DENVER – More than 35000 National Wildlife Federation supporters and members of the public signed a letter to the Bureau of Land Management in strong support of the agency’s proposed oil and gas reforms. The letter applauded the rule’s increased bonding rates, ensuring that oil and gas companies pay for the cleanup of public lands after development. 

“Increasing bonding rates for oil and gas companies will ensure that industry – and not the American taxpayer – is responsible for cleaning up the toxic messes left behind after drilling. The proposed rule also prioritizes oil and gas development in areas with high potential for recovery but limited impact on wildlife, recreation, and important cultural resources,” said Bailey Brennan, public lands attorney at the National Wildlife Federation. “Taken as a whole, these long-overdue reforms will benefit wildlife and all who depend on our public lands. We hope the administration will swiftly finalize this rule.”

“For far too long, abandoned oil and gas wells have leaked toxins into the air and water, threatening the health of wildlife and people alike. Increasing bonding rates will ensure that oil and gas companies are required to clean up these wells so that our lands can flourish for future generations,” said Camilla Simon, executive director of Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO).  “As we are about to observe National Public Lands Day, it is only fitting that we are also celebrating reforms that are designed to ensure the long-term health of our public lands and waters.” 
The letter was sent to the agency as part of a public comment period for a rule that would also increase rental rates for development, end noncompetitive leasing, and discourage leasing near important wildlife habitat, significant cultural areas, or on lands that have little potential for oil and gas development.