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Annual reports filed with FERC are available at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, years covered are unknown.

Previous destructions:
Gas utility company annual reports - two destruction requests were submitted in January 1989 and September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1983-1985, 1987 after microfilming.

Publications based on records:
Gas Services Division Annual Report (a compilation of statistical data extracted from the individual annual financial reports filed by gas utilities).

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Annual financial reports (gas utility companies)
Series item number: 4.5
Agency item number: 5.085
Archival code: none
Retention: CE+1 (paper)

Title: Annual financial reports (gas utility companies)
Series item number: 4.5
Agency item number: 5.086
Archival code: none
Retention: CE+5 (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
Annual reports of gas utilities companies, 1920-1995, 269 reels of microfilm
These are annual reports of gas utilities companies submitted to the Railroad Commission, dating 1920-1995.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: Related publications are:
Gas Utilities Division Annual Report, 1908-1921, 1975, 1977-1981, 1985-1988
Gas Services Division Annual Report, 1989-1998

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
The annual reports provide financial and organizational information, and some production data about gas utility companies in Texas. These reports have never been officially appraised as archival by Archives staff but have been transferred regularly to the Library and Archives Commission since 1981. These reports are used several times a year by researchers. Based on their administrative value in giving information about company operations, and on past research value the reports have been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is for one year. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." For future transfers of microfilm to the Archives, include a use copy as well as a master reel.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Pipeline related: Accident files reports and associated documentation

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Pipeline Safety

Contact: Angie Sambrano

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Retained for ten years after the end of the fiscal year. Dates covered are ca. 1988-[ongoing]. There are approximately 7.5 cubic feet of files, maintained in the Pipeline Safety Section, Gas Services Division, at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are reports of accidents involving pipelines, usually natural gas pipelines. Dates covered are ca. 1988-[ongoing]. Information in each report includes the operator's name and address, description of the accident, conditions at the time, type of facility, type of pipeline, materials transported, and what repair or cleanup is needed. Types of accidents could include a construction company breaking a line during construction, leaks, or explosions. The operator reports the accident. If the RRC considers it to be significant, an investigator goes on site and conducts an investigation. The operator files a report with the RRC, then the RRC sends a copy to the federal Office of Pipeline Safety. Information from these reports is also available in an online computer tracking system, Accident files reports and associated documentation (online tracking system) (5.062) [this series is not being reviewed in this report]. The online files date back to the early 1980s. Special investigations of pipeline accidents are in the series Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines (5.071). A series of old pipeline leak reports is the series Pipeline correspondence re: oil losses, 1960-1961. The number of leaks/accidents is provided in the annual reports of pipeline companies - see the series Annual reports, pipeline companies (5.063).

Some information in these reports may be confidential due to litigation or RRC administrative enforcement actions, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, Texas Government Code, 551.111.

Purpose:
Accident reports are filed in accordance with the 16 TAC, §7.84. Section 7.84 concerns the reports of accidents involving pipelines. Filing of reports involving hazardous liquids is also required in accordance with 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 195.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerical by report number.

Access constraints:
Some information in these reports may be confidential due to litigation or RRC administrative enforcement actions, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, Texas Government Code, 551.111.

Use constraints: Public may use the files, copies must be made by RRC staff.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Account numbers are retrieved though a mainframe database.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Reports of serious accidents are also at the federal Office of Pipeline Safety.

Publications based on records:
The number of leaks/accidents are reported in the annual reports of pipeline companies.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Pipeline related: Accident files reports and associated documentation
Series item number: 5.4
Agency item number: 5.061
Archival code: none
Retention: FE+10

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:

Gaps: No records present prior to 1988.

Appraisal decision:
These reports are being reviewed because we are reviewing files of oil and gas accidents/leaks, etc. housed in the Oil and Gas Division (O&G). The O&G accident files have a 100 year retention period, the Gas Services Division (GSD) accident reports only FE+10. Possibly the GSD reports have a much shorter retention period because most of these accidents involve natural gas, which has less of a residual effect on the environment. Regardless of the reasons, the Gas Services Division has a 10 year retention period for these reports because the staff feel that is a sufficient period of time to retain these accident reports. I agree and do not see any archival value in the GSD accident reports. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since it did not carry an archival code, no changes need to be made to the retention schedule for this series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Annual reports, pipeline companies

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Pipeline Safety

Contact: Angie Sambrano

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: several inches

Agency holdings:
Retained for five years. Dates of the files are ca. 1994-[ongoing]. Information from reports in the database is ca. 1980-[ongoing]. Files comprise about 1.5 cubic feet and are maintained in the Pipeline Safety Section, Gas Services Division, at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are annual reports submitted by pipeline companies operating in Texas. Dates of paper records are ca. 1994-[ongoing]. Information from reports in the database is ca. 1980-[ongoing]. These are one page reports that include the name and address of the operator, how many miles of jurisdictional intrastate pipeline in operation, hazardous liquids being transported, how many leaks/accidents they had, and size and length of the pipeline. There is no organizational information about the company except the operator's name and address. Information from the annual reports is maintained in an in-house database. Any leaks or explosions occurring are detailed in the series Pipeline related: accident files reports and associated documentation (5.061) or the series Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines (5.071).

Purpose:
Pipeline companies or operators are required to file an annual report in accordance with 16 TAC, §7.84. Section 7.84 states that each operator file an annual report listing line sizes and lengths, hazardous liquids being transported, and accident/failure data.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by company name.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Report numbers are accessed through a mainframe database.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Annual reports, pipeline companies
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.063
Archival code: none
Retention: 5 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No reports are present prior to about 1994, data in the database begins in 1980.

Appraisal decision:
These annual reports contain some data about pipeline companies operating in Texas, generally on the size and length of the line, types of materials transported, and how many leaks/accidents occurred. There is little information about the company - just the operator's name and address. Although these reports do provide a minimal amount of information, the Archives needs to review them as part of the appraisal of the RRC, as the annual reports of gas utility companies, the organization (annual) reports of oil and gas companies, and the annual reports of railroad companies are being reviewed. The three types of annual reports referred to provide more information about the company and their activities for the year than do the pipeline reports. The pipeline reports are the only summary data providing minimal information about the company and the number of accidents occurring. There is insufficient information in the annual pipeline company reports to warrant permanent retention. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since the series does not carry an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule for this series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Pipeline Safety

Contact: Angie Sambrano

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: several inches.

Agency holdings:
Retained for five years. Dates covered are ca. 1994-[ongoing]. Files comprise about 1.5 cubic feet and are maintained in the Pipeline Safety Section, Gas Services Division, at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are reports of investigations of leaks or spills involving hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines. Dates covered are ca. 1994-[ongoing]. Information in each report includes the operator's name and address, description of the accident, conditions at the time, type of facility, type of pipeline, materials transported, and what repairs or cleanup is needed. These reports generally start with a complaint about a gas or liquid leak, or an exposed pipeline. In most cases an investigator goes on site and conducts an investigation and files a report. Significant accidents/investigations ($50,000 or more in damages or injuries) are also reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Research and Special Program Administration because the RRC receives some grant money from this office to assist with the investigations of these particular cases.

Some information in these accident reports may be confidential due to litigation or RRC administrative enforcement actions, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, Texas Government Code, 551.111.

For other accident reports involving pipelines, see the series Pipeline related: Accident files reports and associated documentation (5.061). Information from these accident reports is also available in an online computer tracking system, Accident files reports and associated documentation (online tracking system) (5.062) [this series is not being reviewed in this report]. The online files date back to the early 1980s. A series of old pipeline leak reports is the series Pipeline correspondence re: oil losses, 1960-1961.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerical by report number.

Access constraints:
Some information in these accident reports may be confidential due to litigation or RRC administrative enforcement actions, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, Texas Government Code, 551.111.

Use constraints: Public may use the files, copies must be made by RRC staff.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Account numbers are retrieved though the mainframe database.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Reports of significant accidents are also available at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Research and Special Program Administration, dates covered are unknown.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.071
Archival code: none
Retention: 5 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present before about 1994.

Appraisal decision:
These accident reports are being reviewed because we are reviewing files of oil and gas accidents/leaks, etc. housed in the Oil and Gas Division (O&D). The O&D files have a 100 year retention period, the Gas Services Division (GSD) accident reports a five year retention. Possibly, these have a much shorter retention period because most of these accidents involve natural gas which has less of a residual effect on the environment. The Gas Services Division has a five year retention period for these accident files because the staff feel that is a sufficient period of time to retain the accident reports. I agree and do not see any archival value in the GSD accident reports. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Since it did not carry any archival code, no changes need to be made to the retention schedule for this series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Digital data pipeline map files - electronic

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Pipeline Safety

Contact: Terry Pardo

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: N/A

Agency holdings:
This is a layer of maps in the Geographic Information System of the agency. Dates of maps in this layer are at least the early 1970s, some data may be earlier.

Description:
This is a layer of maps in the Geographic Information System (GIS) of the Railroad Commission, providing oil and gas pipeline data. Dates of maps in this layer date from the early 1970s, some may date earlier. Features on the maps include routes of oil and gas pipelines in the state, the pipeline's diameter and system ID number, fluid transported, pipeline permit numbers, counties, and cities. The staff intend to link this information with the pipeline safety database through the pipeline's system ID number. Maps are produced upon demand, often for the public. Digital data can be purchased. The division has a digital set of county maps with pipeline data stored in response to frequent requests.

The agency is in the process of migrating the GIS to ARCINFO software. Staff are preparing metadata for this layer of maps to be integrated into the GIS. There are two other layers of map data in the GIS. Map data produced by the Rail Division is in series Geographic Information System, rail maps layer (not on schedule). Map data produced by the Oil and Gas Division is in the series Geographic Information System, oil and gas map layer (not on schedule).

This division keeps only current information on pipelines in the GIS and does not make a backup of superseded data before it is erased. The division still has paper copies of the source maps used to create this map layer that date back to the 1970s. See the series Pipeline map source data (5.074).

Digital copies of maps in the GIS are available through the agency directly or through its website, see: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/other-information/automated/itssmap.html.

Purpose:
The maps provide the routes of oil and gas pipelines and have related data (the system providing access electronically to staff and the general public).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: not applicable, the maps are stored electronically and accessed in various ways (county name, system ID number, etc.)

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: No public access through this division. Digital data is available for purchase through the Information Technology Services Division.

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
The agency needs to finish creating their metadata and fully integrate it into the GIS system for this map layer. And, the agency needs to consider taking snapshots of the data at various points in time.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Internet pages based on records:
Digital map data products: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/other-information/automated/itssmap.html

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Digital data pipeline map files - electronic
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.073
Archival code: none
Retention: US

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: unknown

Appraisal decision:
This is layer of maps in the Geographic Information System of the RRC. It is a visual resource showing where pipelines run and what they transport in the state and in each county. Unfortunately, the data is constantly overwritten with new information and this division (and the agency as well) does not take "snapshots in time" to document changes in the GIS. More data is replaced in the pipeline layer than in the others. In the oil and gas map layer, new wells are added, but not deleted. In the rail map layer the changes are mainly changes in the territory assigned to rail inspectors. In the pipeline layer, more things can change - new lines are laid or removed, and types of materials transported. The Archives have had periodic requests for oil and gas pipeline routes on oil and gas maps currently held at the Archives; we have few maps showing this data. Because of the informational value of the data within the GIS, both for current and future uses, the pipeline layer in the GIS has been appraised to be archival.

We are not currently accepting electronic records at the Library and Archives Commission. At some point in the future if we begin to accept such files, we will apprise the RRC on the steps necessary to migrate the system and the data to the Archives. For now, the RRC needs to comply with 13 Texas Administrative Code, Section 6.95 (b), on the Final Disposition of Electronic Records, as follows: "An electronic state record that is an archival record must be maintained by the agency through hardware and software migrations and upgrades as authentic evidence of the state's business in accessible and searchable form, except as otherwise determined by the state archivist." It also needs to keep the metadata and data dictionaries current. A copy of the database should be made regularly to document the data as it existed. We wish to receive a set of county pipeline maps now (on paper) and possibly every 10 years thereafter so we can document where the pipelines ran. When we receive the pipeline map source data, we may continue to request a set of paper maps every ten years, or may decide not to. That determination will be made at a later time.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Pipeline map source data

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Pipeline Safety

Contact: Terry Pardo

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: several feet

Agency holdings:
Retained as long as administratively valuable. Dates covered are early 1970s-[ongoing]. The maps are filed with the pipeline permits (series 5.075.1, a series not reviewed for archival value in this report). Currently there are about 3000 active permits and 3000 inactive permits, comprising about 100 file drawers. Pipeline permits are retained as long as they are administratively valuable. Maps and permits are maintained in the Pipeline Safety Section, Gas Services Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are maps and documents containing oil and gas pipeline data used as source material for pipeline maps in the agency's Geographic Information System (GIS), dating from the 1970s-[ongoing]. The maps are sent in by operators when they are applying for a permit to operate a pipeline. The operators are required to submit a map, either a USGS map or a county highway map, onto which they add oil and gas pipelines, and a detailed map of the gathering system. The accompanying permit request (form T-4) contains information about the diameter of the pipe, use of the pipeline, fluid transported, etc. Information from the map and form is entered into the GIS of the agency, creating the layer of pipeline map data. See the series Digital data pipeline map files (5.073). Data from the form is also entered into an in-house database of pipeline information.

The process of issuing permits to operate pipelines is regulated by Statewide Rule 70 (16 TAC, §3.65).

Purpose:
The permits to operate pipelines are filed as required by Statewide Rule 70 (16 TAC, §3.65). The maps serve as source material for the digital pipeline maps.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerically by permit number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? These is a computer printout, arranged alphabetical by county, then company. Also present are lists in numerical order, one for active permits, one for inactive permits.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Pipeline map source data
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.074
Archival code: none
Retention: AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Yes, but dates missing are unknown. The public is allowed to check out the maps and occasionally they are not returned to the agency.

