Apache hires West Texas workers

Houston exploration and production company Apache Corp. has hired the first six of 20 workers to run pipeline operations at its Alpine High play in West Texas, after more than 400 people showed up at a job fair in Pecos.

Apache recently completed the first section of a 30-inch natural gas pipeline, allowing the company to send natural gas to market for the first time and clearing the way for more wells and oil production.

Joe Brettell, an Apache spokesman, said the company has more than 300 workers in the Alpine High office and field operations, with more hiring to come.

Apache announced the play last fall, the biggest onshore find in years, with more than 15 billion barrels of oil and gas. But Alpine High has been controversial. The field covers the southern Reeves County, home to the Balmorhea State Park and its famous springfed pool. Some worry Apache’s plans — to drill as many as 3,000 wells over 20 years — threaten the region’s aquifers and park.

Apache has said it will avoid aquifers, drill private wells and recycle water to avoid using the region’s freshwater stores.