Project costs have been steadily rising in recent years due to the COVID pandemic, the skilled labor shortage and rising labor costs, interest rate hikes, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and increased competition for materials, among other factors.
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LEMOINE’s Building Construction teams have continued to deliver success across the state of Louisiana and beyond, completing milestone projects such as the Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport, Truman Elementary School, and the new patient tower at Ochsner Lafayette General in Lafayette, LA, and the Ochsner Center for Nursing and Allied Health at the Delgado City Park campus in New Orleans (pictured at left).
LEMOINE Disaster Services has made record progress on Louisiana’s Orphaned Wells Plugging project, plugging over 370 wells since the project’s inception. Enhancing Louisiana’s environmental resilience, plugging these wells reduces the risk of environmental disasters, ensuring that communities have a stronger defense against future challenges. Pictured, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams visited an ongoing orphaned well site at the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge in October.
LEMOINE Infrastructure performed civil work at the Ampirical substations in Arkansas and Mississippi. Our team’s scope laid the groundwork for the Delta Wind Farm and Driver project, a utility-scale wind farm committed to responsible clean energy development that creates long-term value and positive impact for both the environment and local communities.
DCMC Partners, a LEMOINE Company, recently opened a new office in the vibrant city of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. From here, our team will continue to provide first-class service to our many clients there. Since Hurricanes Irma and Maria ravaged the island of Puerto Rico in 2017, DCMC has been instrumental in resolving many of the most significant problems that surfaced during response and recovery efforts.
Macro, a LEMOINE Company, deployed to Guam on the heels of Typhoon Mawar in May 2023. The typhoon struck Guam with the force of a Category 4 hurricane and was the strongest storm to strike the island in years. LEMOINE Disaster Team members have continued to serve the island in multiple relief capacities.
LEMOINE Program Services, the firm’s full-service project and program management division, celebrated two years of operations. The team of 23 has been awarded over 50 projects, worked in 13 states, served over 35 clients, and has a permanent presence in 4 states (Alabama, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Virginia). They have taken on several exciting roles, including program management services for Cullman City Middle School (pictured above), one of four Cullman school projects managed by LEMOINE.
This year, The Workforce Group, a LEMOINE Company has supported state and local governments across Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, and California with ongoing disaster recovery programs by performing over 8,000 damage assessments and 6,000 lead-based paint inspections. WFG has also launched a proprietary program system of record solution, 1Wanda, for the State of Georgia’s CDBG-DR Homeowner Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Program, where they are responsible for comprehensive program management and delivery.
We welcomed 131 new team members across LEMOINE‘s family of services: Building Construction, Program Services, Infrastructure, Disaster Services, DCMC, Workforce Group, and Macro.
In the heart of Louisiana, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, a silent threat has lurked beneath the surface for decades: Orphan wells. These wells, once used for oil and gas exploration, pose significant environmental risks if left unchecked. However, LEMOINE acting in the role of Construction Manager at Risk (CMaR) for the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR), has undertaken the ambitious project to plug these wells, contributing to the environmental sustainability and resilience of the state. LEMOINE’s services to LDNR include methane monitoring, federal compliance reporting, disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) outreach and utilization, site restoration, and plug and abandonment (P&A) of wells.
Orphan wells are a ticking time bomb that can contaminate groundwater, soil, and release harmful gases into the atmosphere. They not only endanger the environment but also pose health and safety risks to nearby communities. Louisiana, with its extensive history of oil and gas extraction, has roughly 4,500 orphaned wells that require immediate attention. As of December 2020, there are over 97,213 documented orphan wells throughout the United States. But that number leaves out the hundreds of thousands of additional undocumented orphaned wells that remain.
Plugging of orphan wells is a crucial step in mitigating environmental damage. These wells can serve as conduits for the migration of harmful substances like oil, gas, and brine, contaminating the soil and groundwater. People living near some orphaned wells may be exposed to their methane and other gas emissions and subsurface fluids leaking to groundwater and/or soil. By sealing these wells, LEMOINE is preventing further pollution and safeguarding Louisiana’s natural resources.
