The new organization, named the Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association (PIOGA), will represent approximately 700 members, including oil and natural gas producers, drilling contractors and service companies, as well as various professional firms, individuals and royalty owners.
Lou D’Amico, president and executive director of PIOGA, said: “The PIOGA will draw upon the combined expertise of our independent associations to better serve the needs of our member organizations, which represent the leading oil and natural gas producers working in the Commonwealth.
“By joining forces as one, unified voice, we will expand our mission to achieve even greater success for our members, including our role as liaison with other associations, companies, government and regulatory agencies to foster proactive communication, regulatory and policy development, work force and safety training, and continued education and growth within all segments of the industry.”
PIOGA will be based in Wexford, Pennsylvania and will employ a five-person staff, responsible for planning and implementing the association’s mission. In addition, PIOGA will provide oversight, as well as govern the strategic planning and direction of key deliverables, while various committees oversee transportation, safety, environmental, and exploration and production initiatives.