Interior Department’s Virtual Forum Features Robust Discussion on Oil and Gas Program

Date: Friday, March 26, 2021
Contact: Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior yesterday hosted a virtual forum where Interior leadership and external stakeholders discussed oil and gas development on public lands and waters. A video recording of the forum can be accessed on Interior’s YouTube channel.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland delivered opening remarks, saying, "In order to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen our nation’s economy, we must manage our lands, waters, and resources not just across fiscal years, but across generations.” Secretary Haaland also noted that, in addition to the public forum, Interior is “continuing to meet with Governors on both sides of the aisle, hearing from Congress, and engaging in consultation with Tribal Nations” regarding the oil and gas leasing program.

Interior leadership – including Laura Daniel-Davis, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Land and Minerals Management; Nada Culver, representing the Bureau of Land Management; and Amanda Lefton, representing the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management  – also discussed Interior’s role in the offshore and onshore oil and gas programs.

The forum featured presentations from, and Q&A with, stakeholders representing environmental justice and frontline communities, academia, oil and gas industry trade associations, Indigenous organizations, conservation organizations, and labor groups.

The information gathered at the forum will help inform an interim report from the Department that will be completed in early summer. The report will include initial findings on the state of the federal conventional energy programs, as well as outline next steps and recommendations for the Department and Congress to improve stewardship of public lands and waters, create jobs, and build a just and equitable energy future.

Members of the public can submit additional information through April 15 to inform Interior’s interim report at energyreview@ios.doi.gov. 

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