One of the most significant impacts of LEMOINE’s orphan well plugging project is the enhancement of Louisiana’s environmental resilience. As climate change intensifies, and the frequency of natural disasters increases, it is essential for states to fortify their ecosystems and infrastructure. Plugging these wells reduces the risk of environmental disasters, ensuring that communities have a stronger defense against future challenges.
Apart from the environmental and social benefits, LEMOINE’s project also has had a positive economic impact. Job creation, increased property values, and the reduction of potential liabilities are just a few of the economic advantages that come with properly plugging orphan wells. This, in turn, strengthens the state’s economic resilience.
As LEMOINE moved through the development of our plan, we started recruiting local P&A companies and forming alliances of small providers in disadvantaged communities. With a target of wells established with LDNR, we created buyout packages for each well with local vendors. We helped them with funding, compliance, and reporting; provided company men, safety officers, and well site supervisors; de-risked the jobsites; and brought in A rated insurers and practices. LEMOINE bridged the gap of requirements that make federal projects tough for small companies.
LEMOINE ended up removing enough obstacles and creating so many new efficient teams and affiliations that we drove the projected costs of the P&A work down by nearly 20% and returned the savings to LDNR. LEMOINE has since been able to perform P&A work for 370 wells at the original projected cost of 300.
LEMOINE flattened the hills and valleys of difficult buyout and management of federal compliant projects – and produced a product that put Louisiana at the top end of producers on wells capped in 2023.
LEMOINE’s commitment to plugging orphan wells is a shining example of how private companies can play a pivotal role in enhancing environmental sustainability and resilience. By addressing the environmental risks posed by orphan wells, LEMOINE is not only safeguarding the state’s natural resources but also setting a precedent for responsible and sustainable construction practices.
As LEMOINE moves forward with P&A projects in Louisiana and branches out to assist other states, we will continue to take proactive measures to protect the environment, strengthen local communities, and create a more resilient future. Together, we can ensure that the silent threats beneath the surface do not become active disasters in our future.
As temperatures rise, it’s important to stay cool to protect yourself from the dangers of heat exhuastion. We have compiled tips from the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) Policy and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) National Emphasis on Heat, which aim to enhance heat safety standards.
What is Heat Illness?
Heat Illness refers to the array of heat related health complications that arise from over-exposure to heat, especially when performing strenuous activities. Heat Illnesses include: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat syncope, and heat stroke.
Drinking enough water is crucial to maintaining a healthy body temperature. Hydration helps your body regulate heat and prevents dehydration. Remember to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol as they can lead to dehydration.
Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and breathable clothing can make a significant difference in staying cool. Opt for light-colored outfits that reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them. Additionally, don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from direct sunlight.
When the sun is at its peak, it’s wise to seek shade whenever possible. Shade provides respite from direct sunlight and can help lower the overall temperature around you. If you’re spending time outdoors, look for trees, umbrellas, or canopies to create your own shade.
Engaging in strenuous activities for prolonged periods in high temperatures can put you at risk of heat-related illnesses. Ensure you take frequent breaks, especially during peak heat hours. Use these breaks to rest in a cool and shaded area and allow your body to recover.
If you’re not accustomed to hot weather, it’s essential to acclimate your body gradually. Sudden exposure to extreme heat can be overwhelming and increase the risk of heat stress. Begin by spending shorter amounts of time in the heat and gradually increase exposure over several days to help your body adjust.
During hot weather, it’s crucial to check on the well-being of vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. They are more susceptible to heat-related complications and may require additional assistance. Offer support and help them stay cool and hydrated.
OSHA has placed significant importance on heat safety, issuing guidelines and recommendations to protect workers from heat-related hazards. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines, especially if you work in industries that expose you to high temperatures. Understanding your rights and employer responsibilities can help ensure a safe working environment.
The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is a useful metric used to evaluate the risk of heat-related illnesses. It takes into account factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. Stay informed about the WBGT readings in your area, especially if you work or exercise outdoors. Adjust your activities accordingly to minimize risk.
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature vs Heat Index
While the WBGT and Heat Index both attempt to describe how “hot” it is and the potential for heat related stresses, they go about it in different ways.
► Heat Index is more commonly used and understood by the general public – the higher the values the hotter it’s going to feel and the higher the threat for heat related illnesses. It’s calculated from the temperature and relative humidity. What’s not commonly known is that Heat Index assumes you are in the shade.
