Anchorage, AK

The Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management (BOEM) opened and read the bids this morning for Cook Inlet federal offshore oil and gas lease sale #258.  After offering close to one million acres for lease, there was only one bid.  Hillcorp Alaska LLC bid $63,983 for one block.

Nicole Whittington-Evans, Defenders of Wildlife Alaska Program Director, released the following statement regarding the federal Cook Inlet offshore oil and gas lease sale:

"The 1970s heyday of Cook Inlet oil and gas development is long behind us as illustrated, once again, with today’s lackluster showing of only one bid by one company for offered federal offshore leases. Policy for Cook Inlet waters needs to keep pace with modern reality and focus on addressing the biodiversity and climate crises we face. The federal government must take aggressive measures to reduce disturbances and restore critically endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales, which have declined by 75%. And it must pivot to clean energy technologies and stop trying to double down on fossil fuel projects that undermine our climate goals."   

Image
Cook Inlet beluga whale
Paul Wade/NOAA Fisheries

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

Senior Vice President, External Affairs
lsheehan@defenders.org
(202) 772-3244

News

Image
2024.05.15 - Stream running through forest in Pisgah National Forest - NC - WS - Ben Prater-Defenders of Wildlife.JPG

USDA Moves to Repeal Roadless Rule, Reigniting Fight for Public Lands

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced its formal repeal of the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a rule that for 25 years has protected millions
Image
gray wolf
Denver, CO

Colorado Senator Attempts to Block Wolf Reintroduction in Special Session

Colorado State Senator Dylan Roberts introduced legislation today in an attempt to halt the state’s historic gray wolf reintroduction program, which has already seen remarkable