Appraisal decision:
These are maps and documents used as source material for the digital data pipeline map files - series Digital data pipeline map files (5.073). They have value in documenting data about the location of pipelines, etc., because new data constantly overwrites old data in the digital maps located in the agency's Geographic Information System. One problem is this series consists of lots of county maps from different eras and operators and it is unknown how comprehensive the pipeline coverage is. Also, the maps can be checked out and are not always returned. The pipeline source maps need to be retained for their superseded data. This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. When the maps no longer have administrative value at the agency, transfer them to the Archives and Information Services Division. The Archives will also request a paper set of the county maps in the GIS to document pipelines at this time, possibly getting a set every ten years to provide continuing documentation. At some point, the Archives may cease obtaining the source maps if we can get sufficient coverage through the GIS. That determination will be made at a later time.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Gas utilities litigation files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Regulatory Analysis and Policy

Contact: Jackie Standard

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 2-4 microfilm rolls, depending on the number of cases processed to completion

Agency holdings:
The entire file is retained in paper for one year after closure of the case. At that point, exhibits, transcripts, and any confidential materials are segregated, and everything else is microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy of the microfilmed materials is destroyed. The retention period for the microfilm of the litigation files is 100 years. Dates covered are 1920-[ongoing]. There are seven file drawers of paper files and 200 rolls of microfilm. The exhibits and transcripts are microfilmed separately, then the paper copy is destroyed. The retention period for the microfilm of the exhibits and transcripts is 10 years. The confidential materials are maintained in paper copy for an indefinite period. The agency eventually plans to scan the litigation files to CD-ROM.

The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are litigation files concerning gas utility cases. Dates covered are 1920-[ongoing]. The files contain statements of intent, appeals, complaints, applications, proposals for decisions, legal briefs, transcripts, exhibits, reports of special masters, conference materials, requests for information, notices, final orders, rule-makings, etc. The RRC hears applications from gas utilities to abandon sections of gas pipelines, to remove meters from private residences, to discontinue service, and most frequently, to be allowed to change natural gas rates. Rates set by cities are often appealed by gas utilities by application to the RRC for a rate hearing. Citizens can also apply to the RRC to fix "fair and reasonable" rates, to petition for the installation of natural gas lines, and to complain about service matters. Other cases include administrative enforcement actions taken by the RRC against companies for violations or noncompliance. The hearings are conducted (or enforcement actions taken) by the Gas Utilities and LP-Gas Section of the Office of the General Counsel. An in-house database tracks litigation involving natural gas.

Some information in the litigation files is confidential while litigation is ongoing, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or is confidential due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, or attorney work product, Texas Government Code, 551.111. Customer lists submitted by utilities are confidential commercial information, Texas Government Code, 551.110.

Regulation of gas utility companies by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 7.

Purpose:
Litigation files are produced by legal and enforcement actions taken by the agency concerning gas utility company violations/operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Office of the General Counsel is the enforcement branch of the agency. The Enforcement Section handles enforcement cases for all the agency's regulatory areas and ensures the commissions orders and rules are followed. The Gas Utilities and LP-Gas Section handle rate-setting cases for gas transportation and utility companies and safety compliance cases involving the natural gas, LP-gas, and compressed natural gas industries, as well as cases involving enforcement of the gas utility tax.

Arrangement: Chronological by docket number.

Access constraints:
Some information in the docket files is confidential while litigation is ongoing, Texas Government Code, 551.103; or is confidential due to staff advice, opinion, or recommendation, or attorney work product, Texas Government Code, 551.111. And, customer lists submitted by utilities are confidential commercial information, Texas Government Code, 551.110.

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes, indices

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Internet pages based on records:
Hearing schedules are posted on the RRC site, see http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/support-divisions/gc/hearschd/hearschd.html.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Gas utilities docket files/transcripts/exhibits
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.089
Archival code: none
Retention: AC+1 (paper)

Title: Litigation files (gas utilities dockets)
Series item number: 1.1.048
Agency item number: 5.090
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Title: Gas utilities docket transcripts/exhibits
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.091
Archival code: none
Retention: 10 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
Docket case files, 1920-1973, 25 microfilm reels
This series contains records of hearings held by the Railroad Commission to consider the rate and service requests from natural gas utilities or their consumers, dating 1920-1973. Types of materials present in the case files include correspondence, petitions and appeals, rate applications, notices of hearings, and transcripts of the hearings, that include legal briefs, testimony, exhibits, and actions taken by the Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None, the series began in 1920.

Appraisal decision:
These are litigation files of the Gas Services Division concerning gas utilities cases. They are in three series on the schedule, the agency intends to create one series, as described in this series review. Because there is a different retention period for the exhibits/transcripts - 10 years vs. 100 years for the litigation files, two series should remain on the schedule. The Archives has received microfilm of older litigation files in the past, covering 1920-1973. (The guide survey archivist, Paul Beck, did not include an appraisal when he conducted the guide survey.) The litigation files document a significant function of the Gas Services Division, the setting of gas utility rates (as a result of litigation). The files also document enforcement actions against gas utilities, the installation or removal of gas lines, etc. These litigation files have evidential value as they record actions of the RRC in gas utilities issues and have historical value as they document these processes over a long period, back to 1920. The transcripts and exhibits are not needed to document these functions. The series Litigation files (gas utilities dockets) has been appraised to be archival. Change the archival code to A. Add a note in the Remarks section of the schedule - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of one year after closure of the case. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Continue to transfer the microfilm to the Archives and Information Services Division, sending both a master and a use copy. A separate series for the transcripts/exhibits should continued on the schedule given it has a different retention period. A note needs to be added to the retention schedule as follows: "Original paper record maintained for one year after closure. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed."

The RRC has said it may eventually scan the records and keep the scanned images in place of the originals. If the records are scanned, it will be the responsibility of the Railroad Commission to comply with 13 Texas Administrative Code, Section 6.95 (b), on the Final Disposition of Electronic Records, as follows: "An electronic state record that is an archival record must be maintained by the agency through hardware and software migrations and upgrades as authentic evidence of the state's business in accessible and searchable form, except as otherwise determined by the state archivist."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Special project files/plans and planning records

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Regulatory Analysis and Policy

Contact: Jackie Standard

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained for one year after calendar year end, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. The microfilm has a retention period of AC+10. Dates covered are 1990-[ongoing]. There are currently four cubic feet of paper records, 10 rolls of microfilm. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are reports and project files concerning rate related issues in the gas utility industry. Dates covered are 1990-[ongoing]. Types of materials present include industry reports, administrative reports, computer print-outs, forms, tables, working papers, confidential customer service information (i.e. trade secrets), planning records, and staff legal opinions. Some of the statistical data is published in the annual report of the division, Gas Services Division Annual Report (a compilation of statistical data extracted from the individual annual financial reports filed by gas utilities). This report is sent to the Publications Depository Program of the Library and Archives Commission. Other statistical data is published quarterly in Six MCF Gas Bill Analysis (an analysis of a six mcf gas bill for twenty-five Texas cities. ["six mcf" reflects the approximate monthly average consumption of gas on an annual basis in the state]. The majority of the reports are not summarized or available elsewhere within the Railroad Commission.

Some of this material is confidential under Texas Government Code 552.101 (trade secrets) or 552.111 (staff advice, opinion, or recommendation).

Regulation of gas utility companies by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 7.

Purpose:
These reports and files are used to gather and produce rate-related information about the gas utilities industry as part of the planning process of the Gas Services Division.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological by completion date.

Access constraints:
Yes. Some of this material is confidential under Texas Government Code 552.110 (trade secrets) or 552.111 (staff advice, opinion, or recommendation).

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Date access is available for the microfilm.

Problems:
This a series of project and planning files, split into two series on the retention schedule, special project files (paper records); and plans and planning records (on microfilm).

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
Gas Services Division Annual Report, and Six MCF Gas Bill Analysis (published quarterly)

Internet pages based on records:
Six MCF Gas Bill Analysis, see http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/gs/rap/sixmcf/sixmcf0003.pdf.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Special project files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.105
Archival code: none
Retention: CE+1 (paper)

Title: Plans and planning records
Series item number: 1.1024
Agency item number: 5.106
Archival code: R
Retention: AC+10 (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
Gas Utilities Division Annual Report, 1921-1958, 1971-1972

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Gas Utilities Division Annual Report, 1908-1921, 1975, 1977-1981, 1985-1988
Gas Services Division Annual Report, 1989-1998

Gaps: No records present in this series prior to 1990.

Appraisal decision:
This series review describes one series of records that is split into two series on the retention schedule, under two different titles - Special project files and Plans and planning records. The paper records are considered the special project files, once microfilmed they become plans and planning records. These files are reports and statistics, both industry produced and RRC produced, concerning rate-related issues in the gas utility industry. Setting rates is a major function of this division. The files are used as part of the planning process of this division and as reference materials for this process. Some of the statistical data is reproduced in this division's annual report and in a quarterly gas bill analysis report. Otherwise, the reports and data present in the files are not available elsewhere in the agency.

These files do provide some documentation on the rate setting process by the Gas Services Division, but that is covered elsewhere as well: rules are in the Texas Administrative Code, the rate setting process in the series Litigation files (gas utilities dockets). Since other documentation of this process is available elsewhere and many of the reports in this series are reference materials, this series has been appraised as non-archival. I recommend the agency create one series for these records, titled Special project and planning records. It should carry the AC+10 retention code with a note in the Remarks section - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of one year after calendar year end. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." This series will not have an archival code.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Docket files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Contact: Maurice Curd

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: about 1 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
According to the retention schedule, the original paper record is retained for one year after closure of the case. At that point, exhibits and transcripts are segregated from the files, and everything else is microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy of the microfilmed materials is destroyed. Records have not been filmed since 1985. The microfilm of the docket files has a retention period of 100 years. Dates covered are 1930s-[ongoing]. Files comprise 28 cubic feet of paper records and 4 rolls of microfilm. Docket files with exceptions (series 6.004, 6.005, 6.006) are included in the size totals listed here.

The exhibits and transcripts are microfilmed separately, then the paper copy is destroyed. This set of microfilm has a retention period of 10 years. Dates of the exhibits and transcripts are the 1980s-[ongoing].

The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are docket files concerning liquefied petroleum gas cases. Dates covered are 1930s-[ongoing]. The files include applications, protests, case summaries, pleadings, orders, motions, violation notices, subpoenas, exhibits, transcripts, and final orders. Cases heard include safety code violations, requests for approval for particular installations, and administrative penalty cases, such as the agency filing against an operator who does not have the proper insurance. The hearings are conducted (or enforcement actions taken) by the Gas Utilities and LP-Gas Section of the Office of the General Counsel. An in-house database tracks LP-gas docket cases and records cases as granted, dismissed, or denied.

Applications for exceptions to safety code violations are in the series Docket files - exceptions (6.004, 6.005, 6.006).

The agency feels the need to keep the docket files for 100 years, or at least the life of the installation to document what was decided in the case.

Regulation of the liquefied petroleum industry by the Railroad Commission is governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 9 and Chapter 13. Chapter 9 concerns the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Division (now part of the Gas Services Division). Chapter 13 concerns compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas.

Purpose:
These dockets document legal and enforcement actions taken by the agency concerning liquefied petroleum gas cases.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerical by docket number, but separated by categories.

Access constraints: None according to staff.

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? An index to the microfilm was done, but it is currently misplaced.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Transcripts, Gas Utilities Division dockets - one destruction request was approved in September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1940-1941 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Docket files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.001
Archival code: none
Retention: AC+1 (paper)

Title: Docket files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.002
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Title: Docket files - transcripts/exhibits
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.003
Archival code: none
Retention: 10 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Gas Utilities Division Annual Report, 1908-1921, 1975, 1977-1981, 1985-1988
Gas Services Division Annual Report, 1989-1998

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These are litigation files of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas section of the Gas Services Division concerning LP-gas cases. There are three series on the current schedule: the original paper record is retained for one year after closure of the case. At that point, exhibits and transcripts are segregated from the files, and everything else is microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy of the microfilmed materials is destroyed. The agency may decide to consolidate into one series, as described in the series review. Because of the different retention period for the exhibits/transcripts - 10 years vs. 100 years for the dockets, two series should remain on the schedule. There are three other series of docket files - those concerning applications for exceptions. Agency staff feel the docket files with the final orders or dismissal orders need to have a 100 year retention period to document what was decided in these cases. These litigation files do not have the same type of environmental issues faced by the oil and gas cases, but do have some long-term value. The nature of the cases fall more along an administrative penalty venue as opposed to policy issues, that is, cases such as setting rates for consumers (gas services), or potential environmental problems (oil and gas). Therefore the 100 year retention period for the dockets is sufficient. These docket series have been appraised to be non-archival. I recommend two series be maintained on the schedule, one for docket files (100 year retention), one for transcripts/exhibits from the docket files (10 year retention). Add a note in the Remarks section of each series as follows: "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of one year after closure of the case. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Neither series will have an archival code.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Docket files - exceptions

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Contact: Maurice Curd

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
According to the retention schedule, the original paper record is retained by the agency for three years then microfilmed. After three years, Docket files - exceptions (6.004) are split into Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006) and Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005) and microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Records have not been microfilmed since 1985. Dates of the docket files - exceptions are 1980s-[ongoing]. All three docket exceptions series are housed with the first series of docket files (6.001 and 6.002) and are included in the overall size of the docket files - 28 cubic feet, 4 rolls of microfilm. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are docket files re: applications for exceptions to safety code rules concerning liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas). Dates covered are 1980s-[ongoing]. The files may include applications, protests, case summaries, pleadings, orders, motions, violation notices, subpoenas, exhibits, and transcripts. These are cases where operators or licensees apply to the Railroad Commission for an exception to a safety code, such as allowing compressed natural gas tanks to be stored on the top of buses, or requesting an exception to the required distance between storage tanks. The exception applies to the installation, which can be stationary, temporary, or mobile, such as a plant, or storage containers - tanks that can be transported. The files cover cases both approved and not approved.

For cases where a dismissal order was not issued, i.e., incomplete and dropped cases, see the series Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005). For cases where a dismissal order was issued, see the series Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006). For docket files of other LP-gas cases excluding exceptions, see the series Docket files (6.001, 6.002, 6.003).