► WBGT also uses the temperature and humidity in its calculation, but temperatures are measured in direct sunshine. It also factors in wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover.
Bottom-line upfront >>>> what value should you use? For day-to-day activities, heat index will serve you well. If you work outside or plan on any sort of vigorous outdoor activity in the full sun, use the WBGT.
Living in a hurricane-prone area requires adequate preparation to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. One of the most important steps you can take is to assemble a well-equipped hurricane preparedness kit. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential items recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to include in your hurricane disaster kit. By following these recommendations, you can enhance your readiness and resilience in the face of a hurricane.
When preparing for a hurricane, it is crucial to have an ample supply of clean water and non-perishable food items that can sustain you and your family for at least three days. FEMA suggests the following:
Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit and ensure an ample supply of prescription medications. Here are some recommendations:
During a hurricane, power outages and disrupted communication networks are common. Prepare to stay connected and well-informed with these items:
Personal Items and Sanitation: Maintaining hygiene during and after a hurricane is essential for health and well-being. Include the following items:
Protect your vital documents and have access to cash in case electronic payment systems are unavailable:
By heeding FEMA’s recommendations and creating a comprehensive hurricane disaster kit, you can ensure the safety, comfort, and resilience of your household during and after a hurricane. Remember to periodically review and refresh your supplies, customize your kit based on your family’s specific needs, and stay informed about local evacuation plans and emergency protocols. Prioritizing preparedness can help mitigate the impact of a hurricane and provide peace of mind in challenging times.
Remember to consult FEMA’s official website (www.fema.gov) for the most up-to-date information and guidelines on hurricane preparedness and response. Stay safe, be proactive, and protect what matters most – yourself and your loved ones.
LEMOINE is a global provider of comprehensive Disaster Services equipped to prepare, respond, recover, and mitigate the impact of natural and man-made disasters. Our team of industry leaders provides expertise in a range of services to address all aspects of disaster recovery including grant and program management, inspections and claims, strategic surge staffing, and emergency provisions such as power, water, and fuel. By strategically investing in leading companies worldwide, LEMOINE is empowered to provide exceptional support throughout the entire disaster lifecycle, enabling us to respond effectively to national and international disasters.
We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to our esteemed team at LEMOINE Program Services. John Ramares, an accomplished professional in the Design and Construction Industry, has recently joined us, bringing a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm. With his arrival, we are excited to expand our Owner’s Representation Services into the Middle Tennessee and Nashville market, further solidifying our presence in this dynamic region.
John Ramares joins LEMOINE with decades of experience in the Design and Construction industry.
LEMOINE Program Services – Comprehensive Program Management Solutions:
LEMOINE Program Services has earned a reputation as a renowned provider of Full-Service Program Management Solutions. Our diverse range of services includes Advisory, Audit + Controls, Dispute Resolution, Energy + Sustainability, Facilities Consulting, Preconstruction Services, Program Management, Transition Planning, and much more. By offering a comprehensive suite of services, we ensure that our clients receive holistic support throughout every stage of their projects.
A Valuable Addition to the Team:
John Ramares brings with him several years of experience in the Design and Construction Industry, making him a valuable asset to our team. His expertise and leadership will be instrumental in spearheading the expansion of our Owner’s Representation Services in the Middle Tennessee / Nashville market. With John at the helm, we are confident in our ability to deliver exceptional results and exceed client expectations.
Driving Growth and Success in Middle Tennessee:
As we embark on this exciting journey, we are committed to contributing to the growth and success of LEMOINE Program Services in the Middle Tennessee region. John’s deep understanding of the local market, combined with our comprehensive service offerings, will enable us to forge strong collaborations with clients and industry professionals. Together, we will ensure that projects are executed with excellence, adhering to the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
Learn More about LEMOINE Program Services:
To discover more about our comprehensive range of services and how we can assist you, please visit our website at programservices.1lemoine.com. There, you will find detailed information about our expertise and the values that guide us in every endeavor.
