Experience
Chris Colclasure is an associate in the Environmental Practice Group. Mr. Colclasure’s focus is assisting clients with the nuances of government regulations in the areas of the Clean Air Act, NEPA, administrative agency hearings, renewable energy, and litigation. With a degree in chemistry, he brings a uniquely scientific background to his practice that allows him to understand allegations against his clients (including regulated emissions) and determine their validity.
Mr. Colclasure offers broad experience, particularly in air quality, the National Environmental Policy Act, and in obtaining approval for large projects. He advises clients on several aspects of the Clean Air Act, such as construction permits, operating permits, reporting requirements, and programs applicable to stationary sources. He has helped to prepare or defend Environmental Impact Statements and Environmental Assessments for a proposed mine, pipelines, a reservoir, and other construction projects. Mr. Colclasure defends proposed projects against challenges under the Endangered Species Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and other grounds.
Administrative agency hearing expertise in both defending administrative enforcement actions and judicial enforcement actions is another key strength Mr. Colclasure offers clients.
Mr. Colclasure’s experience in the renewable energy field includes defending a solar energy industry group before the Public Utilities Commission. He has performed considerable work before public utilities agencies, including the New Mexico Oil Conservation Commission, and before other administrative agencies.
Mr. Colclasure’s litigation experience includes NEPA cases, enforcement actions, and general civil matters. He has litigated site remediation and Superfund cost recovery cases. In addition to civil litigation, Mr. Colclasure has also prosecuted criminal cases.
Prior to joining HRO, Mr. Colclasure spent six years in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps of the United States Air Force and currently serves as an attorney in the Air Force Reserves.
Professional & Community Affiliations
Director, Rocky Mountain Association of Environmental Professionals
Associate Editor, University of Colorado Law Review, 1998-2000
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