Purpose:
These document action taken by the agency concerning applications for exceptions to safety code rules in liquefied petroleum gas cases.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerically by docket number.

Access constraints: None known

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? An index was done for the microfilm, it is currently misplaced.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Transcripts, Gas Utilities Division dockets - one destruction request was approved in September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1940-1941 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Docket files - exceptions
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.004
Archival code: none
Retention: 3 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These are docket files of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas section of the Gas Services Division concerning LP-gas cases where an operator applied for an exception to a safety code rule. There are two other series of exceptions - Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005) and Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006). After three years, docket files -exceptions are split into the above two series and microfilmed. Files without dismissal orders are incomplete or dropped cases and maintained two more years. Exceptions with dismissal orders are maintained 100 years on microfilm at the agency for legal reasons. The files with the dismissal orders have long-term administrative value; they need to be maintained at least as long as the installation for legal reasons. They do not have archival value as this data is not needed in the future to document such installations, especially since many are just storage containers for gas that can be transported. All of the docket series have been appraised to be non-archival. I suggest the agency consider maintaining two series of exceptions instead of three, exception files with dismissal orders and those without the orders, to cover paper and microfilm within each series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders)

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Contact: Maurice Curd

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
According to the retention schedule, the original paper record is retained by the agency for three years. After three years, Docket files - exceptions (6.004) are split into Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006) and Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005) and microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Records have not been microfilmed since 1985.

Dates for the docket files without dismissal orders are 1980s-[ongoing]. According to the retention schedule the microfilm is maintained for two years, but it also has a note in the remarks section, AC= Life of affected installation. This likely means the retention should be AC+2.

All three docket exceptions series are housed with the first series of docket files (6.001 and 6.002) and are included in the overall size of the docket files - 28 cubic feet, 4 rolls of microfilm. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Gas Services Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These records are docket files re: applications for exceptions to safety code rules concerning liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas). Dates covered are 1980s-[ongoing]. The files may include applications, protests, case summaries, pleadings, orders, motions, violation notices, subpoenas, exhibits, and transcripts. The files are cases where an operator or licensee applies to the Railroad Commission for an exception to a safety code rule, such as allowing compressed natural gas tanks to be stored on the top of buses, or requested a exception to the required distances between storage tanks. The exception applies to the installation that can be stationary, temporary, or mobile, such as a plant, or storage containers that can be transported. The dockets in this series concern incomplete cases, or those dropped, or possibly dismissed. In these files, a dismissal order was not issued by the Railroad Commission, generally because the case was incomplete or dropped.

For cases where a dismissal order was issued, see the series Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006). For the paper files of all docket files concerning exceptions, see the series Docket files - exceptions (6.004). For docket files of other LP-gas cases excluding exceptions see the series Docket files (6.001, 6.002, 6.003).

Purpose:
These document applications for exceptions to safety code rules in liquefied petroleum gas cases that are incomplete or were dropped.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerically by docket number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? An index was done for the microfilm, it is currently misplaced.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Transcripts, Gas Utilities Division dockets - one destruction request was approved in September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1940-1941 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders)
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.005
Archival code: none
Retention: 2 (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Files are not present prior to the 1980s.

Appraisal decision:
These are docket files of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas section of the Gas Services Division concerning LP-gas cases where operators applied for exceptions to safety code rules. There are two other series of exceptions - Docket files - exceptions (6.004) and Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders) (6.006). After three years, docket files - exceptions (6.004) are split into exceptions with dismissal orders (6.006) and exceptions without dismissal orders (6.005) and microfilmed. Files without dismissal orders are incomplete or dropped cases and only maintained two more years. Exceptions with dismissal orders are maintained 100 years on microfilm at the agency for legal reasons. The files with the dismissal orders have long-term administrative value, at least as long as the installation is in use for legal reasons. The files do not have archival value. There is no need to document installations, especially as many are transportable storage containers. All of the docket series have been appraised to be non-archival. I suggest the agency consider maintaining two series of exceptions instead of three, exception files with dismissal orders and those without the orders, including paper and microfilm within each series. I recommend the retention period be changed to AC+2.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders)

Agency: Railroad Commission
Gas Services Division - Liquefied Petroleum Gas

Contact: Maurice Curd

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Description:
These records are docket files re: applications for exceptions to safety code rules concerning liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas). The files may include applications, protests, case summaries, pleadings, orders, motions, violation notices, subpoenas, exhibits, transcripts, and dismissal orders. The files are cases where an operator or licensee applies to the Railroad Commission for an exception to a safety code rule, such as allowing compressed natural gas tanks to be stored on the top of buses, or requested a exception to the required distances between storage tanks. The exception applies to the installation that can be stationary, temporary, or mobile, such as a plant, or storage containers that can be transported. The files contain a legal order stating the case is dismissed. A dismissal order is similar to a final order in that it closes the case.

For cases where a dismissal order was not issued, i.e., incomplete and dropped cases, see the series Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005). For the paper files of all docket files concerning exceptions, see the series Docket files - exceptions (6.004). For docket files of other LP-gas cases excluding exceptions see the series Docket files (6.001, 6.002, 6.003).

The agency feels it needs to keep the docket files with dismissal orders for 100 years or at least the life of the installation to document what was decided.

Purpose:
These document action taken by the agency concerning applications for exceptions to safety code rules in liquefied petroleum gas cases that were dismissed.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Numerically by docket number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? An index was done for the microfilm, it is currently misplaced.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Transcripts, Gas Utilities Division dockets - one destruction request was approved in September 1990 to destroy paper records dating 1940-1941 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Docket files - exceptions (with dismissal orders)
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 6.006
Archival code: none
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These are docket files of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas section of the Gas Services Division concerning LP-gas cases where operators apply for exceptions to safety code rules. There are two other series of exceptions - Docket files - exceptions (without dismissal orders) (6.005) and Docket files - exceptions (6.004). After three years, docket files - exceptions (6.004) are split into exceptions with dismissal orders (6.006) and exceptions without dismissal orders (6.005) and microfilmed. The files with the dismissal orders have long-term administrative value, at least as long as the installation is in use for legal reasons. The files do not have archival value. There is no need to document installations, especially as many are transportable storage containers. All of the docket series have been appraised to be non-archival. I suggest the agency consider maintaining two series of exceptions instead of three, exception files with dismissal orders and those without the orders, including paper and microfilm within each series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Natural Gas Policy Act Files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1959-1960 and consist of eight cubic feet.

Description:
These are applications and correspondence re: certificates to sell natural gas, testimony, and dockets before the Federal Power Commission (FPC) re: natural gas rates and other cases. Dates covered are 1959-1960. Correspondents are the Railroad Commission, oil and gas companies, and the Federal Power Commission. These records are copies of documents send to the Railroad Commission by the FPC concerning natural gas issues covered under the Natural Gas Policy Act. The original files should be either at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or the National Archives if they were retained by the federal government.

Purpose:
These inform the Railroad Commission of natural gas issues covered under the Natural Gas Policy Act.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By application

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has (or had) the original paper records.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are in this series dating prior to 1959 or after 1960.

Appraisal decision:
These are records that were sent to the RRC by the Federal Power Commission. The files concern natural gas pricing and other natural gas issues and only cover two years. Why they were segregated from other files of this same sort is unknown. There is little historical value in these files and they are copies of federal documents. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Pipeline correspondence re: oil losses

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: It is unknown if the two series currently reporting pipeline leaks replace the series reviewed here.

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1960-1961 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are form letters sent to the Railroad Commission by oil companies or operators reporting leaks in pipelines, dating 1960-1961. The forms give the size and name of the discharge line or pump, location of leak, time of leak, number of barrels lost, and cause of the leak. In some cases, a letter was sent in lieu of the form, reporting the same information.

Purpose:
Operators used these forms to report leaks in pipelines and oil losses associated with the leak.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by company, then in reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is an obsolete series. There are two series currently on the schedule containing reports of leaks.
Title: Pipeline related: Accident files reports and associated documentation
Series item number: 5.4
Agency item number: 5.061
Archival code: none
Retention: FE+10

Title: Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 5.071
Archival code: none
Retention: 5 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records present prior to 1960 or after 1961.

Appraisal decision:
This box is part of a group of old records housed in the Central Records Section of the Oil and Gas Division of the Railroad Commission that were undoubtedly parts of larger groups of records, separated over time. These files report oil leaks during a two year period. Similar records can be found in two series currently on the schedule, Pipeline related: Accident file reports and associated documentation and Special investigation files - hazardous liquids and natural gas pipelines. Staff in the Gas Services Division gave these two series of accident reports short (5-10 years) retention periods as sufficient. Both of those series have been appraised as non-archival. This series of pipeline correspondence being reviewed is not archival as well and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Pipeline tariff reports

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1935 and comprise about 0.33 cubic feet of oversize reports.

Description:
These are pipeline tariff reports used as an exhibit in a hearing, dated ca. 1935. There are two reports, presumably prepared by the Railroad Commission. Oil pipeline tariff studies has various statistical compilations, such as average cost of transporting oil for entire operations for a year, gives the pipeline companies, investments, expenses and depreciation, cost per barrel, etc. Crude price by gravities gives the gravity, section of state involved, and the specific company tariffs (provides rates and miles).

Purpose:
The reports were used as an exhibit in a hearing.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By report

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Reports are only present for ca. 1935.

Appraisal decision:
These are pipeline tariff reports used as an exhibit in a hearing. Nothing is known about the hearing nor why these reports were separated from the hearing files, likely the series Gas utilities dockets/transcripts exhibits. They must be appraised as single items. They give some statistical data about pipeline tariffs for a brief period. There is no administrative value to the agency, and little historical value, especially since the topic and time coverage are so narrow. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Interstate Commerce Commission report

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Gas Services Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: unknown

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated 1952-1954 and comprise 1 cubic feet of oversize materials.

Description:
This is a report to the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) (ICC form BU-588) on property changes of the Pan American Pipeline Company and other companies, dating 1952-1954. Data in the report for each company includes the owner, valuation section, list of property, equipment - number of units, cost of property added, number of units added, and property retired - cost and number of units.

Purpose:
This report records property changes within pipeline companies to the Interstate Commerce Commission. It was possibly used as an exhibit in a hearing. The box was filed with other boxes of pipeline hearings records dated 1957, but there is no indication in the records to confirm the report was used at a hearing.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: N/A

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Copy of the report should be at the Interstate Commerce Commission or National Archives if it was retained by the federal government.

Publications based on records:
This is a publication.

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Report only covers the years 1952-1954.

Appraisal decision:
This is a report on property changes of pipeline companies prepared for the Interstate Commerce Commission. It does not have administrative value to the Railroad Commission. Property changes are recorded in deed records in the county clerk's office. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Executive orders

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained for five years after superseded according to the retention schedule. However, staff have determined that the executive orders remain valuable after five years and maintain orders dating 1980-[ongoing]. Files comprise less than one cubic foot and are housed in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are executive orders (signed Commission orders) which adopt rules or rule changes to Title 16 of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 11 (relating to uranium mining and the quarry and pit safety program) and Chapter 12 (relating to coal mining). Dates covered are 1980-[ongoing].

Purpose:
These orders set the rules and regulations the Commission uses to regulate the Quarry and Pit Safety Program, the Uranium Mining Program, and the Coal Mining Program in Texas.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

The Texas Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975, Senate Bill 55, 64th Legislature, Regular Session, authorized the Commission to regulate the exploration for and surface mining of coal, lignite, and uranium within the state and to oversee the reclamation of lands disturbed by surface mining operations. In 1991, the 72nd Legislature, Regular Session, passed House Bill 451, the Texas Aggregate Quarry and Pit Safety Act, that authorized the Commission to regulate quarry and pit operations.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Surface Mining and Reclamation Division oversees the exploration of and surface mining for coal, uranium, and iron ore gravel and the reclamation of land disturbed by surface mining operations. It also conducts a program for reclaiming lands that were mined before 1975 and left unrestored. Companies must have a permit from the commission for each mining site operated in the state. Before permits are issued, the companies must submit a performance bond that will provide funds for reclamation if the company fails to do an adequate reclamation job. The division also studies mining sites to ensure the mining will not harm the quality or quantity of water in the area. It determines which abandoned mines pose the greatest threat to public health and safety and the environment, and designs a reclamation plan to address the greatest problems. Private contractors are used to do the reclamation.

Arrangement: Chronological

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Yes. Correspondence tracking system on mainframe and a list of all rules changes are available.

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule two divisions have executive orders and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies:
Yes, U.S. Dept. of Interior, Office of Surface Mining, Administrative Record System for Texas.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Executive orders
Series item number: 1.1.011
Agency item number: A.011
Archival code: A
Retention: US+5+AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No orders present prior to 1980.

Appraisal decision:
Executive orders are an archival record. These orders document rules changes and regulations adopted by the RRC for the operation of the coal, uranium, and quarry and pit programs. The administrative offices and commissioners offices do not maintain the orders as a separate series. Memos pertaining to orders are part of the administrative correspondence files that have been appraised to be archival. However, it is unknown how far back these offices have retained such memos or if all were maintained. Therefore, the executive orders in this series have been appraised to be archival. Change the retention period to US+5. Transfer files that have fulfilled their retention period to the Archives and Information Services Division now, then yearly thereafter. This series needs to be added to the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division's section of the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Administrative correspondence

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: less than one cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency for three years and then reviewed for continuing value. The SMRD has kept most of the correspondence in-house for future reference. Current holdings are 1978-[ongoing], comprising 4 cu. feet The files are maintained in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Any confidential information within the files is separated and kept in the office of the division director.

Description:
This series contains memoranda and incoming/outgoing letters relating to the development and administration of agency policies, procedures, program, and other major transactions dating from 1978 to [ongoing]. The division director's files contain copies of Commission office correspondence related to the division. Correspondents include Commissioners, staff, and the U.S. Office of Surface Mining.

According to staff, drafts and correspondence about the budget items, programs, etc. in a pre-planning stage, and personnel matters are confidential under the Texas Government Code, Section 552.111.

Purpose:
The administrative correspondence is created and maintained in the course of managing division functions by the division director.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by subject.

