Management of Non-Federal Oil and Gas Rights

Résumé

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are finalizing regulations governing the exercise of non-Federal oil and gas rights outside of Alaska in order to improve our ability to protect refuge resources, visitors, and the general public's health and safety from potential impacts associated with non-Federal oil and gas operations located within refuges. The exercise of non-Federal oil and gas rights refers to oil and gas activities associated with any private, State, or tribally owned mineral interest where the surface estate above such rights is administered by the Service as part of the Refuge System. The existing non-Federal oil and gas regulations have remained unchanged for more than 50 years and provide only vague guidance to staff and operators. This rule will make the regulations more consistent with existing laws, policies, and industry practices. It is designed to provide regulatory clarity and guidance to oil and gas operators and refuge staff, provide a simple process for compliance, incorporate technological improvements in exploration and drilling technology, and ensure that non-Federal oil and gas operations are conducted in a manner that avoids or minimizes