BLM completes analysis for proposed geothermal exploration in Nevada

Nevada
Battle Mountain DO
Mount Lewis FO
Media Contact

BATTLE MOUNTAIN, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management has issued a Finding of No Significant Impact for the proposed Whirlwind Geothermal Exploration Project in Lander County, Nevada, southeast of Battle Mountain. The project would amend existing authorizations to allow new exploration for additional geothermal resources.  

Ormat Nevada, Inc. proposes to construct, operate, and maintain the project, which includes drilling and testing geothermal confirmation wells, and improving or building access roads. Wells proposed as part of the project would be located on the company’s existing federal geothermal leases across 2,101 acres of private and public lands.  

With completion of the environmental analysis, which included public involvement under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Battle Mountain District has determined that the proposed project would not result in significant environmental impacts. For more information, please visit the BLM National NEPA Register.  


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.