BLM issues decision for Westbound compression expansion project

KEMMERER, Wyo. — The Bureau of Land Management has issued a decision record and finding of no significant impact based on the environmental assessment (EA) for the Westbound Compression Expansion Project located in Sweetwater, Uinta, and Lincoln counties.

The decision will authorize a short-term right-of-way to MountainWest Overthrust Pipeline, LLC (Overthrust). The right-of-way allows use of a temporary construction workspace to support upgrades to an existing compressor station as part of the project, which involves routine infrastructure upgrades to support natural gas energy infrastructure. The proposed project, led by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), is located in the Sage-grouse Priority Habitat Management Area. Although FERC is the lead agency, the BLM is responsible for authorizing actions on federally managed lands.

Overthrust completed the Density Disturbance Calculation Tool (DDCT) assessment, as required by Wyoming Game and Fish, without any additional issues. The DDCT is a spatial analysis tool that helps evaluate surface disturbances and density of development in sage-grouse habitats. Because the project is located on federally administered lands in the sage Priority Habitat Management Area, this EA addresses any potential impacts to sage-grouse nesting habitats.

This project supports Executive Order 14154 and SO 3418 - Unleashing American Energy, which promote development of domestic energy resources to strengthen energy independence, support economic growth, and enhance national security.

FERC completed an environmental assessment to meet the necessary NEPA requirements for the Westbound Compression Expansion Project and is available at the Federal Register. Additional information, including the decision record, is available at the BLM National NEPA Register. For more information, please contact BLM Project Coordinator Kelly Lamborn at 307-828-4505 or [email protected].