Reflecting on a year of Shared Successes and Growth

As the year draws to a close, we extend heartfelt gratitude for your continued trust and collaboration. This past year has been marked by shared successes, and we are sincerely thankful for the positive impact we’ve achieved together. Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with rest and reflection. Looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in the coming year and the continued success of our partnership. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.

Expanding Reach, Maintaining Our Promise

In the past year, we are thrilled to share that LEMOINE has not only deepened its roots in our home state of Louisiana but has also extended its reach far beyond. Our dedicated teams have proudly served communities in Puerto Rico, Guam, and Hawaii, exemplifying our commitment to delivering on our Brand Promise: The Right People. Whether close to home or abroad, our collective efforts have allowed us to make a meaningful impact, and we look forward to continuing this journey of growth and service in the coming year.

The Year in Pictures

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In the past year, we are thrilled to share that LEMOINE has not only deepened its roots in our home state of Louisiana but has also extended its reach far beyond. Our dedicated teams have proudly served communities in Puerto Rico, Guam, and Hawaii, exemplifying our commitment to delivering on our Brand Promise: The Right People. Whether close to home or abroad, our collective efforts have allowed us to make a meaningful impact, and we look forward to continuing this journey of growth and service in the coming year.
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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).

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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We welcomed 131 new team members across LEMOINE‘s family of services:  Building Construction, Program Services, Infrastructure, Disaster Services, DCMC, Workforce Group, and Macro. 

Rescuing Louisiana: LEMOINE Partnering to Safeguard the State from Silent Environmental Threats

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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.

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Understanding the Challenge

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.

The Environmental Impact

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.

Resilience for Future Generations

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.

Orphan Wells Count by Parish in Louisiana

Data Provided by EDF

Read the Full Report by EDF

Click Here

Economic Benefits

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.

Conclusion

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.

Creating a Comprehensive Hurricane Plan: Safeguarding Your Family and Property

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Creating a Comprehensive Hurricane Plan: Safeguarding Your Family and Property

Hurricane-Prep

Creating a Comprehensive Hurricane Plan: Safeguarding Your Family and Property

The fury of a hurricane is a force of nature that can leave devastation in its wake.  To ensure the safety and security of your loved ones and property, having a well-thought-out hurricane plan is essential. We have developed a guide for creating a comprehensive hurricane plan that will help you navigate the storm and its aftermath with greater confidence.

Understanding Hurricane Categories

Understanding Hurricane Categories help you to make informed decisions. You need to understand the potential risks, to decide which version of your Hurricane Plan you will follow.

Category
Sustained Winds
Types of Damage Due to Hurricane Winds

1

74-95 mph

Very dangerous winds will produce some damage:
Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roofs, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.

2

96-110 mph

Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage:
Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.

MAJOR

3

111-129 mph

Devastating damage will occur:
Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.

MAJOR

4

130-156 mph

Catastrophic damage will occur:
Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with the loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

MAJOR

5

157 mph +

Catastrophic damage will occur:
A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months.
Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

Make-a-Plan

MAKE YOUR PLAN

The first step to building your Hurricane Plan is determining your risks.
You can find out what rain, wind, and water hazards could happen where you live.
Some Hazards include: storm surge along the coast, inland flooding, tornadoes, strong wind, rip currents, and large waves

Develop an Evacuation Plan

If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, here are some tips to help plan:
  • Identify trusted sources for evacuation orders
  • Have multiple options of where to go and how to get there
  • Plan for children, the elderly, and pets
  • Prepare your home and property
    • Remove all loose items from the exterior of your home
    • Board up windows and secure doors (See our video tutorial below)
    • Trim trees
    • Secure large items and outdoor furniture
    • If you live in a flood zone, raise furniture and valuables
    • Get sandbags ready
    • Prepare and test your generator in a safe outdoor location with spare gas
    • Move your car to a safe location (no overhead trees or in a flood area)
    • Have tarps and tools on hand to install them
    • Have tools on hand to turn off utilities
  • Have a “go bag” of supplies
  • Gather important documents and make sure your home’s insurance is up to date and has enough coverage for possible repairs
  • Be prepared to leave immediately
  • If you are in an area ordered to evacuate, your destination could be a friend or family member’s house. It doesn’t have to be hundreds of miles away. If you live in a well-built home outside the evacuation zone, your safest option might be to stay home. Know your options and have a few of them.
    If you are staying through a storm, fill your clean bath tub with water to use for washing

It would be a good idea to set a time frame for your plan stages. If you live in a Hurricane-prone area, you may want to start assembling your emergency kit at the beginning of Hurricane Season. If you are planning to stay with friends or family, you should contact them at the beginning of the season to expect you in the event of a storm. If you are staying in lodgings, you should pre-determine a few that you are comfortable staying in and if you have pets, make sure to find pet-friendly options. If a storm develops, pre-book your room if possible so that you have a definite place to stay.