Access constraints:
Some documents, including drafts, preliminary correspondence about budget, and personnel matters are confidential under the Texas Government Code, Section 552.111.

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Correspondence tracking system and a list of files by subject is available.

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule five divisions/offices have administrative correspondence and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Correspondence, administrative
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: A.007
Archival code: R
Retention: CE+3

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
This correspondence has administrative value in that it documents policies and programs of the SMRD. It also has evidential value as it records interaction of the SMRD with the Commissioners and the U.S. Office of Surface Mining. Some documentation of the activities of the division is in agency publications, including annual financial reports, legislation appropriation requests, and strategic plans. However, the information in those publications is limited to overviews of the division and do not cover its interactions as described above. This series has been appraised to be archival. This series needs to be added the retention schedule under the SMRD's section of the schedule with an archival code of A. As the correspondence fulfills its retention period it needs to be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division. Prior to transfer, confidential materials still with the series need to be reviewed and confidentiality waived. Files dating 1978-1996 should be transferred to the Archives at the agency's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Publication development files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency as long as administratively valuable. Current holdings are 1995-[ongoing], comprising about 0.5 cubic feet. Files are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
This series contains original copies of the current Aggregate Quarry & Pit Safety Act and Rules and Regulations, Texas Surface Coal Mining and Reclamation Act, Texas Uranium Surface Mining Reclamation Act, Coal Mining Regulations, Uranium Mining Regulations, and Texas Coal Operations Map. Dates covered are 1995-[ongoing].

Purpose:
These are originals of the Division's rules and regulations used to print more copies for the public's use.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule two divisions have publication development files and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
Texas Aggregate Quarry and Pits Safety Act and rules and regulations, Railroad Commission, 1992

Coal Mining Regulations, Railroad Commission, 1986, 1994, 1996.

Texas Uranium Surface Mining and Reclamation Act, Railroad Commission of Texas, 1979, 1993

Internet pages based on records:
Access to the rules and regulations governing coal, uranium, iron ore and quarry and pit regulation is: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/sm/programs/regprgms/cluio.htm.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Publication development files
Series item number: 1.3.002
Agency item number: A.026
Archival code: R
Retention: AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Texas Aggregate Quarry and Pits Safety Act and rules and regulations, Railroad Commission, 1992

Coal Mining Regulations, Railroad Commission, 1986, 1994, 1996.

Texas Uranium Surface Mining and Reclamation Act, Railroad Commission of Texas, 1979, 1993

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These publication development files consist of original copies of rules and regulations prepared/published by the SMRD for the public. The original copies are used to print additional copies for the public. This is not an archival record - it does not contain any original photos or artwork or other items associated with publication development files. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Change the archival code to E and add the following note to the Remarks column of the schedule: "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division, Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Reports and studies (non-fiscal)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency for three years. Current holdings are 1997-1999, comprising about 0.3 cubic feet. Files are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
This series contains technical reports or guidance documents prepared for the mining industry. Dates covered are 1997-1999. Accompanying the reports are drafts, memos, comment letters, and any other documentation necessary to write the reports. Examples of the reports from 1999 are: Normal Husbandry Practices for Surface-Mined Lands in Texas, Procedures and Standards for Determining Revegetation Success on Surface-Mined Lands in Texas.

Purpose:
These reports are guidelines used by the coal mining industry in reclaiming mined or disturbed land.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule two divisions have reports and studies and each is described and appraised separately in this report.

Known related records in other agencies:
Yes. Other state and federal agencies had input in writing these reports and were sent copies of the final reports. The agencies involved were: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service; Texas A&M University; U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining; and the mining industry in Texas.

Publications based on records:
The agency does not consider these reports to be publications, but rather technical reports or guidance documents.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Reports and studies (non-fiscal)
Series item number: 1.1.067
Agency item number: A.029
Archival code: R
Retention: 3

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No reports are present prior to 1997.

Appraisal decision:
These are technical reports prepared by the SMRD for the coal mining industry for use in reclaiming mined or disturbed land. Reports about other programs are not present, but could be done at a future date. The reports are valuable resources providing blueprints for the industry to follow when reclaiming mined or disturbed land. The reports are not published or deposited in the Publications Depository. Copies of the reports need to be maintained as they have long-term value in documenting how the industry is expected to properly reclaim disturbed lands. This series has been appraised to be archival. Copies of the reports are sufficient documentation, the Archives does not need the memos, drafts, or other documentation used to prepare the reports. Add this series to the retention schedule in the section containing records of this division. Change the archival code to A. Transfer copies of all reports in the series to the Archives and Information Services Division. Because the reports produced thus far in this series appear to concern policies and procedures the agency has developed for industry, the series could be reclassified as 1.1.025. The agency should reevaluate the classification and determine which is the best series item designation for this series.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Plans and planning records

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 0.3 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency 3 years after a decision is made to implement or not to implement the proposed plan as a result of the planning process or until the records are no longer valuable to the Commission. Current holdings are 1997-[ongoing] and comprise about two cubic feet. Files are maintained in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are program development files of the division including quarry and pit program planning files, iron ore regulatory program planning files, uranium regulatory program planning files, coal mining regulatory program planning files, Texas Mining and Reclamation Association Task Force files, personal computer planning files, and computer enhanced permitting planning files. Dates covered are 1997-[ongoing].

Purpose:
These files record the development and organization of different programs that are the responsibility of the SMRD or programs that SMRD is involved in.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement:
Files are arranged by project or subject, then in reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? Correspondence tracking system on personal computer and a list of file folders for each project or subject.

Problems:
This is an agency-wide series. On the retention schedule three divisions have plans and planning records and each is described and appraised separately in this report. Two divisions have it listed separately on the schedule under the records of its division (including SMRD), one division uses the agency-wide series listing.

Known related records in other agencies:
U.S. Department of Interior, Office of Surface Mining, has some of the coal-related files. The Texas Mining and Reclamation Association (TMRA) has a copy of the TMRA task force files.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Plans and planning records
Series item number: 1.1.024
Agency item number: 7.009
Archival code: R
Retention: AC+3

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These records document the planning and development of the programs operated by the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division - coal mining, uranium mining, iron ore regulation, and the quarry and pit program. There are also records on the development of the Texas Mining and Reclamation Association Task Force. These programs operate under the rules of the RRC as provided in the Texas Administrative Code. The TAC therefore provides some documentation on the programs. Program activities/functions are also reported briefly in the Sunset Commission reports (1984, 2000), Legislative Appropriation Requests, and Strategic Plans. These planning records had administrative value to the agency in documenting how the programs started and their organization. The program files in several related series (Coal mining permit files, Uranium mining permit files, and the Abandoned mine lands files) were appraised as archival, further documenting the functioning of these programs. The Task Force program development files are also present at the Texas Mining and Reclamation Association offices. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Change the archival code to E and add the following note to the Remarks column of the schedule: "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division, Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Abandoned mine lands files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 0.5 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained until project completion, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. The microfilm has a retention period of 10 years, but no film has yet been discarded. Dates covered are 1970s-[ongoing]. Paper records comprise 10 cubic feet, microfilm 0.34 cubic feet. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are construction records, bidding records, and post reclamation environmental studies concerning reclamation work at abandoned mines. Dates covered are the 1970s-[ongoing]. The state is responsible for cleaning up abandoned mine sites. The files cover contracting - bids, contracts, construction reports/files, payments - and environmental studies undertaken after the reclamation work is completed. The studies report whether the land is properly reclaimed. Series concerning reclamation work by mine operators are Coal mining permit files (7.007, 7.008) and Uranium mining permit files (7.034, 7.035). An inventory of abandoned mines sites in the state is the series Abandoned mines lands, South, East, West Texas inventory (7.047, 7.048).

The Division's Abandoned Mine Land (AML) Program implements Title IV of the federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). It is the intent of the AML program to reclaim and restore land and water resources and to protect the public from the adverse effects of pre-law (August 3, 1977) mining practices. This program is fully funded by the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) through a production tax levied on active coal mining operations in Texas. Regulation of the abandoned mine land program by the Railroad Commission is through 16 TAC, §12.8. Reclamation of uranium mines is further regulated by 16 TAC §11.151-11.154.

Purpose:
These records document reclamation activities undertaken by the Railroad Commission on abandoned mine lands, as mandated under Title IV of the federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 and the administrative code of Texas, 16 TAC, §12.8, and §11.151-154.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Filed topically by name of the mine.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Wallace abandoned mine land project - one destruction request was approved in March 1687 to destroy paper records dating, 1980 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Abandoned mine lands files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.003
Archival code: none
Retention: AC (paper)

Title: Abandoned mine lands files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.004
Archival code: R
Retention: 10 years

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
Reclamation of mine lands has been an environmental issue for several years and will likely continue to be. These files have a substantial amount of environmental data about mines after they were closed and reclamation work was completed. This is a long-term environmental issue that needs permanent documentation. This series has been appraised to be archival. Change the archival code from R to A. I recommend the agency list these series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section - "Original paper record retained until project completion. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer the paper files through 1989 to the Archives and Information Services Division now as they have met their retention period. Transfers in the future can be yearly as the files fulfill their retention period.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Abandoned mine lands planning files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained as long as administratively valuable. Dates are 1980-[ongoing]. Files comprise 0.2 cubic feet and are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are correspondence, memoranda, and other administrative files concerning the establishment and continuing operation of the abandoned mine lands program at the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are 1980-[ongoing].

Purpose:
These document planning for the establishment and continuing operation of the abandoned mine lands program at the Railroad Commission. This program is regulated by Title IV of the federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 and the administrative code of Texas, 16 TAC, §12.8.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Chronological

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Abandoned mine lands planning files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.005
Archival code: none
Retention: AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These are planning records that document the establishment and operation of the abandoned mine lands program; mostly concerning the establishment of the program. This program centers around the reclamation of mine lands. The operation of the abandoned lands program is administered through the Texas Administrative Code. The TAC provides some documentation on the operational mandates of the program. Program activities are also briefly discussed in the Sunset Commission reports (1984, 2000), Legislative Appropriation Requests, and Strategic Plans. While the planning records have administrative value to the agency in documenting how the programs started and their organization, they do not have long-term or archival value, since the program files - Abandoned mine land files - have been appraised to be archival. The abandoned mines planning records have been appraised to be non-archival. Since this series does not carry an archival code no changes need to be made to the retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Coal mining permit applications, issued

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 4-6 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained until the mine is reclaimed and released, then the files are microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed, according to the retention schedule. However, few files have been destroyed. Dates covered are ca. 1975-[ongoing]. Paper records comprise 180 cubic feet. One permit application can consist of 20, 3-inch, 3-ring binders that take up two to three shelves or four to six cubic feet. There is 0.08 cubic feet of microfiche. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfiche master is maintained at the State Records Center. Microfiche has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These are coal mining permit applications, attachments, and permits. Dates covered are ca. 1975-[ongoing]. Data present in each file includes the operator's name and address, its mining plan (when it plans to begin mining, how much it intends to mine, etc.), names of land owners, maps or plats of the areas to be mined, and environmental data, including information on land use, soils, geology, vegetation, fish and wildlife, water quantity and quality, air quality, and archeological, cultural, and historic features. Permits are issued every five years for coal mining. All materials are kept from the initial application because only changes are resubmitted in subsequent applications. Supplemental materials on mining operations, violations, and reclamation work done at the end of mining activities are in the series Coal mining permit files (7.007, 7.008). Incomplete permit applications are in the series Coal mining permit applications, dismissed (7.006.2, 7.006.3). Petitions filed to prevent operators from being issued permits, including applications for permits denied by the RRC, are in the series Lands unsuitable petitions (7.016, 7.017). Duplicate copies of the application files are in the district offices.

The process for issuing coal mining permits is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 12.

The agency is keeping the application files for 100 years because of potential pollution problems resulting from mining operations. Additionally, it states these files have a high public interest.

Purpose:
These record coal mining permits issued in accordance with 16 TAC, Chapter 12.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetically by mine then by permit number, with all the current permit applications in one area.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes, the earlier files, 1977 to 1987, have an index listing each document in a file by chronological order. All documents received after 1987 are filed by subject. Each document is entered on the Surface Mining correspondence tracking system. They are listed by permit number and can be searched by date written, date received, subject, author of cover letter, or addressee. In addition, there is a subject index for each permit for each mine listing the permit application, date, volumes, supplements.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Permit applications - several destruction requests were submitted between August 1986 and November 1989 to destroy paper records dating 1975-1982, 1984 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Internet pages based on records:
The status of coal mining permits issued by the RRC is available, see: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/sm/programs/regprgms/projects/smprj.html.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Coal mining permit applications, issued
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.006
Archival code: none
Retention: AC (paper)

Title: Coal mining permit applications, issued
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.006.1
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. Although the agency has destroyed some paper files (see above), microfilmed files are maintained by the agency.

Appraisal decision:
Coal mining creates environmental damage, and, according to the agency generates a great deal of public interest. This is a long-term environmental issue that needs permanent documentation. The coal mining application files have a substantial amount of environmental data about sites before coal mining was begun. This data needs to be retained and correlated with the environmental studies found in the series Coal mining permit files (7.007, 7.008), which covers reclamation work done after the mine is closed.

The coal mining permit applications have been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is retained until the mine is reclaimed and released. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer files when they have fulfilled their retention period to the Archives and Information Services Division. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Coal mining permit files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 16 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record retained for five years, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed according to the retention schedule. However, only a few files have been destroyed. Dates covered are 1977-[ongoing]. Files comprise 349 cubic feet of paper records, two cubic feet of microfiche, and 5 rolls of microfilm. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center. Microfilm has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These files contain correspondence with coal mining companies, reviews of permits before and after approval, design plans, inspection reports, complaints, hearing records, bonds, water testing reports, and environmental studies after reclamation work is completed. Dates covered are 1977-[ongoing]. These coal mining permit maintenance files contain all the records concerning the permit and mining operations except the permit application packet. Any complaints or violations against the operator are in these files. Reclamation work at the site by the operator after the site is closed is also documented in these files. Permit applications are in the series Coal mining permit applications, issued (7.006, 7.006.1). Duplicate copies of the permit maintenance files are maintained in the district offices. Reclamation work done on abandoned coal mines is documented in the series Abandoned mine land files (7.003, 7.004).

