BLM advances environmental analysis for challenged oil and gas leases in Utah
SALT LAKE CITY – The Bureau of Land Management is moving forward with an environmental assessment for 195 litigated oil and gas leases in Utah. This analysis will satisfy court orders and settlement agreements stemming from legal challenges brought by WildEarth Guardians and other plaintiffs between 2016-2023 to oil and gas leases in Utah and six other western states.
BLM Utah published a draft environmental assessment today on BLM’s National NEPA Register website, opening a 30-day public comment period. This analysis adds to information provided in previous environmental assessments and ensures consistency with recent court orders as well as current Executive Orders, Secretary’s Orders, and Department of the Interior policy.
The BLM is using all available authorities to expedite permitting, streamline the environmental review process, and provide greater certainty for operators and customers. Completing these supplemental analyses will enable responsible oil and gas leasing and development to quickly resume in the areas in question, which is needed to help address the national energy emergency and restore American Energy Dominance.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.