There will be no oil or gas leases on 44,720 acres of the Bridger-Teton National Forest according to a decision released by the Forest Service Tuesday. This resulting in praise from environmentalists and criticism from Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wy) who said the decision was based on “everything but jobs, the economy, energy independence and national security.”
This land was originally allocated for leasing in 1990, and the BLM offered leases in 2005 and 2006. However, this decision was appealed by conservation groups claiming the BLM had used outdated information in justifying the lease sales.
“After considering all the alternatives, and the environmental impacts associated with each, I have determined this is the best course of action,” Bridger-Toton National Forest supervisory Jacque Buchanan said. “No single factor led me to this decision. Rather, it was the combination of the sensitivity and values of the area, the magnitude of other activities currently underway or planned with potentially cumulative impacts, and the concerns of citizens, organizations and other agencies.”
One of the reasons for this decision was the Canada Lynx. Wyoming’s new Governor Matt Meade said “There is so little documentation and understanding of that species. To make decisions without a complete picture of its habitat creates a lot of uncertainty not only for energy companies but other users of the public’s land.” Other reasons cited for the decision included the Mule deer, air quality, and recreation opportunities in the area.
Energy companies that had bid on leases in the area aren’t going to come out empty handed either. The Forest Service is going to compensate them for bids and payments on the leases.
Existing wells will remain operating in the area. There are currently 9,794 wells and 10,000 proposed wells in Sublette County.
i believe that this could be a destructive decision.
Actually I take that back, this would not be destructive. it would be magical.
Wait nevermind i take what i took back back. Kaylee OUT.
i’m crazy.