Coal mining operations are regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 12.

The agency is keeping the permit files for 100 years because of potential pollution problems resulting from mining operations. Additionally, it states the files have a high public interest.

Purpose:
These document coal mining operations and reclamation work done after coal mines are closed. Coal mining operations are governed by 16 TAC, Chapter 12.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement:
The earlier files, 1977 to 1987, are grouped by mine, then permit number, and then in chronological order. 1987 to present are grouped by mine, then permit number, and then by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes, the earlier files, 1977 to 1987, have an index listing each document in a file by chronological order. The files created after 1987 are filed by subject. Information from each document is entered on the Surface Mining correspondence tracking system. Each document received or written is listed by permit number and can be searched by date written, date received, subject, author of cover letter, or addressee. In addition, there is a subject index for each permit number listing each subject file folder. There is a list of mines listing all the permit numbers related to that mine. There is also a list of subject codes.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Coal permit files - one destruction request was approved in March 1687 to destroy paper records dating 1980 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Coal mining permit files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.007
Archival code: none
Retention: 5 years (paper)

Title: Coal mining permit files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.008
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. Although the agency has destroyed some paper files (see above), microfilmed files are maintained by the agency.

Appraisal decision:
Coal mining creates environmental damage, and, according to the agency, generates a great deal of public interest. This long-term environmental issue needs permanent documentation. The coal mining permit files have a substantial amount of environmental data about the coal mines after they were closed and reclamation work was completed. This data needs to be retained and correlated with the environmental studies found in the series Coal mining permit applications, issued (7.006, 7.006.1), which contains environmental studies of mining sites before any mining was begun. This series also has some legal value as it documents hearings regarding violations or complaints involving coal mining operations.

The coal mining permit files have been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 5 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer files when they have fulfilled their retention period to the Archives and Information Services Division. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence, administrative (court cases)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency for three years then reviewed to see if needed for reference by the Commission. At some point the agency intends to microfilm these files, destroying the paper copy after filming. Dates covered are 1997-[ongoing]. Current holdings are fractional and are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These files consist of correspondence from the federal Office of Surface Mining (OSM) about court cases in other states that may affect the SMRD. Dates covered are 1997-[ongoing]. Court orders are sometimes sent with the correspondence.

Purpose:
Correspondence is sent by the OSM to inform the SMRD about the mining industry in other states, or court rulings that may affect SMRD regulations in the future.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by project or subject, then in reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes. There is a correspondence tracking system on a personal computer that lists file folders for each project or subject.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
U.S. Office of Surface Mining.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Correspondence - administrative (court cases)
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: 7.010
Archival code: R
Retention: 3 (paper)

Title: Correspondence - administrative (court cases)
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: 7.011
Archival code: R
Retention: 10 (microfiche)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
The correspondence files serve SMRD administratively as reference materials informing it about the mining industry in other states or about recent court rulings. Reference materials such as these do not have archival value. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Replace the archival code of R with an E and add the following note to the Remarks column for this series - "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

Since the agency intends to microfilm these records in the future, I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 3 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Lands unsuitable petitions

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: sporadic as records are not created annually

Agency holdings:
According to the retention schedule the original record copy is retained until litigation is ended, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Records in this series have not yet been filmed. Dates covered are early 1980s, 1999. There were no files created between 1984 and 1998. Current holdings are 6 cubic feet; a pending application filed in November 1999 will take up approximately four cubic feet.

Description:
These are petition files concerning proposed coal mining operations. Dates covered are the early 1980s, 1999. Types of materials present include petitions, public notices, comment letters, environmental studies of the region, hearing files, and copies of the orders by the commissioners approving or denying the company's request to begin mining operations. Information in the petition includes the petitioner's name and address; a list of those with ownership interest in the petitioned area; a description of the land affected; a topographic map outlining the location of the land; a description of how mining of the area has affected or may adversely affect people, land, air, water, or other resources, including the petitioner's interests; and allegations of fact and supporting evidence that the land is unsuitable for coal mining. If a petition opposing a mining operation is denied and the mining is approved by the RRC, some of this data will be duplicated in the permit application files, see the series Coal mining permit applications, issued (7.006, 7.006.1). Some of the studies present in the petition files were done by consultants as exhibits for hearings. The original copies of the orders by the RRC approving or denying mining requests are kept in the Office of the Legal Counsel of the RRC. The process of approving/denying petitions is neither summarized in the annual report nor reported elsewhere.

The process for petitioning lands as unsuitable for coal mining is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 12, Subchapter F. After a petition is submitted, the RRC holds a public hearing unless all petitioners and intervenors agree a public hearing is not needed. Following the hearing or RRC review, the commission submits an order stating whether or not the mining operation is approved.

The agency has a twenty-five year retention period for these petition files, but may keep them longer. Staff said these files receive a great amount of public use.

Purpose:
These record the petitioning process whereby individuals can request land be declared unsuitable for coal mining, as allowed under 16 TAC, Chapter 12, Subchapter F.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement:
Correspondence arranged in chronological order, exhibits to hearings filed with hearing documents. The pending petitions are grouped by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes, The petition files received prior to 1987 have an index listing each document by date received. The files created after 1987 are filed by subject. Each document is entered on the Surface Mining correspondence tracking system. Each document received or written is listed by petition number and can be searched by date written, date received, subject, author of cover letter, or addressee. In addition, there is a subject index for the petition listing each subject file folder. There is a list of petitions containing the petition numbers with a brief description of each.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Lands unsuitable petitions
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.016
Archival code: none
Retention: AC (paper)

Title: Lands unsuitable petitions
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.017
Archival code: none
Retention: 25 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. The agency has not disposed of any records in this series.

Appraisal decision:
The petitioning process is an important element in the commission's decision as to whether or not to authorize coal mining operations. The Commission cross examines witnesses, considers public comments, and reviews environmental studies and other exhibits as part of its determination in allowing/not allowing a mining operation to take place. While some information will be present in application files for those permits approved, not all materials are duplicated there. The petition files do relate to the coal mining permit application files and are a record of opposition to coal mining operations. Also, the process of approving/denying petitions is neither summarized in the annual report nor reported elsewhere.

This series has been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. At some time the agency intends to microfilm these records. The two series should be listed as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is retained until litigation is ended. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." None of the records in the series have fulfilled their retention period so no transfers are expected at this time. When the retention period is met, transfer files to the Archives and Information Services Division. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Correspondence - administrative (SMRD rules files)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 0.3 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
The files in this series review are listed as parts of two series of paper records on the schedule - Correspondence - administrative (SMRD rules files) and SMRD rules and regulations. They will be combined into one series on the schedule during the next recertification. According to the retention schedule, the original paper record is retained for 5 years then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Very few files have been microfilmed because the files are still considered active and are used frequently. Dates covered are 1975-[ongoing]. Files comprise 5 cubic feet of paper records, fractional cubic feet for the microfiche. Microfiche master is maintained at the State Records Center. Duplicate fiche and paper records are maintained in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfiche has a retention period of 8 years.

Description:
These are rule development files consisting of correspondence, review comments, notices in the Texas Register, orders, program amendments, comments of the U.S. Office of Surface Mining, and Federal Register notices. Dates covered are 1975-[ongoing].

Purpose:
The files record state and federal rule changes in areas under Surface Mining and Reclamation's jurisdiction.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Comments of the OSM also at the U.S. Office of Surface Mining.

Publications based on records:
Comments on rules published in the Texas Register and the Federal Register.

Internet pages based on records:
Adopted rules and regulations re: mining operations can be accessed through the RRC web site, see http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/divisions/sm/programs/regprgms/cluio.htm.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Correspondence - SMRD rules files
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: 7.018
Archival code: R
Retention: 5 (paper)

Title: Correspondence - SMRD rules files
Series item number: 1.1.007
Agency item number: 7.019
Archival code: R
Retention: 8 (microfilm)

Title: SMRD rules and regulations
Series item number: 1.1.025
Agency item number: 7.023
Archival code: R
Retention: US+3+AV (paper)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
It holds the Texas Register and the Federal Register.

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
This series documents comments made to rules, both state and federal, that affect the mining programs under the jurisdiction of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division. Comments to state rules are published in the Texas Register. Comments to federal rules are published in the Federal Register. Rules adopted by the Railroad Commission become part of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 16. This is sufficient coverage for rule development.

This series has been appraised to be non-archival. These series should be listed as one on the retention schedule, to cover both paper and microfilm records. For the new series, replace the archival code of R with an E and add the following note to the Remarks column for this series - "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001." Also add this note to the Remarks section - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 5 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed."

According to agency staff series 7.018 is the same as series 7.023 and they will be combined into one series during the next certification as described above.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Interim SMRD rules

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replace by: none, interim rules are no longer in force

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained by the agency as long as administratively valuable. Dates covered are 1975-1979. Files comprise two cubic feet and are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are the interim coal rules the SMRD operated under until the present coal rules and regulations were approved in 1980. The files contain development files, comments from other state agencies, research material, and the interim rules. Dates covered are 1975-1979.

Purpose:
The files record the development of rules for the regulation of coal mining in Texas.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
Comments on rules published in the Texas Register.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Interim SMRD rules
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.026
Archival code: R
Retention: AV

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Texas Register

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
This series documents interim rules the SMRD operated the coal mining program under until the present rules and regulations were adopted. Comments to state rules are published in the Texas Register. Rules adopted by the Railroad Commission become part of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 16. This is sufficient coverage for rule development. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. Remove the archival code of R.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Mining statistics reports (annual)

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained by the agency for a minimum of three years then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed. Because of the small amount of material in this series microfilming is not done on a yearly basis. Dates covered are 1980-[ongoing]. Paper files and microfiche comprise fractional cubic feet. Microfiche master is maintained at the State Records Center. Duplicate fiche and paper records are maintained in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
This is a one page spreadsheet containing the yearly summary of coal and uranium production, the number of acres of land disturbed, and the amount of annual fees paid by each mine in Texas. Also in the series is correspondence relating to these reports. Dates covered are 1980-[ongoing].

Purpose:
These files record coal and uranium production in Texas.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Reverse chronological order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None, this data is not published.

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Mining Statistics Reports (annual)
Series item number: 1.1.067
Agency item number: 7.027
Archival code: R
Retention: 3 (paper)

Title: Mining Statistics Reports (annual)
Series item number: 1.1.067
Agency item number: 7.028
Archival code: R
Retention: 13 (microfiche)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These reports provide a summary of all coal and uranium production in Texas since the reports began in 1980. This information does have historical value as it documents the production and the number of acres disturbed in mining operations and should be retained permanently. This information does not appear in RRC publications. This series has been appraised to be archival. These two series should be listed as one on the retention schedule, to cover both paper and microfilm records. Change the archival code to A. Add this note to the Remarks section - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 3 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer files through 1984 as they have fulfilled their retention period (3+13 years) to the Archives and Information Services Division. Future transfers can be made on a yearly basis as the retention period is fulfilled. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Uranium mining permit applications

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained until the mine is reclaimed and released, then the files are microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed, according to the retention schedule. According to the agency no records have been destroyed. Dates covered are ca. 1975-[ongoing]. Files comprise 1 cubic feet of paper records and 6 microfiche. Microfiche master is maintained at the State Records Center. Duplicate fiche and paper records are maintained in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfiche has a retention period of 100 years.

Description:
These are uranium mining permit applications, attachments, and permits. Dates covered are ca. 1975-[ongoing]. Data present in each application includes the operator's name and address, its mining plan (when it plans to begin mining, how much it intends to mine, etc.), names of land owners, maps or plats of the areas to be mined, and environmental data, including information on land uses, soils, geology, vegetation, fish and wildlife, water quantity and quality, air quality, and archeological, cultural, and historic features. Uranium mining permits are valid for up to ten years. All materials are kept from the initial application because only changes are resubmitted in subsequent applications. Supplemental materials on mining operations, violations, and reclamation work at the end of mining activities are in the series Uranium mining permit files (7.034, 7.035). Duplicate copies of the application files are in the field offices.

The process of issuing uranium mining permits is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter C.

The agency is keeping the application files for 100 years because of potential pollution problems resulting from mining operations. Additionally, it states these files have a high public interest.

Purpose:
These record uranium mining permits issued by the Railroad Commission in accordance with 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter C.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement:
Alphabetically by mine, then by permit number with all the current uranium permit applications in one area.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Permit applications - several destruction requests were submitted between August 1986 and November 1989 to destroy paper records dating 1975-1982, 1984 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Uranium mining permit applications
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.033
Archival code: R
Retention: AC (paper)

Title: Uranium mining permit applications
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.033.1
Archival code: R
Retention: 100 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. The agency has not disposed of any records.

Appraisal decision:
Uranium mining creates environmental damage, and, according to the agency generates a great deal of public interest. This long-term environmental issue needs permanent documentation. The application files have a substantial amount of environmental data about sites before uranium mining was begun. This data needs to be retained and correlated with the environmental studies found in the series Uranium mining permit files (7.034, 7.035), which covers reclamation work done after the mine is closed.

The uranium mining permit applications have been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is retained until the mine is reclaimed and released. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer files when they have fulfilled their retention period to the Archives and Information Services Division. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Uranium mining permit files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is retained for three years, then microfilmed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed, according to the retention schedule. According to agency staff no records have been destroyed. Dates covered are 1970s-[ongoing], comprising 2.5 cubic feet of paper records and 0.08 cubic feet of microfiche. Microfiche master is maintained at the State Records Center. Duplicate fiche and paper records are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfiche has a retention period of 103 years.

Description:
These files contain correspondence with uranium mining companies, reviews of permits before and after approval, design plans, inspection reports, complaints, hearing records, bonds, water testing reports, and environmental studies done after reclamation work is completed. Dates covered are 1970s-[ongoing]. These uranium mining permit maintenance files contain all the records concerning the permit and mining operations except the permit application packet. Any complaints or violations against the operator are in these files. Reclamation work at the site by the operator after the site is closed is also documented in these files. Permit applications are in the series Uranium mining permit applications (7.033, 7.033.1). Duplicate copies of the permit maintenance files are maintained in field offices. Reclamation work on abandoned mines is in the series Abandoned mine land files (7.003, 7.004).