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ASSEMBLE YOUR KIT

Some items in your disaster kit may be purchased well in advance and kept in storage year after year. Always check your items at the beginning of the season to make sure nothing is expired and in good working order. Consider your Hurricane Plan when assembling your kit. Staying versus evacuating plays a large role in what you will need on hand.

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.

Hurricane Disaster Kit Checklist Print
Hurricane Kit ChecklistClick to Download
Be-Informed

STAY CONNECTED + SAFE

During a hurricane, staying informed about the storm’s progress and receiving timely updates is crucial. Here’s how you can stay informed:

  • Follow official weather alerts: Monitor local news channels, radio stations, and weather apps for updates from reliable sources like the National Weather Service.
  • Sign up for emergency notifications: Register for alerts and warnings through your local emergency management agency or community notification systems.
  • If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone: Leave immediately and follow evacuation orders.
  • Utilize technology: Download relevant mobile apps that provide hurricane tracking and emergency information.
  • Have a battery-powered radio: In case of power outages, a battery-powered radio can keep you updated on the latest news and alerts.
Hurricane Prep Download 2
Hurricane Prep GuideClick to Download

Staying Safe During and After a Hurricane

WEATHER:
  • Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
  • Take refuge in a designated storm shelter, or an interior room for high winds.
  • If trapped in a building by flooding, go to the highest level of the building. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
  • Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around.
  • Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
RETURNING HOME:
  • Pay attention to local officials for information and special instructions.
  • Be careful during cleanup. Wear protective clothing, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris, and maintain a physical distance of at least six feet while working with someone else. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled, even if they do not have an allergy to mold. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
  • Wear protective clothing and avoid working alone.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.
  • Do not wade in flood water, which can contain dangerous pathogens that cause illnesses, debris, chemicals, waste and wildlife. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
LEMOINE Disaster Services

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.

Creating a Comprehensive Hurricane Preparedness Kit for Your Home: A FEMA-Backed Guide

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Your Hurricane Preparedness Kit Checklist: Helping you keep your home and family safe

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.

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Water and Food Supplies

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:

  • Water: Store one gallon of water per person per day. Ensure you have at least a three-day supply for each household member, considering both drinking and sanitation needs.
  • Non-perishable Food: Choose foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking. Opt for canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and other long-lasting items. Remember to include a manual can opener and baby food or pet food if necessary.
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Essential Medications and First Aid

Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit and ensure an ample supply of prescription medications. Here are some recommendations:

  • First Aid Kit: Include adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, latex gloves, a thermometer, and over-the-counter medications for pain relief, allergies, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • Prescription Medications: Keep at least a seven-day supply of prescription medications for each family member. Check the expiration dates regularly and replenish as needed.
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Communication and Lighting

During a hurricane, power outages and disrupted communication networks are common. Prepare to stay connected and well-informed with these items:

  • Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Include a NOAA Weather Radio or a battery-powered radio to receive important updates and information.
  • Cell Phone and Chargers: Keep your cell phone fully charged before the storm hits and have portable chargers or extra batteries available.
  • Flashlights and Extra Batteries: Store several flashlights in your kit along with a good supply of extra batteries. Consider using LED flashlights for longer battery life.
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Personal Items and Sanitation

Personal Items and Sanitation: Maintaining hygiene during and after a hurricane is essential for health and well-being. Include the following items:

  • Toiletries: Pack toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and personal hygiene products.
  • Plastic Bags and Duct Tape: Have a supply of plastic bags for waste disposal and duct tape for various emergency repairs.
  • Comfort Items: If evacuating, pack sleeping bags, pillows, extra blankets, and battery powered fans. Traffic backs up, and you may need to stop to sleep before making it to your destination.
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Important Documents and Cash

Protect your vital documents and have access to cash in case electronic payment systems are unavailable:

  • Important Documents: Store copies of identification documents, insurance policies, medical records, and other essential papers in a waterproof container or airtight bag.
  • Cash: Keep a reasonable amount of cash in small denominations, as ATMs and credit card systems may not function during power outages.

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.

Hurricane Disaster Kit Checklist Print
Hurricane Kit ChecklistClick to Download
LEMOINE Disaster Services

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.

LEMOINE + project partners set record pace for orphaned well plugging in Louisiana

Orphaned Wells Featured Image

LEMOINE + project partners set record pace for orphaned well plugging in Louisiana

Louisiana Orphaned Wells
Photo: Shutterstock

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. 

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Photo: Getty Images

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.

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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.

Orphaned LA wells
Photo: Bill Fieg

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.”

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Photo: Cooper Neill

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: 

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