BLM extends comment period for Proposed NPR-A Rule
Proposed rule revises management framework for the protection of subsistence resources and significant cultural and environmental values
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Bureau of Land Management is extending the public comment period for the proposed National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska (NPR-A) Rule by 10 days to allow for additional public comment. This brings the time collecting public feedback on the proposed rule to a total of 70 days. The new deadline to provide input is November 17, 2023.
The BLM manages the NPR-A in accordance with the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act of 1976 (NPRPA), which requires the BLM to balance oil and gas development with the protection of fish and wildlife, subsistence, recreational and other values. Announced in early September, the proposed rule would fulfill this duty by establishing a new framework for balancing development with the protection of Special Areas – lands that harbor significant subsistence, recreational, fish and wildlife, historical and scenic values – and the management of surface resources throughout the NPR-A. This framework, which has not been updated substantially since the early 1980s, would improve the BLM's ability to respond to changing conditions in the Arctic while providing transparency in conservation and development decisions. The proposed regulations would also enhance protections for subsistence uses and resources throughout the NPR-A, particularly within the Teshekpuk Lake, Utukok River Uplands and other Special Areas.
Please visit the NPR-A Rule website for additional resources including a rule fact sheet, frequently asked questions and presentation slides from the first virtual public meeting.
To learn more about this proposed rule or to provide comments, please visit the Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska proposed rule on https://www.regulations.gov/document/BLM-2023-0006-0001.
The BLM manages more than 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.