Uranium mining operations are regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter C.

The agency is keeping the permit files for 103 years because of potential pollution problems resulting from mining operations. Additionally, it states these files have a high public interest.

Purpose:
These document uranium mining operations and reclamation work done after uranium mines are closed. Uranium mining operations are regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter C.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement:
The earlier files, 1977 to 1987, are filed in chronological order. 1987 to present are filed by mine, permit number and then by subject.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes, the earlier files, 1977 to 1987, have an index listing each document in a file by chronological order. The files created after 1987 are filed by subject. Information from each document is entered on the Surface Mining correspondence tracking system. Each document received or written is listed by permit number and can be searched by date written, date received, subject, author of cover letter, or addressee. In addition, there is a subject index for each permit number listing each subject file folder. There is a list of mines containing all the permit numbers related to that mine. There is also a list of subject codes.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Previous destructions:
Uranium permit files - two destruction requests were submitted in March 1687 and November 1989 to destroy paper records dating 1980, 1982-1984 after microfilming.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Uranium mining permit files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.034
Archival code: R
Retention: 3 (paper)

Title: Uranium mining permit files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.035
Archival code: R
Retention: 103 years (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None. The agency has not disposed of any records in this series.

Appraisal decision:
Uranium mining creates environmental damage, and, according to the agency generates a great deal of public interest. This long-term environmental issue needs permanent documentation. The uranium mining permit files have a substantial amount of environmental data about the uranium mines after they were closed and reclamation work was completed. This data needs to be retained and correlated with the environmental studies found in the series Uranium mining permit applications (7.033, 7.033.1), which contains environmental studies of mining sites before any mining was begun. This series also has legal value as it documents hearings regarding violations or complaints involving uranium mining operations.

The uranium mining permit files have been appraised to be archival. Add an archival code of A to the retention schedule. I recommend listing these two series as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 3 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." Transfer files when they have fulfilled their retention period to the Archives and Information Services Division. Transfer microfilm of the paper records only if the film is of archival quality and only if both a silver halide master and a diazo copy can be sent. Otherwise, transfer the paper files.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Quarry and pit "pit" files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: 0.5 cubic ft.

Agency holdings:
Original paper record is maintained until pit becomes inactive or is reclaimed. At some point the agency intends to microfilm these files, destroying the paper copy after filming, but this has not yet occurred. The microfilm will have a retention period of permanent. Dates covered are ca. 1991-[ongoing]. Files comprise 32 cubic feet and are housed in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These files contain applications for certificates to prove that operators erected safety barriers along quarries or pits, registration forms from companies operating a quarry or a pit, plans for constructing barriers, and inspection reports re: the barriers by the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are ca. 1991-[ongoing]. The registration forms also serve as an inventory of quarries and pits in the state as operators are asked to register active, inactive, and abandoned sites. Records concerning the establishment of the quarry and pit program, and correspondence with operators re: locating sites are in the series Quarry and pit administrative files (7.043). The agency also maintains an in-house database that documents quarry and pit registrations, and safety certificates issued.

In 1991, the 72nd Legislature, Regular Session, passed House Bill 451, the Texas Aggregate Quarry and Pit Safety Act. This act mandates that operators register their quarries or pits. When it is registered, the RRC determines if the pit/quarry requires a safety barrier. Barriers are required along the top of pits that have access points along public roads. In lieu of a barrier, operators can slope the sides of the pit. The operators apply for safety certificates to certify that the barrier or other device has been constructed. RRC staff inspect the safety devices to confirm that safety requirements are met. If the requirements are met, the RRC issues a safety certificate. If not, the applicant has 60 days to correct any defects and reapply.

The quarry and pit program of the RRC is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter E. According the RRC staff, a recent Attorney General ruling has removed some types of inactive gravel pits from the safety barrier regulation.

Purpose:
These document the registration of quarries and pits with the RRC, provide an inventory of sites, and records the construction of safety barriers along quarries and pits with public road access as required under 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter E.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Alphabetically by county, then by pit number.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Each pit is assigned a pit number and information about ownership, location of pit, date of application, safety certificate, and other information that is useful to us are entered in a database. Any statistical information about the pits is available from the database by querying for the information. There is a file for each pit number and each pit file is filed by county and then by pit number.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Quarry and pit "pit" files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.040
Archival code: none
Retention: AC (paper)

Title: Quarry and pit "pit" files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.041
Archival code: none
Retention: PM (microfilm - none microfilmed yet)

Title: Quarry and pit database
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.044
Archival code: none
Retention: AV (electronic dbase)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These files document the construction of safety barriers along quarries and pits, and through the registration forms, contain an inventory of all active, inactive, and abandoned quarries and pits in the state. The quarry and pit files have evidential value concerning these RRC functions. Documenting construction of safety barriers has administrative value to the agency, but not archival value. Having an inventory of all the quarries and pits in the state has long-term administrative and historical value, especially being able to locate abandoned sites. The inventory of sites warrants permanent retention. The agency feels it needs to retain the permit files permanently in its role of regulating the quarry and pit program. Because the Railroad Commission is keeping the records permanently, the Archives is not appraising this series at this time. If this function should be discontinued in the future and the records no longer retained by the RRC or an agency performing this function, the Archives will review these files for archival value. Add an archival code of R to the schedule and the following note in the Remarks column: "Records will be reviewed for archival value by the Library and Archives Commission if the Railroad Commission decides not to maintain the records permanently."

Since the agency does intend to start microfilming at some point, I recommend listing the series of paper and microfilm records as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is retained until the pit becomes inactive or is reclaimed. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed." It should have a retention period of PM. The database series listed on the schedule, Quarry and pit database (7.044) contains data from the quarry and pit "pit" files. The retention period for the database is appropriate.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Quarry and pit administrative files

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
The agency intends to retain the original paper record for 10 years then microfilm. Once microfilmed, the paper copy will be destroyed. Records in this series have not yet been filmed. The retention period of the microfilm will be permanent. Dates covered are 1991-[ongoing]. Files comprise 1.6 cubic feet and are kept in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are administrative files consisting primarily of planning records, correspondence, and rules concerning the establishment of the quarry and pit program operated by the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division of the Railroad Commission. Dates covered are 1991-[ongoing]. Correspondence is generally with local agencies and quarry/pit operators contacted to help identify quarries or pits in the state. A related series containing files concerning the registration of quarries and pits and the construction of barriers along pits is the series Quarry and pit "pit" files (7.040, 7.041).

In 1991, the 72nd Legislature, Regular Session, passed House Bill 451, the Texas Aggregate Quarry and Pit Safety Act. Part of this act including the establishment of a program to locate and identify pits and quarries in the state, including active, inactive, and abandoned sites. The quarry and pit program is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter E.

Purpose:
These document the establishment of the quarry and pit program operated by the RRC and efforts by the agency to locate quarries and pits in the state. This program is regulated by 16 TAC, Chapter 11, Subchapter E.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Topical by subject, then date.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access?
Yes, the information from each document is entered on the Surface Mining correspondence tracking system. Each document received or written is listed under Quarry and Pits and can be searched by date written, date received, subject, author of cover letter, or addressee.

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Quarry and pit administrative files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.042
Archival code: none
Retention: 10 years (paper)

Title: Quarry and pit administrative files
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.043
Archival code: none
Retention: PM (microfilm)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These files document the establishment of the quarry and pit program and contain correspondence with local agencies in the attempt of the RRC to locate all quarries and pits in the state. The records are administratively valuable to the agency as they are used in the operation of the quarry and pit program; they also have some evidential value concerning the establishment that program. However, there is not sufficient unique information about the program to warrant archival retention. The program's functions are also covered in the Texas Administrative Code, with summaries of division activities present in agency publications, including the Legislative Appropriation Requests, the Strategic Plans, and the Annual Financial Report. The inventory of quarries and pits in the state needs permanent documentation, as is found in the series Quarry and pit "pit" files. The series of administrative files being reviewed here contains correspondence with local agencies about the sites; locations of the sites are in the "pit" files.

The quarry and pit administrative files have been appraised to be non-archival. Since the series did not contain archival codes no changes need to be made to the retention schedule. Since the agency does intend to start microfilming at some point, I recommend listing the series of paper and microfilm records as one on the retention schedule with a note in the Remarks section as follows - "Original paper record is maintained for a minimum of 10 years. Once microfilmed, the paper copy is destroyed."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Abandoned mine lands, South, East, West Texas inventory

Agency: Railroad Commission
Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD)

Contact: Jane Willis

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Most of the original paper records have been retained by the agency. (The files of three mines that have been reclaimed and returned to the owner were microfilmed and the paper copy destroyed.) The paper files have a retention period of 10 years, the microfilm has a retention period of permanent. Dates of the files are mid 1980s-early 1990s. Paper files comprise 2 cubic feet, size of the microfilm is unknown. The paper records and a duplicate of the microfilm are in the Surface Mining and Reclamation Division at agency headquarters. Microfilm master is maintained at the State Records Center.

Description:
These are survey forms, reports, inspections, contracts, and payment records concerning a survey by the Railroad Commission to locate any mines, including abandoned mines, posing an environmental or safety threat and action taken to correct the hazards. Dates covered are the mid 1980s-early 1990s. The survey was undertaken with federal funds and included coal, uranium, mercury, cinnabar, hard rock, and other mines. For sites that posed environmental or safety hazards, reports state what is needed to make the sites safe. Work could include reclamation of the mine or something as simple as putting a grate over a shaft entrance. The files contain the completed survey forms, reports, bidding and contracting materials concerning work done, inspections of sites, payment vouchers, and certifications that work was completed. Several reports were done as part of the inventory process. Each report includes the name of the mine, area located in, and type of mine. The reports do not include any documentation of the work done to correct hazards. An in-house database maintained by the agency contains information from the inventory and some of the other data in this series. Reclamation work on abandoned mines is fully documented in the series Abandoned mine land files (7.003, 7.004).

Purpose:
These record abandoned mines in the state and work done to correct hazardous situations, as mandated under Title IV of the federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 and the administrative code of Texas, 16 TAC, §12.8.

Agency program:
Created in 1891, the Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency in the State of Texas (House Bills 1,2, and 58, 22nd Legislature, Regular Session). It originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. . The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: Arranged by regions of Texas - south, east, and west

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records:
There were three reports published (with limited distribution) based on the survey findings by the Railroad Commission:
West Texas Mine Land Survey Report
South Texas Uranium District Abandoned Mines Land Inventory
Re-inventory of Abandoned Coal Mines in Texas

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Abandoned mine lands, South, East, West Texas inventory
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.047
Archival code: none
Retention: 10 years (paper)

Title: Abandoned mine lands, South, East, West Texas inventory
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.048
Archival code: none
Retention: PM (microfilm)

Title: Abandoned mine lands, South, East, West Texas inventory
Series item number: none
Agency item number: 7.049
Archival code: none
Retention: US (database)

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
None, the reports were not sent to the Publications Depository.

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These files provide an inventory of all abandoned mines in Texas and document measures taken by the RRC to fix sites that were hazardous to the environment or to the public. The inventory itself is valuable as a source document listing the mines - their location and what was mined. It is important to document what was hazardous about the mines and how they were corrected. Abandoned mines, unless they are totally reclaimed, can sit unnoticed for years, then something happens with the land and documentation about the mine is required. The inventory of abandoned mines warrants permanent retention. The agency feels it needs to retain these files permanently as part of the functioning of its abandoned mine land program. Because the Railroad Commission is keeping the records permanently, the Archives is not appraising this series at this time. If this function should be discontinued in the future and the records no longer retained by the RRC or an agency performing this function, the Archives will review these files for archival value. Add an archival code of R to the schedule and the following note in the Remarks column: "Records will be reviewed for archival value by the Library and Archives Commission if the Railroad Commission decides not to maintain the records permanently."

We request copies of the three reports/inventories produced as a result of this survey be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the agency's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Plans and planning records

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Information Technology Services Division

Contact: Renae Gunter

Obsolete record series? No

Ongoing record series? Yes
Annual accumulation: fractional

Agency holdings:
Retained for three years after decision is made to implement or not implement the plan. Dates covered are 1992-[ongoing]. Files comprise about 0.5 cubic feet and are kept in the ITS Division at agency headquarters.

Description:
These are plans by the ITS Division to enhance its overall production, including procuring equipment, planning expenditures, technology applications. Dates covered are 1992-[ongoing]. There are currently four plans in this series: Agency Strategic Plan for Information Resources Management, Biennial operating plan, Information Resources Strategic Plan, and Initial operating plan.

Purpose:
Information Resources Strategic Plan - To develop a planning process that contains specific steps and formats to be incorporated into the procurement of equipment.

Agency Strategic Plan for Information Resources and Initial Operating Plan - Describes the strategic application of technology in support of the agency and statewide goals.

Biennial Operating Plan - Describes the planned information resources expenditures in accordance with the Information Resources Management Act.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Information Technology Services Division provides staff and technical support for electronic records management and information processing at the RRC. It supports the mainframe computer, midrange computer, local area network, and wide area network for mission critical applications, include electronic communications and the geographic information system. It also supports the RRC's web-based applications.

Arrangement: Alphabetical by plan.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
This is a series described by three divisions. Two divisions have it listed separately on the schedule under the records of their division (including ITS), one division uses the agency-wide series listing. We are describing it separately for each, so it will appear in this report three times.

Known related records in other agencies: None

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule:
Title: Plans and planning records
Series item number: 1.1.024
Agency item number: A.023
Archival code: R
Retention: AC+3

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: None

Appraisal decision:
These are planning reports prepared by the Information Technology Services Division designed to forecast its needs in the future. The plans discuss budget, equipment procurement, and technology application. This information will also be present, in summary form, in the legislative appropriation requests and strategic plans prepared by the agency. Those publications are archival and provide sufficient documentation of the ITS planning activities. This series has been appraised to be non-archival. It needs to be added to the ITS section of the retention schedule with these changes: replace the archival code of R with an E and add the following note to the Remarks column for this series, "Archival review code removed subsequent to appraisal by the Archives and Information Services Division of the Library and Archives Commission, March 16, 2001."

