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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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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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Pre-Positioned contracts equip clients to act quickly, effectively, and efficiently in the event of an emergency

Pre-Positioned contracts equip clients to act quickly, effectively, and efficiently in the event of an emergency

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When a disaster strikes, pre-positioned contracts create a strategic collaboration between clients and service providers that guarantees an immediate reaction and efficient support.

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:

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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