Bennet Statement on BLM's Finalized Plan for Oil Shale Development in Colorado

Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement in response to the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) announcement that it finalized its plan to support research and development of oil shale technologies on Colorado’s public lands.

“Colorado enjoys an abundance of energy resources that, when developed responsibly, can help us diversify our energy portfolio. The Interior Department’s finalized plan for oil shale marks a continued commitment to research and development of new technologies.

“Our state is well aware of what can happen if we rush into oil shale development. This plan will help ensure that any future commercial development of oil shale in Colorado will be done in a way that protects the environment and the surrounding communities. Any development of energy resources must consider the importance of our precious water resources, which are critical to farmers, ranchers, and our state’s economy.”

Under the final plan, the BLM-managed lands will be available for research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) leases of oil shale resources. Eligible companies could convert to a commercial lease after satisfying the conditions of the RD&D lease and meeting basic due diligence requirements and clean air and water requirements.  The plan issued today will amend ten of the BLM’s land use plans. More information on BLM’s announcement can be found here.