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PIOGA Approves Resolution to Become Sole, Controlling Member of the Pennsylvania Independent Petroleum Producers Association
PIOGA Press Release. 10.27.25
Warrendale, PA – The Pennsylvania Independent Oil & Gas Association (PIOGA) announced today that its Board of Directors has approved a resolution to become the sole, controlling member of the Pennsylvania Independent Petroleum Producers Association, Inc. (PIPP)—a move that strengthens the unified voice of Pennsylvania’s oil and natural gas industry.
At its October 23, 2025, Board meeting, PIOGA voted to formally enter into an agreement with PIPP following PIPP’s unanimous approval of the same resolution during its own special board meeting earlier this month. The transaction establishes PIPP as a subsidiary of PIOGA, while both organizations will retain their independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit status and continue their longstanding missions of advocacy, education, and member support.
“By coming together under one umbrella, we’re strengthening our advocacy and ensuring Pennsylvania’s independent producers speak with one voice, one vision, and one future,” said Michael Hillebrand, PIOGA Board Chairman. “PIPP has been a vital part of this industry since 1985, and this partnership represents the next step in uniting and empowering our membership statewide.”
As part of the agreement, PIPP’s revamped Board of Trustees will maintain operational control over PIPP’s existing programs and seminars. At the same time, both organizations will continue their collaborative engagement on state and federal policy issues impacting Pennsylvania’s oil and gas producers.
“This new framework allows both associations to operate more efficiently and with greater impact in Harrisburg and beyond,” said Dan Weaver, PIOGA’s President and Executive Director. “We share the same purpose—to advance the interests of independent producers—and together, we can amplify our influence, resources, and results.”
“This is a win for every independent producer in Pennsylvania,” said Dave Hill, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Independent Petroleum Producers Association. “By aligning with PIOGA while maintaining our own identity, we’re building on decades of grassroots leadership and ensuring that the voices of small producers remain strong, united, and heard where it matters most.”
PIOGA and PIPP will finalize operational details over the coming weeks, including shared service agreements and governance updates, ensuring a seamless transition for both memberships.
EQB Votes to Study Setback Petition, Industry Petitions Also Accepted
On December 9, the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) voted 12-5 to accept a petition for study seeking increased setback distances from shale gas wells. The Clean Air Council and Environmental Integrity Project submitted the petition, which proposes minimum distances up to 3,281 feet from buildings and over a mile from schools and hospitals.
While the EQB moves forward with study, Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry also had three of its own petitions accepted for review. These petitions focus on practical industry concerns, including setting attainable bottom requirements for plugging wells, revising oil and gas wastewater handling and reuse, and allowing electronic copies of emergency plans.
The EQB’s decision to accept the petitions for study does not automatically change regulations, but it highlights the ongoing dialogue between regulators, industry, and other stakeholders. Industry representatives, including the Marcellus Shale Coalition, expressed concern that the setback petition could restrict natural gas development, threaten energy reliability, and impact thousands of Pennsylvania jobs.
This development underscores the importance of supporting the conventional oil and gas industry and staying engaged in regulatory discussions. PIOGA continues to advocate for policies that protect Pennsylvania’s energy infrastructure, family-owned producers, and the communities that depend on local energy resources.
Want to get involved? Reach out to PIOGA to learn how you can participate in advocacy efforts or join one of our committees to help ensure Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry remains strong.
Check out the 2026 PIOGA Calendar
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