In 2022, LEMOINE made a vow to continue improving the communities we serve by implementing a Volunteerism Policy as a benefit for our employees and our communities. We believe that giving back is the only way forward. To encourage our employees to go out and volunteer for the organizations and causes they are passionate about, we have added Paid Volunteer Time to our Benefit Plan. We have added Volunteerism to our Corporate Goals for all employees as part of our Incentive Plan as well. Together, we have already made a difference. In Q1 of 2023, LEMOINE has logged 763 Hours of Volunteer Time. We decided to interview some of our employees who have logged Volunteer Time, and their responses are below.
In a recent press release, Gov. John Bel Edwards and Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary Tom Harris announced 300 orphaned wells plugged with Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding in the last 4.5 months. LEMOINE Disaster Services is one of the two primary contractors for the project, focusing on the Shreveport, Louisiana district.
This number of wells plugged – 300 – surpasses the record of most wells plugged by the state Oilfield Site Restoration (OSR) program in previous years. The previous record was 280 completed in Fiscal year 1998–1999, and nearly doubles the average OSR fully-year plugging figures for the last few years.
Orphaned wells are abandoned or inactive oil and gas wells. They present environmental risks that require careful remediation. LEMOINE’s disaster and environmental services expertise and project management and coordination continue to significantly contribute to the success of the program.
Orphaned wells are a long-time concern in Louisiana
With thousands of abandoned wells scattered across the state, orphaned wells have long been a concern in Louisiana. If left unplugged, these wells can contaminate groundwater and surface water sources, leak oil, and emit methane, posing a threat to the environment. The responsibility of plugging these wells falls upon specialized contractors equipped with the necessary skills, equipment, and knowledge to address the issue safely and effectively.
Environmental impact and importance
The plugging of orphaned wells holds immense environmental significance. If left unattended, these wells can leak hazardous pollutants into the environment, endangering ecosystems and communities. Through their diligent efforts, LEMOINE is actively mitigating the environmental risks associated with orphaned wells and contributing to the preservation of Louisiana’s natural resources.
With LEMOINE’s ongoing efforts, we can look forward to a cleaner and safer future for Louisiana.
Remarkable efforts
Recognized for dedication to environmental responsibility, and surpassing estimated project milestones, LEMOINE has emerged as a leading contractor in tackling the plugging of orphaned wells.
“The contractors and their crews have worked hard to help us make these BIL dollars count. We’ve been fortunate to have favorable weather this spring and these folks have made the most of it,” DNR Secretary Tom Harris said. “They have set a record pace for orphaned well plugging in our state, helping us take full advantage of the opportunity presented by having such a large inflow of available funding.”
Funding and future project goals
Louisiana received an initial $25 million grant of BIL funding to address the state’s orphaned wells in October 2022, and DNR selected its two primary contractors in December 2022. The first well was plugged in Caddo Pine Island Field in Caddo Parish on January 17, 2023.
The Initial Grant is more than doubles the average annual amount of funding for the regular state Oilfield Site Restoration, with which the state Office of Conservation has plugged an average of about 160 wells a year depending on weather, environmental factors, and prioritization of funds for emergency response.
BIL funding is being administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) as part of an overall $1.15 billion announced in January 2022 for states to plug and remediate orphaned wells. Although the DOI has not yet released all the information, it has hinted that states will receive more funding phases this year.
Louisiana still has roughly 4,500 orphaned wells that need plugging, primarily located in north Louisiana. You can use the State of Louisiana’s BIL Dashboard to see an interactive map of BIL projects broken down by type and congressional district.
Click here to see the original press release from the Office of the Governor:
Disasters strike without warning, leaving chaos and devastation in their wake. From hurricanes and earthquakes to wildfires and floods, the destructive power of nature is a force to be reckoned with. In times of crisis, the importance of preparedness cannot be overstated. One crucial aspect of disaster planning is the implementation of pre-positioned contracts. These agreements establish a strategic partnership between clients and service providers, ensuring rapid response and effective support when disaster strikes.
There are several reasons why disaster pre-positioned contracts are beneficial for clients:
Rapid Response + Reduced Delays: Pre-positioning resources allows for a faster response to disasters. By having assets already in place, response teams can quickly mobilize and provide assistance without the delay of mobilizing resources from distant locations.
