BLM seeks comment on proposed Wabuska Geothermal Exploration in Nevada
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CARSON CITY, Nev. – During remarks at the Western Governors Association Winter Meeting today, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced that the Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on a proposed geothermal exploration project on public lands in Lyon County. BLM is developing a draft environmental assessment for the proposed Wabuska Geothermal Exploration Project, which would assess the potential for future geothermal development on approximately 54 acres of public lands north of Yerington.
“We encourage the public to share comments on the proposed project, especially comments that provide new information,” said Acting Sierra Front Field Manager Paul Fuselier. “We’re also seeking information about any historic properties in or near the project area.”
Open Mountain Energy, LLC proposes to drill and test up to 11 geothermal exploration wells and construct or improve access roads. If exploration shows the area is capable of commercial production, construction crews could create new pipelines that connect to existing infrastructure of the Whitegrass No. 1 geothermal energy plant on nearby private lands.
The preliminary environmental assessment, maps, and other information are available on the BLM National NEPA Register. The comment period begins today and ends Dec. 6, 2023. Written comments can be emailed to BLM_NV_CCDO_SFFO_NEPA_Comments@blm.gov (preferred) with “Wabuska Geothermal Exploration Project” in the subject line or delivered to BLM, Sierra Front Field Office, attn. Gerrit Buma, 5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, Nevada 89701.
The BLM manages vast stretches of public lands with potential to make significant contributions to the nation’s renewable energy portfolio. To promote development of these energy sources, BLM provides sites for environmentally sound development of clean energy on public lands. Efficient deployment of clean energy from our nation’s public lands is crucial in achieving the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, as well as Congress’ direction in the Energy Act of 2020 to permit 25 gigawatts of solar, wind, and geothermal production on public lands no later than 2025.
For questions or information related to historic properties and properties of religious and cultural significance that may be affected by the project, please contact archaeologist Shannon Goshen at 775) 885- 6152 or sgoshen@blm.gov.
For more information, please contact environmental specialist David Schroeder at 775- 885-6119 or d1schroe@blm.gov.
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.