Search Results for agency_names:"Interior Department"

The Bureau of Land Management has proposed to reinstate an oil and gas lease in Lea County, New Mexico, originally held by EOG Y Resources Inc. This action follows the lessee's request for reinstatement and payment of owed rentals since the lease termination. The lease will be reinstated under original conditions, with some changes such as increased rental and royalty rates, and the lessee has agreed to these updated terms along with paying necessary administrative and publication fees.

The National Park Service (NPS) has revised the rules for right-of-way (ROW) permits, which allow the use of lands and waters they manage for infrastructure like power lines and cell towers. These updates make the NPS's process more similar to other Department of the Interior bureaus, introduce pre-application meetings, and require standardized application forms. The new rules also broaden the ways to determine fair market value and highlight the need for construction permitting, address advances in technology, and align with recent laws. These changes aim to protect park resources while making the process clearer for applicants.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) of the Interior Department is seeking public comments on its proposal to renew an information collection related to permits for special types of mining activities. This request is in line with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The collected information will help OSMRE determine if applicants can meet specific performance standards for these mining activities. Public comments will be considered until March 16, 2021, and those interested can submit their opinions via mail or email.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized a rule specifying the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The rule clarifies that the MBTA's prohibitions on actions like pursuing, hunting, capturing, or killing migratory birds apply only to deliberate actions directed at these birds, their nests, or their eggs. It explains that the incidental harm or death of birds resulting from activities not aimed at them is not covered under this law. This decision aims to provide legal clarity and reduce regulatory uncertainty for industries and individuals.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing changes to rules about hunting migratory birds in Alaska, focusing on subsistence harvest regulations. This includes introducing permits for hunters from excluded areas, closing the harvesting of emperor goose eggs statewide due to population concerns, and providing clarity on certain boundaries and regulations to ensure compliance and proper management. The proposals aim to involve Native representatives in managing these rules and ensure the sustainability of bird populations while balancing subsistence needs.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has announced adjustments to the electric power rates for the Mission Valley Power Project (MVP), which will take effect in March 2025 and 2026. Despite an initial proposal for rate changes in 2024, those were delayed and won't be implemented. The public had the opportunity to comment on these changes, but no feedback was received. MVP provides electric services to areas in and around the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana, and the adjustments were made following federal guidelines, including consultation with Tribal governments.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to classify the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. They aim to designate critical habitat areas, particularly in California, to protect these butterflies. Additionally, they plan to allow certain activities, like habitat restoration and conservation efforts, even if they might unintentionally harm some butterflies. Public comments on the proposal will be accepted until March 12, 2025, and informational meetings are scheduled to discuss the details further.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plans to establish a new fee program for using a rental cabin called Tarpons Roost, located on the Continental Divide near Lemhi Pass in Idaho. Starting July 17, 2025, there will be a $75 per night fee to cover maintenance and operational costs, as approved by the BLM Idaho Resource Advisory Council. The plans comply with the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act and have been detailed in a business plan available at the BLM offices. The purpose is to ensure the cabin remains well-maintained and provides quality experiences for visitors.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, part of the Interior Department, has announced a proposal to renew an information collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This collection concerns the bond and insurance requirements for companies involved in surface coal mining and reclamation operations. They are seeking public comments on aspects such as the necessity, timeliness, and accuracy of this collection process. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their feedback by February 4, 2025.

In this notice, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is requesting public comments on renewing an information collection related to its financial assistance programs, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. The agency issues grants and cooperative awards to various entities under different programs, and seeks feedback on whether collecting this information is necessary, accurate, and efficient. The public is encouraged to submit their comments by March 31, 2025, and it’s noted that personal information included in these comments could be made publicly available.