Resource Availability: During a disaster, resources such as specialized equipment, relief supplies, and trained personnel may be in high demand. Pre-positioning contracts ensure that these resources are readily available, reducing the risk of shortages and improving the overall effectiveness of the response.
Cost Efficiency: Pre-positioning contracts can lead to cost savings for clients. By establishing agreements with service providers, clients can negotiate favorable pricing and terms, potentially reducing overall costs compared to ad hoc arrangements during a crisis.
Tailored Disaster Response: Pre-positioned contracts allow contractors to perform Pre-Event Assessments and set aside resources specific to your needs if you fall into the path of a storm. Pre-event Assessments ensure that resources are readily available, reducing the risk of shortages and improving the overall effectiveness of the response.
LEMOINE Disaster Services is positioned as the right choice
for pre-positioned contracts for several reasons:
Experience + Expertise: LEMOINE has a proven track record in disaster response and recovery services. With years of experience in the field, we possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively manage various types of disasters.
Comprehensive Solutions: LEMOINE offers a wide range of services throughout the entire disaster lifecycle. LEMOINE can respond to any need for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery; grant and program management; inspections and claims; strategic surge staffing; emergency power, water, and fuel. Our comprehensive approach ensures that clients have access to the necessary resources and support throughout the disaster response and recovery process.
Strategic Planning: LEMOINE excels in strategic planning and preparedness. We work closely with clients to develop tailored pre-positioning strategies based on the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the client’s region. This proactive approach enables us to anticipate challenges and effectively address them when disasters occur.
Network + Partnerships: LEMOINE has established strong relationships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private sector partners. These collaborations enhance our capabilities and enable us to mobilize a broader network of resources during emergencies.
Commitment to Quality: LEMOINE prioritizes quality assurance and customer satisfaction. We have a proven record of efficiently managing pre-positioning contracts, ensuring prompt response times, and maintaining open communication channels with clients.
Now is the time to consider getting a pre-positioned contract in place. These are contracts that you pay for when/if you need them. It is worth it for your peace of mind. Pre-positioned disaster contracts are a proactive approach to disaster planning that empowers clients to respond swiftly, efficiently, and effectively when faced with the unexpected. These contracts streamline logistics, enhance cost efficiency, and ensure tailored solutions, while also promoting accountability and community resilience. LEMOINE Disaster Services is a reliable, trustworthy choice for pre-position contracts due to our experience, comprehensive solutions, strategic planning, network and partnerships, and commitment to quality service.
If you would like more information or have questions about pre-positioned contracts, please feel free to contact LEMOINE Disaster Services at 833-LEMOINE or visit FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/grants/procurement/prepare-before-disaster
A vital component of LEMOINE’s full project lifecycle offering, LEMOINE Program Services provides expert guidance in planning, execution, and delivery of program goals, schedules, and budgets.
Under the direction of long-time industry expert Jack Darnall, LEMOINE offers a unique perspective and advantage to clients by leveraging Jack’s four-decade experience, much of that time spent as an executive for one of the top 25 contractors in the nation.
As a member of the Executive Board, Jack helped lead his former company through strategic planning and growth activities, expanding the firm’s growth from $2.2 billion to $4 billion.
Under Jack’s leadership, a team of some of the most skilled and seasoned industry experts are working collaboratively to serve LEMOINE’s clients. With decades of real-world experience working for some of the largest building contractors and program management providers in the nation, our team has the experience to ensure each client’s success.
LEMOINE Program Services has the capability to provide a full range of services including planning, execution, and delivery. Our team of industry experts begin with advising and facility consulting services, creating overall program goals, schedules, and budgets. We establish expectations, measure success, and maintain alignment throughout the management, transitioning, and move-in of each project. Program Services deliberately interconnects to LEMOINE’s other service lines, Building Construction, Infrastructure, and Disaster Services, leveraging strengths and resources of other in-house disciplines.
In just two short years of operations, our team of industry-leading experts at LEMOINE Program Services has made significant strides:
Our all-inclusive program of Project Services leverages LEMOINE’s 50 years of experience in planning, executing, and delivering successful outcomes. As your value-added partner, LEMOINE has the capability to provide full program services, or offer only a selection of services to enhance your existing in-house capabilities.
We commit our Brand Promise to you: The right people. The right solutions. Building peace of mind.
