BLM leases 2,777 acres in Wayne National Forest for oil and gas
What happened
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management announced the leasing of 40 out of 41 parcels, totaling 2,777 acres, within Wayne National Forest on July 17. The sale generated over $11 million in revenue, with five out-of-state companies leasing the land to frack for natural gas and oil. The forest has had conventional oil wells since 1990.
From thepostathens.com
Why it matters
The leasing activity adds to a trend where about 22,000 acres of Ohio’s state parks and wildlife areas have opened to oil and gas companies since 2024. This development raises recurring conversations regarding economic benefits versus forest preservation in protected areas.
From thepostathens.com
Who's involved
- OhioThe state where the parcels are located and where development in state parks is being examined.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- OhioSpeculative
The oil/gas sale of parcels within the state's borders might initiate economic activity and potential revenue streams.
- Center for Biological DiversitySpeculative
New lease sales in protected forests could provide grounds for regulatory challenge.
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The entities involved
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Ohio
state of the United States of America
Related events
- An initiative to improve accessibility in the state park system has begun, overseen by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources during Mike DeWine's tenure.
- Roy Klopfenstein represents interests in Ohio energy policy and focuses on energy affordability issues.
- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources manages services in state parks, including South Bass Island.
- A park was reported to be situated within the state of Ohio.