BLM extends comment period on environmental analysis for oil and gas leasing in Ohio

MILWAUKEE, Wisc. — In response to several requests, the Bureau of Land Management is providing more time for the public to provide input on a draft supplemental environmental assessment evaluating possible impacts from potential oil and gas leasing within the Wayne National Forest in southeastern Ohio. BLM will accept comments until May 17, 2024.

“Although the BLM had already provided an extended 45-day comment period, we added the maximum extension possible for 10 extra days to allow for additional time to provide feedback,” said BLM Northeastern States District Manager Pamela Mathis. “Comments that present specific or missing items are particularly valuable to us as we strive to have the best possible environmental analysis.”

This evaluation builds on an environmental assessment of potential leasing impacts completed in 2016. In 2020, a federal district court found the 2016 analysis needed to further consider the specific impacts of using hydraulic fracturing techniques on federally protected species, water resources, air quality, and surface resources.

The environmental review analyzes impacts from potential oil and gas leasing on approximately 40,000 acres beneath National Forest System lands on Monroe, Noble, and Washington counties. The subsurface parcels have either been leased for oil and gas development or have the potential for future leasing and development.

To view the draft supplemental environmental assessment and supporting documents and learn how to provide comments, visit the BLM National NEPA Register.

Submitted by the Bureau of Land Management