BLM Seeks Comments on Supplement to Willow Master Development Plan Draft Analysis
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ANCHORAGE – The Bureau of Land Management will publish a Federal Register notice of public inspection March 20 announcing the availability of a supplement to the draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc.’s (CPAI) proposed Willow Master Development Plan based on changes made by the company in response to multiple stakeholder concerns and public comments on last year’s DEIS.
The announcement begins a 45-day public comment period ending May 4, 2020. The document is available for review via a link on the project page.
CPAI’s updated proposal contains design adjustments for many project components of the original proposal, although the supplement to the draft analysis primarily addresses a revision that removes construction of a module transfer island previously analyzed in Alternative B of the draft EIS.
The company’s new proposal replaces construction of the island with a plan to transport modules via sealift barge to an existing dock at Oliktok Point, Alaska, for ice road transport across the Colville River near Ocean Point. It also adds construction of a freshwater reservoir and up to three boats ramps to support subsistence activities.
“Public involvement is critical to responsibly developing our natural resources in Alaska,” said BLM Alaska State Director Chad Padgett. “Since the new module transport option and other project changes are outside the scope of the original analysis, developing a supplement to the draft EIS affords the public an opportunity to provide input on the revised plan as they did on the original draft.”
The Supplement to the DEIS was developed with information provided by the BLM, cooperating agencies, and various stakeholders.
The BLM must receive written comments by May 4, 2020, and can be submitted by any of the following methods:
● Website: https://www.blm.gov/programs/planning-and-nepa/plans-development/alaska/willow-eis
● Mail: Willow DEIS Supplement Comments, BLM Alaska State Office, 222 W 7th Ave. #13, Anchorage AK 99513
● Hand Delivered: BLM Alaska State Office, 222 W 7th Ave. #13, Anchorage AK 99513
Persons who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1-800-877-8339 to contact the above individual during normal business hours. The FRS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to leave a message or question with the above individual. You will receive a reply during normal business hours.
Members of BLM Alaska are complying with guidance from the CDC, White House, and state and local authorities to implement social distancing and virtual meeting tools. Communities and organizations interested in teleconferencing can contact Project Manager Rachael Jones at rajones@blm.gov or 907-290-0307.
Find a link to this and all current BLM Alaska projects, and learn how to make a comment in 3 Easy Steps at www.blm.gov/alaska/comment123.
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.