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BOEM Evaluates Industry Interest in Offshore Virginia Mineral Leasing

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The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management announced Monday that it will seek public input on potential offshore mineral leasing areas near Virginia as part of an early planning process.

BOEM said the request will gather feedback from industry, government agencies, tribal nations, and the public to assess interest in mineral resources located on the US Outer Continental Shelf offshore Virginia.

The effort supports the Trump administration's goal of increasing domestic mineral production and reducing dependence on imported supplies used in manufacturing, defense, and emerging technologies.

"Virginia's offshore mineral resources present a pathway to lessen foreign dependence and reinforce America's strategic position by establishing secure domestic supply chains," BOEM Acting Director Matt Giacona said.

BOEM said the initiative focuses on early-stage exploration activities that are temporary in nature and do not require permanent structures. The agency added that such work is similar in scope to offshore surveys conducted for beach nourishment projects.

The request does not represent a decision to hold a lease sale. If BOEM determines sufficient interest exists, it could move forward with additional planning, including a proposed leasing notice at least 60 days before a final leasing notice and a final notice at least 30 days before any competitive lease sale.

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