((a)) ** Definition of GIS** In this section, the term “GIS” means geographic information systems technology that facilitates the organization and management of data with a geographic component.
((b)) ** Program** The Secretary shall establish a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application to maximize the productive capacity of marginal wells and reservoirs.
((c)) ** Data collection** Under the program, the Secretary shall collect data on—
((1)) the status and location of marginal wells and oil and gas reservoirs;
((2)) the production capacity of marginal wells and oil and gas reservoirs;
((3)) the location of low-pressure gathering facilities and pipelines; and
((4)) the quantity of natural gas vented or flared in association with crude oil production.
((d)) ** Analysis** Under the program, the Secretary shall—
((1)) estimate the remaining producible reserves based on variable pipeline pressures; and
((2)) recommend measures that will enable the continued production of those resources.
((e)) ** Study**
((1)) ** In general** The Secretary may award a grant to an organization of States that contain significant numbers of marginal oil and natural gas wells to conduct an annual study of low-volume natural gas reservoirs.
((2)) ** Organization with no GIS capabilities** If an organization receiving a grant under paragraph (1) does not have GIS capabilities, the organization shall contract with an institution of higher education with GIS capabilities.
((3)) ** State geologists** The organization receiving a grant under paragraph (1) shall collaborate with the State geologist of each State being studied.
((f)) ** Public information** The Secretary may use the data collected and analyzed under this section to produce maps and literature to disseminate to States to promote conservation of natural gas reserves.