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Motor transportation transcripts

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Motor Transportation Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1922-ca. 1925 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are transcripts of testimony from motor transportation hearings, dating ca. 1922-ca. 1925.

Purpose:
Transcripts record testimony presented in hearings held by the agency.

Agency program:
The Texas Railroad Commission was the first regulatory agency created in the State of Texas and originally had jurisdiction over the rates and operations of railroads, terminals, wharves and express companies. The legal focus was on intrastate passenger and freight activities. Interstate jurisdiction fell under the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. For the first twenty-five years of its existence, the Railroad Commission was largely concerned with regulating railroads, setting rates, receiving complaints, and making investigations. As other controversies arose where the Legislature deemed that the public interest could best be served by regulation, additional duties were assigned to the Railroad Commission.

The Motor Bus Law of 1927, House Bill 50, 40th Legislature, Regular Session, and the Motor Carrier Law of 1929, House Bill 654, 41st Legislature, Regular Session, extended the Commission's regulatory powers to commercial transportation of persons and property on state highways. In 1995, following federal deregulation of motor carriers, the 74th Legislature eliminated the agency's authority to regulate commercial carriers involved in intrastate transport and transferred the remaining responsibilities related to commercial carriers (motor carrier registration, insurance verification, and safety) to the Texas Department of Transportation (Senate Bill 971, Regular Session), and the Department of Public Safety (Senate Bill 3, Regular Session).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By docket

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems:
The Railroad Commission no longer has motor transportation functions. Most were transferred to the Texas Department of Transportation, some to the Department of Public Safety. These records have no relationship to any current records at the Railroad Commission.

Known related records in other agencies:
Texas Department of Transportation.

Transcripts of hearings, 1960s (re: operation of commercial trucks/buses) - destruction request dated December 16, 1988.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
Transcripts of application hearings, 1930-1956, 33 linear ft.
This series contains transcripts of testimony at hearings held by the Motor Transportation Division to determine if certificates should be granted to allow applicants to operate commercial vehicles on public highways. Dates covered are 1930-1956.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records are only present for the early-mid 1920s.

Appraisal decision:
These are transcripts of hearings held by the former Motor Transportation Division of the Railroad Commission. Regulation of motor transportation is now a function of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). According to the RRC, when motor transportation records were transferred to TxDOT these records were left at the RRC, seemingly indicating they were not needed. The Archives holds transcripts from hearings dating 1930-1956. The records described in this series review are probably part of that series. The survey archivist, Paul Beck, recommended keeping the transcripts we already had because "they show the procedures and factors the Motor Transportation Division considered when implementing its prime legislative mandate - who could use the state's highways for commercial profit and who could not." He reviewed files from the 1960s at the RRC and appraised those as non-archival because the policy-making decisions made during the early years of the process were already established. And, decisions on applications were documented in the minutes of the Railroad Commission. He and other archivists felt that early documentation of the hearing process was essential, but to obtain later records was "historical overkill." Because of the early date of the transcripts being reviewed here and their evidential value in the hearing process, this series has been appraised to be archival. The box can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Cancelled or denied orders

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Motor Transportation Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated in the 1960s and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are cancelled and/or denied orders concerning the status of the carrier in motor carrier hearings, dating in the 1960s.

Purpose:
Orders are decisions made by the Railroad Commission in motor transportation hearings. These record orders cancelled or denied.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: unknown

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Known related records in other agencies:
Texas Department of Transportation.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: Records are only present for the 1960s.

Appraisal decision:
These are cancelled and denied orders concerning the status of carriers in motor carrier hearings for a few years in the 1960s. Decisions on applications are documented in the minutes of the Railroad Commission. Regulation of motor transportation is now a function of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). According to the RRC, when motor transportation records were transferred to TxDOT these records were left at the RRC, likely indicating they were not needed. These orders do not have any further administrative value and little historical value. Additionally, they cover a narrow time frame. This series is not archival and is not to be transferred to the Archives. If the RRC wishes to destroy the records, a "Request for Authority to Dispose of State Records" (Form RMD 102) must be submitted and receive approval. If the agency decides to retain the described records, the series must be added to the agency's records retention schedule.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Motor carrier dockets

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Motor Transportation Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1939-1958 and comprise one cubic foot.

Description:
These are motor carrier docket files containing applications, motions, notices, and testimony, dating ca. 1939-1958. Types of dockets include applications for tender, requests to organize a company, and a request to rescind orders.

Purpose:
Dockets record legal and enforcement action taken by the agency concerning motor transportation regulation.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By docket

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Known related records in other agencies:
Texas Department of Transportation.

Publications based on records: None

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
These transcripts may be related to the dockets, the nature of all the cases in the docket files being reviewed is unknown.

Transcripts of application hearings, 1930-1956, 33 linear ft.
This series contains transcripts of testimony at hearings held by the Motor Transportation Division to determine if certificates should be granted to allow applicants to operate commercial vehicles on public highways. Dates covered are 1930-1956.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to about 1939 or after 1958.

Appraisal decision:
This series contains motor transportation dockets. There is only one box of materials to cover a twenty year period. These dockets were obviously removed from the larger series at some point in the past. It is unknown where the rest of the dockets are, possibly at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Regulation of motor transportation is now a function of the Texas Department of Transportation. According to the RRC, when motor transportation records were transferred to TxDOT these records were left at the RRC, seemingly indicating they were not needed. We do not have any motor transportation docket files at the Archives, just hearing transcripts. These dockets probably cover different types of hearings than do the transcripts, according to what little we know about these series, but there may be a relationship between the series. Decisions on applications are in the minutes of the Railroad Commission. However, the files have some evidential value in documenting the hearing process. Since the dockets cover fairly early years of motor carrier regulation and consist of only one box, they have been appraised to be archival. The box can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Motor freight docket files

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas
Motor Transportation Division

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Records are dated ca. 1930-1937 and consist of four cubic feet.

Description:
These are docket files concerning various motor freight rules and related issues, dating ca. 1930-1937. Materials present include notices, petitions, opinions, orders, circulars, correspondence, memoranda, rule amendments, etc.

Purpose:
Dockets record legal and enforcement action taken by the agency concerning motor transportation regulation.

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

Arrangement: By docket

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Known related records in other agencies:
Texas Department on Transportation.

Publications based on records: none

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
These transcripts may be related to the dockets, it is unknown the nature of all the cases in the docket files being reviewed.

Texas Documents Collection holdings: None

Gaps: No records are present prior to about 1930 or after 1937.

Appraisal decision:
These are early docket files concerning motor freight issues. Regulation of motor transportation is now a function of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). According to the RRC, when motor transportation records were transferred to TxDOT these records were left at the RRC, likely indicating they were not needed. The files have some evidential value in documenting the hearing process and may complement hearing transcripts we hold. Since the dockets files cover early years of motor carrier freight regulation they have been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the RRC's earliest convenience.

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Records Series Review
Series Title:
Arkansas-White-Red River Basin studies

Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas

Contact: Elsa Bosque

Obsolete record series? Yes
Replaced by: none

Ongoing record series? No

Agency holdings:
Retained in the Central Records area of the Oil and Gas Division at agency headquarters. Files are dated 1955 and comprise two cubic feet.

Description:
These are reports, drafts, etc., on water and other resources in the Arkansas, White, and Red River Basins, dating 1955. The river basins cover areas in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas. The reports in this series were produced by the Arkansas-White-Red River Basins Interagency Committee in 1955. Materials in this series include collection data, annotated drafts, and final reports. Topics covered include mosquito control, oil and gas by products, and water resources. Elements in the reports include descriptive data, summaries of research and data gathered, cost analysis, recommendations for programs to initiate, and maps. The title of this set of reports is Arkansas-White-Red River Basins: a report on the conservation and development of the water and land resources, 23 volumes. A title of one report in the series is Oil, Gas and Asphalt in the Washita River Sub-Basin, Oklahoma.

Some preliminary reports and drafts of the Committee not found in this series can be found in the federal Documents Collection of the Library and Archives Commission or in the library at the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission (TNRCC). Titles of all the reports produced by the Interagency Committee are unknown. Minutes of the Interagency Committee from 1955 to 1959 can be found in the federal Documents Collection. Transcripts of public hearings of the committee in 1950 are in the library at TNRCC.

Purpose:
To conduct water and resource development studies of the Arkansas, White, and Red River basins per federal mandate (Public Law 516, 81st Congress, 1950).

Legal authority for the Railroad Commission is the Texas Constitution, Art. X, Sec. 2 and Art. XVI, Sec. 30; and the Natural Resources Code, Chapter 81.

The Arkansas-White-Red River Basins Interagency Committee was created in 1950 at the request of the President of the United States. Legislative basis for this committee was contained in the Flood Control Act of 1950, Public Law 516, 81st Congress. The Committee was made up of representatives from federal agencies concerned with water and related resource development and governors of the states involved. Each state had a work group composed of representatives from state agencies or similar bodies involved in the process. The Texas work group members were: Chief Engineer, Railroad Commission; Chairman, Texas Board of Water Development; Executive Secretary, Game and Fish Commission; State Health Officer; Director, Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas; Director, State Parks Board; Executive Director, State Soil Conservation Board; Director, Bureau of Business Research, University of Texas; and Vice Chancellor, Texas A&M University. The Committee produced an initial set of reports that were sent to the various federal and state work groups to solicit comments to accompany the report before it was submitted to Congress and the President. The comprehensive reports were published in 1955.

Arrangement: By type of record, reports in volume order.

Access constraints: None

Use constraints: None

Indexes or finding aids required for/or an aid to access? No

Problems: None

Known related records in other agencies:
Published materials - reports, drafts, public hearing transcripts are in the library of the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission. No series listing these records was located on the retention schedule of the TNRCC.

Publications based on records:
All reports by the Arkansas-White-Red River Basins Interagency Committee. Titles of all the drafts and/or reports by the committee are unknown. These are known titles.
Arkansas-White-Red River Basins: a report on the conservation and development of the water and land resources, 1955, 23 volumes. This was reissued in 1957 through the serial set (85th Congress, 1st Session, Senate Document 13) as Development of water and land resources of the Arkansas-White-Red River Basins/ letter from the director of the Bureau of the Budget transmitting a report on the conservation and development of the water and related land resources of the Arkansas-White and Red River Basins, with accompanying papers and illustrations, requested in the Flood Control Act of 1950.

Recreation Plan, Arkansas-White-Red River Basins, 1954

Transcripts of public hearings of the committee, 1950

Series data from agency schedule: None, this is a defunct series.

Archival holdings:
None in the holdings of the Archives and Information Services of the Library and Archives Commission.

Texas Documents Collection holdings:
Arkansas-White-Red River Basins: a report on the conservation and development of the water and land resources, 1955, 23 volumes. This was reissued in 1957 through the serial set (85th Congress, 1st Session, Senate Document 13) as Development of water and land resources of the Arkansas-White-Red River Basins/ letter from the director of the Bureau of the Budget transmitting a report on the conservation and development of the water and related land resources of the Arkansas-White and Red River Basins, with accompanying papers and illustrations, requested in the Flood Control Act of 1950.

Minutes, Arkansas-White-Red River Basins Interagency Committee, 1955-1959.

Gaps: No records are at the RRC prior to or after 1955. Gaps of other reports or drafts are unknown.

Appraisal decision:
These records are part of a comprehensive federal-state study on three river basins in the southwestern United States, including the Red River Basin that covers part of Texas. The records include collection data, annotated drafts done by the Railroad Commission, and a set of the final reports written in 1955. This set of reports is published and available through the federal Documents Collection and the library at the TNRCC. The TNRCC has drafts of portions of the report, some annotated. While the published report is available elsewhere, the annotations and collection data obtained by the RRC are a valuable component of this study and need to be retained as its contribution to the work group. It is not known how long items in the library at the TNRCC will be retained. This series has been appraised to be archival. The boxes can be transferred to the Archives and Information Services Division at the agency's earliest convenience.

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Glossary
Oil and Gas

Active operation--regular and continuing activities related to the production of oil and gas for which the operator has all necessary permits. In the case of a delinquent inactive well that is not permitted as a disposal or injection well, active operation requires reported production or other commission-approved operations, such as recompletion attempts, conducted downhole in a bona fide attempt to re-establish production.

Adjusted reservoir market demand forecast--the sum of all operator reservoir market demand forecasts for a reservoir after any necessary downward adjustments have been made to individual operator reservoir market demand forecasts and optional operator forecasts so that no such forecast will exceed the total capability of the operator's wells for the reservoir during the allowable month.

Brine mining facility --the brine mining injection well, and the pits, tanks, fresh water wells, pumps, and other structures and equipment that are or will be used in conjunction with the brine mining injection well.

Brine mining injection well--a well used to inject fluid for the purpose of extracting brine by the solution of a subsurface salt formation. The term "brine mining injection well" does not include a well used to inject fluid for the purpose of leaching a cavern for the underground storage of hydrocarbons or the disposal of waste, or a well used to inject fluid for the purpose of extracting sulfur by the thermofluid mining process.

Brine pit--pit used for storage of brine that is used to displace hydrocarbons from an underground hydrocarbon storage facility.

Capacity oil allowable--the allowable assigned from time to time by the director of the Oil and Gas Division or the director's delegate to an oil lease or unit engaged in a secondary or tertiary recovery program, that is consistent with the ability of the lease or unit to produce and that will prevent the occurrence of overproduced status for the lease or unit.

Casinghead gas--any gas or vapor, or both, indigenous to an oil stratum and produced from such stratum with oil.

Cathodic protection well--any well drilled for the purpose of installing one or more anodes to prevent corrosion of a facility associated with the production of oil, gas, or geothermal resources, such as a well casing, storage and separation facility, or pipeline.

Cavern--the storage space created in a salt formation by solution mining.

