September Lease Sale Energizes BLM’s Mission and Our Teams

If you missed the buzz, the Eastern States team delivered a win in the September oil and gas lease sale. We leased 40 parcels—2,777 acres total—in the Wayne National Forest, generating $11,097,693 in receipts. That’s not just a number. It’s a tangible reminder of how the work across programs, disciplines, and states fuels America’s energy future. 

What makes this sale particularly noteworthy is that it was conducted under the Working Families Tax Cut Act, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. By resetting the federal onshore royalty rate from 16.67% back to 12.5%, the Act lowers the cost of developing energy on public lands. In practice, that means more industry interest, more leasing activity, and ultimately more opportunities for BLM teams to shape responsible development with strong environmental reviews and consistent public engagement. 

Whether supporting NEPA analysis, managing parcels, ensuring cultural resources are protected, or communicating these efforts to the public, every sale reflects cross‑BLM collaboration. These parcels wouldn’t be moving without field verification, GIS support, permitting expertise, and the dozens of behind‑the‑scenes steps our staff carry out every day. 

“Our success in delivering a successful oil and gas lease sale reflects the strength of our teamwork across Eastern States,” said BLM Eastern States Director Mitchell Leverette. “When we work together by sharing expertise, listening closely to partners, and staying committed to the public we serve, we achieve outcomes that support both energy needs and natural resource stewardship.” 

This sale also aligns with Executive Order 14154, “Unleashing American Energy,” reinforcing BLM’s role as a national leader in meeting U.S. energy needs. As demand for domestic produced energy grows, our work strengthens not only economic and military security but also the resilience of communities that rely on federal energy revenues. 

Once a parcel is leased, development must meet NEPA requirements and other legal authorities. Our interdisciplinary approach—from planning to monitoring—is what ensures that energy development on public lands is safe, transparent, and accountable. 

Interested in tracking upcoming sales, learning more about leasing mechanics, or seeing results firsthand? Visit the National Fluid Lease Sale System to explore documents, sale archives, and future opportunities. If you’ve ever wondered what the online auction experience looks like, sales are conducted through Efficient Markets, offering a front row view of how industry bids on federal minerals.