I was pleased to invite Ed Cross, the Executive Vice President of the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association (KIOGA) and Jon M. Callen, KIOGA President and President of the Edmiston Oil Company, to brief staff of the Senate Committee on Finance on marginal oil and gas production.

I am pleased to know the Committee received the considerable expertise and knowledge of a Kansan as we study this industry. For many years, I have relied on the advice and council of KIOGA and I know Mr. Cross and Mr. Callen represented Kansas well.

Mr. Cross’ presentation examined the challenges independent producers face and shared many success stories of Kansas producers meeting those challenges. Many were impressed to learn that in a business of declining production, Kansas has remained constant or increased production for seven years straight.

KIOGA has over 1400 members and represents the interests of a $4.7 billion dollar industry. Many may not know this, but the oil and gas industry in Kansas ranks just below agriculture in terms of gross state product.