Common reservoir--any oil, gas, or geothermal resources field or part thereof that comprises and includes any area that is underlaid, or from which geological or other scientific data or experiments or drilling operations or other evidence appears to be underlaid by a common pool or accumulation of oil, gas, or geothermal resources.

Condensate--the liquid from a gas well.

Core hole--any hole drilled for the purpose of securing geological information to be used in the exploration or development of oil, gas, geothermal, or other mineral resources, except coal or uranium.

Delinquent inactive well--an unplugged well that has had no reported production, disposal, injection, or other permitted activity for a period of greater than 12 months and that, after notice and opportunity for hearing, the commission has not extended the plugging deadline.

Discharge or discharge of pollutants--any addition of any pollutant or combination of pollutants from any point source to waters of the state. This definition includes indirect additions of pollutants to waters of the state through pipes, sewers, or other conveyances leading into privately owned treatment works. This definition does not include the introduction of pollutants into a publicly owned treatment works.

Drilling unit--the acreage assigned to a well and outlined on the plat submitted with an application to drill.

Enhanced oil recovery project (EOR)--the use of any process for the displacement of oil from the reservoir other than primary recovery and includes the use of an immiscible, miscible, chemical, thermal, or biological process. This term does not include pressure maintenance or water disposal projects.

Exploratory wells--any oil, gas, or geothermal resource well or well drilled for exploratory purposes shall be governed by the provisions of statewide or field rules that are applicable and pertain to the drilling, safety, casing, production, abandoning, and plugging of wells.

Fluid injection--injection through an injection well of a fluid (liquid or gaseous) into a producing formation as part of an EOR project.

Gas storage or underground gas storage--storage of natural gas or other gaseous material in a productive or depleted reservoir, exclusive of gas injection for enhanced recovery.

Gas storage well or storage well--a well used for the injection or withdrawal of natural gas or any other gaseous substance into or out of an underground gas storage facility.

Gas well--any well that produces natural gas not associated or blended with crude petroleum oil at the time of production; that produces more than 100,000 cubic feet of natural gas to each barrel of crude petroleum oil from the same producing horizon; or that produces natural gas from a formation or producing horizon productive of gas only encountered in a wellbore through which crude petroleum oil also is produced through the inside of another string of casing or tubing. A well that produces hydrocarbon liquids, a part of which is formed by a condensation from a gas phase and a part of which is crude petroleum oil, shall be classified as a gas well unless there is produced one barrel or more of crude petroleum oil per 100,000 cubic feet of natural gas; and that the term "crude petroleum oil" shall not be construed to mean any liquid hydrocarbon mixture or portion thereof which is not in the liquid phase in the reservoir, removed from the reservoir in such liquid phase, and obtained at the surface as such.

Gatherer--includes any pipeline, truck, motor vehicle, boat, barge, or person authorized to gather or accept oil, gas, or geothermal resources from lease production or lease storage.

Gathering system--facilities employed to collect, compress, and transport gas to another gas gathering system, a gas plant, compression facility, or transmission line.

Geothermal energy and associated resources--all products of geothermal processes, embracing indigenous steam, hot water and hot brines, and geopressured water; steam and other gases, hot water and hot brines resulting from water, gas, or other fluids artificially introduced into geothermal formations; heat or other associated energy found in geothermal formations; any by-product derived from them.

High-cost gas--natural gas that the commission finds to be: produced from any gas well, if production is from a completion that is located at a depth of more than 15,000 feet; produced from geopressured brine; occluded natural gas produced from coal seams; produced from Devonian shale; or produced from designated tight formations or produced as a result of production enhancement work.

Hydrocarbon condensate--the light hydrocarbon liquids produced in association with natural gas.

Hydrocarbon storage well or storage well--a well used for the injection or withdrawal of liquid or liquefied hydrocarbons into or out of an underground hydrocarbon storage facility.

Landfarming--a waste management practice where oil and gas wastes are mixed with or applied to the land surface in such a manner that the waste will not migrate off the landfarmed area.

Lease--a well producing oil, gas, or oil and gas, and any group of contiguous wells producing oil, gas, or oil and gas of any number operated as a producing unit.

Liquid hydrocarbons--unrefined oil or condensate, and refined oil or condensate to be blended with unrefined liquid hydrocarbons.

Oil and gas wastes--materials to be disposed of or reclaimed that have been generated in connection with activities associated with the exploration, development, and production of oil or gas or geothermal resources, and materials to be disposed of or reclaimed that have been generated in connection with activities associated with the solution mining of brine. The term "oil and gas wastes" includes, but is not limited to, saltwater, other mineralized water, sludge, spent drilling fluids, cuttings, waste oil, spent completion fluids, and other liquid, semiliquid, or solid waste material. The term "oil and gas wastes" includes waste generated in connection with activities associated with gasoline plants, natural gas or natural gas liquids processing plants, pressure maintenance plants, or repressurizing plants unless that waste is a hazardous waste.

Oil well--any well that produces one barrel or more crude petroleum oil to each 100,000 cubic feet of natural gas.

Operator--a person, acting for himself or as an agent for others and designated to the commission as the one who has the primary responsibility for complying with its rules and regulations in any and all acts subject to the jurisdiction of the commission.

Optional operator forecast--the commission designated operator may file an optional market demand forecast for all of the operator's wells in the reservoir that is equal to the anticipated market demand for the production from the operator's wells in the field during the allowable month. The optional operator forecast for the operator's wells in the reservoir can be no greater than the total capability of the operator's wells or less than zero. An optional operator forecast must be filed by the 10th day of the month preceding the allowable month.

Pipeline system--a network of physically connected pipelines that are operated as a single unit under normal conditions

Pollutant--any waste or other substance or material, including salt water, other mineralized water, sludge, drilling fluids, cuttings, completion fluids, and oil, that is associated with any operation or activity subject to regulation by the commission under the Texas Natural Resources Code, §91.101 or §141.012.

Pollution of surface or subsurface water--the alteration of the physical, thermal, chemical, or biological quality of, or the contamination of, any surface or subsurface water in the state that renders the water harmicrofilmul, detrimental, or injurious to humans, animal life, vegetation, or property, or to public health, safety, or welfare, or impairs the usefulness or the public enjoyment of the water for any lawful or reasonable purpose.

Production--barrels of oil (including barrels of gas liquids reported as production monthly on the appropriate form) plus casinghead gas, where six thousand cubic feet of gas is the equivalent of one barrel of oil, expressed in barrels of oil equivalent (BOE).

Prorated gas field--a reservoir or field where an allocation formula is in effect.

Proration unit--the acreage assigned to a well for the purpose of assigning allowables and allocating allowable production to the well.

Protection depth--depth to which usable-quality water must be protected, as determined by the Texas Department of Water Resources, that may include zones that contain brackish or saltwater if such zones are correlative and/or hydrologically connected to zones that contain usable-quality water.

Saltwater disposal pit--pit used for disposal of produced saltwater.

Seismic hole--any hole drilled for the purpose of securing geophysical information to be used in the exploration or development of oil, gas, geothermal, or other mineral resources.

Skim hydrocarbons--oil and condensate that accumulate during produced water disposal operations.

Skimming pit--pit used for skimming oil off saltwater prior to disposal of saltwater at a tidal disposal facility, disposal well, or fluid injection well.

Surface or subsurface water--groundwater, percolating or otherwise, and lakes, bays, ponds, impounding reservoirs, springs, rivers, streams, creeks, estuaries, marshes, inlets, canals, the Gulf of Mexico inside the territorial limits of the state, and all other bodies of surface water, natural or artificial, inland or coastal, fresh or salt, navigable or non-navigable, and including the beds and banks of all watercourses and bodies of surface water, that are wholly or partially inside or bordering the state or inside the jurisdiction of the state.

Tank bottoms--a mixture of crude oil or lease condensate, water, and other substances that is concentrated at the bottom of producing lease tanks and pipeline storage tanks (commonly referred to as basic sediment and water or BS&W).

Three-year inactive well--a well that has not produced any hydrocarbons in more than one calendar month in the three years prior to the date of certification by the commission under this section.

Two-year inactive well--a well that has not produced any hydrocarbons in more than one calendar month in the two years prior to the date of certification by the Commission under this section.

Underground gas storage facility or storage facility--a facility used for the storage of natural gas or any other gaseous substance in an underground salt formation, including surface and subsurface rights, appurtenances, and improvements necessary for the operation of the facility.

Underground hydrocarbon storage facility or storage facility--a facility used for the storage of liquid or liquefied hydrocarbons in an underground salt formation, including surface and subsurface rights, appurtenances, and improvements necessary for the operation of the facility.

Usable quality water strata--all strata determined by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission to contain usable quality water.

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Gas Utilities - Liquefied Petroleum Gas

ANSI--American National Standards Institute.

Container--any receptacle, such as ASME or DOT containers, designed for the transportation or storage of LP-gas, or any receptacle designed for the purpose of receiving injections of LP-gas for use or consumption by or through an LP-gas system.

Liquefied petroleum gas, LPG, or LP-gas--any material that is composed predominantly of any of the following hydrocarbons or mixtures of hydrocarbons: propane, propylene, normal butane, isobutane, and butylenes.

LP-gas system--all piping, fittings, valves, and equipment, excluding containers and appliances, that connect one or more containers to one or more appliances that use or consume LP-gas.

Mobile fuel container--an LP-gas container mounted on a vehicle to store LP-gas as the fuel supply for uses other than motor fuel.

Pipeline facilities--facilities that include, but are not limited to, new and existing pipe, rights-of-way and any equipment, facility, or building used in the transportation of gas or the treatment of gas during the course of transportation.

Portable cylinder--a receptacle constructed to United States Department of Transportation specifications, designed to be moved readily, and used for the storage of LP-gas for connection to an appliance or an LP-gas system, excluding a cylinder designed for use on a forklift or similar equipment.

Repair to container--the correction of damage or deterioration to an LP-gas container, the alteration of the structure of such a container, or the welding on such container in a manner that causes the temperature of the container to rise above 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Transportation of gas--the gathering, transmission, or distribution of gas by pipeline or its storage within the State of Texas; except that it shall not include the gathering of gas in those rural locations that lie outside the limits of any incorporated or unincorporated city, town, village, or any other designated residential or commercial area such as a subdivision, a business or shopping center, a community development, or any similar populated area that the secretary of transportation may define as a non-rural area.

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Surface Mining and Reclamation

Abandoned--Having relinquished all right, title, claim, and possession with the intent of never again claiming a future right or title or resuming possession.

Affected land or land affected--the area from which any materials are to be or have been displaced in a surface mining operation; the area on which any materials so displaced are to be or have been deposited; the haul roads and impoundment basins within the surface mining area; other land whose natural state has been or will be disturbed as a result of the surface mining operations.

Aggregates--any commonly recognized construction material originating from a quarry or pit by the disturbance of the surface, including dirt, soil, rock asphalt, clay, granite, gravel, gypsum, marble, sand, shale, stone, caliche, limestone, dolomite, rock, riprap, or other non-mineral substance.

Barrier--an object of substantial construction that will obstruct, restrain, and prevent the normal passage of persons or vehicular traffic and may include guardrails, fences, or berms or barricades composed of consolidated material or overburden.

Coal--combustible carbonaceous rock, classified as anthracite, bituminous, sub-bituminous, or lignite by ASTM Standard D 388-77.

Coal exploration--the field gathering of: surface or subsurface geologic, physical, or chemical data by mapping, trenching, drilling, geophysical, or other techniques necessary to determine the quality and quantity of overburden and coal of an area; or the gathering of environmental data to establish the conditions of an area before beginning surface coal mining and reclamation operations.

Coal mining operation--the business of developing, producing, preparing or loading bituminous coal, sub-bituminous coal, anthracite, or lignite, or of reclaiming the areas upon which such activities occur.

Contiguous area--includes all areas touching upon the boundaries of the land affected by the surface mining operation that the operator proposes to surface mine notwithstanding areas separated by terrain features such as streams, roads, gas lines, and power transmission lines.

Disturbed area--an area where vegetation, topsoil, or overburden is removed or that topsoil, spoil, coal processing waste, underground development waste, or non-coal waste is placed by surface coal mining operations.

Exploration activity--the disturbance of the surface or subsurface for the purpose of or related to determining the location, quantity, or quality of a mineral deposit.

In hazardous proximity to a public road--that distance beginning 200 feet from the nearest roadway edge of a public road or highway to the pit perimeter.

Inactive quarry or pit--a site or any portion of a site that although previously in aggregate production is not currently being quarried by any ownership, lease, joint venture, or some other legal arrangement.

Permit area--all the area designated as such in the permit application and shall include all land affected by the surface mining operations during the term of the permit and may include any contiguous area that the operator proposes to surface mine after that time.

Pit--an open excavation not less than five feet below the adjacent and natural ground level that aggregates have been or are being extracted.

Quarry--the site where aggregates are being or have been removed or extracted from the earth to form the pit, including the entire excavation, stripped areas, haulage ramps, the land immediately adjacent thereto upon which the plant processing the raw materials is located, exclusive of any land owned or leased by the responsible party not being currently used in the production of aggregates.

Reclamation--the process of restoring an area affected by a surface mining operation to its original or other substantially beneficial condition, considering past and possible future uses of the area and the surrounding topography.

Surface mining--the mining of minerals by removing the overburden lying above the natural deposit of minerals and mining directly from the natural deposits that are exposed and those aspects of underground mining having significant effects on the surface.

Records Appraisal Report: Railroad Commission, Part Two

Contents of this report Agency Contact | Record Series Reviews

Glossary

Related report Railroad Commission, Part One

Archival finding aid Railroad Commission of Texas: An Overview of Records at the Texas State Archives, 1836-1867, 1873-1885, 1890-2001 (bulk 1891-1996)

Agency Contact

Record Series Reviews

Records Appraisal Report:
Railroad Commission, Part Two

Contents of this report
Agency Contact | Record Series Reviews

Related report
Railroad Commission, Part One

Archival finding aid
Railroad Commission of Texas: An Overview of Records at the Texas State Archives, 1836-1867, 1873-1885, 1890-2001 (bulk 1891-1996)