BLM Utah continues its quarterly oil and gas lease sales in accordance with the Mineral Leasing Act. These sales occur when eligible lands are available for leasing, utilizing parcels that have been nominated by the public and verified as open through the BLM land use planning process.
Post-lease development procedures
Once parcels are leased, operators must submit exploration or development proposals to the BLM. The agency then conducts environmental analyses and implements measures to mitigate impacts before any work begins.
Benefits of the leasing process
The leasing process allows companies to secure rights to mineral resources prior to investing in geophysical testing or other exploratory techniques used to determine economic feasibility. According to the BLM, less than one percent of all BLM-managed public lands are currently developed for oil and gas resources.
Revenue distribution and state support
Revenue from these activities supports state interests, as half of the royalties from mineral development and leasing are returned to the states.
How to nominate lands for sale
For those interested in nominating lands for a lease sale, the BLM requests that all Expressions of Interest be submitted through the National Fluid Lease Sale System at www.nflss.blm.gov. Parcel information can also be assessed via the NFLSS.
Online auction and registration details
The BLM conducts lease sales online through www.energynet.com. Individuals should refer to each Notice of Competitive Lease Sale (NCLS) for specific instructions on how to register, bid, and spectate at online auctions.
Accessing environmental documentation
Environmental documentation, such as environmental assessments and sale notices, is available at www.eplanning.blm.gov.
