BLM evaluating oil and gas leasing proposals for Garfield, Mesa counties
Organization
Media Contact:
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on a proposal to offer 18,349 acres in Garfield and Mesa counties in the Nov. 10, 2016 competitive oil and gas lease sale.
The BLM is considering 20 parcels near DeBeque and four small parcels near Collbran.
Before beginning an environmental assessment on the proposal, the BLM wants to hear from the public about any issues and concerns they feel should be considered as it evaluates leasing these parcels. The EA itself will be released for public review and comment in May.
“The most effective comments will address issues and concerns specific to these parcels being considered,” said BLM Northwest Colorado District Manager Joe Meyer.
The BLM recently completed new Resource Management Plans for these areas that include updated restrictions for oil and gas leasing designed to protect natural resources.
Maps and lease stipulations are available for review at http://on.doi.gov/1Vuv2el.
Comments during this first public comment period need to be received by March 10, 2016. They should be e-mailed toblm_co_nwdist_public_comments@blm.gov or mailed to the BLM Northwest Colorado District Office, Attn: November Lease Sale, 2815 H Road, Grand Junction, CO 81506.
The State of Colorado receives 49 percent of the proceeds from each mineral lease sale and from mineral royalties, with the remainder going to the U.S. government. In Fiscal Year 2015, Colorado received about $247 million from royalties, rentals and bonus bid payments for all federal minerals, including oil and gas. Statewide, more than 22,900 jobs are tied to mineral and energy development on public lands.
Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
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.