Biological Opinion on Oil and Gas Leasing and Exploration Activities in the U.S. Beaufort and Chukchi Seas, Alaska
April 02, 2013
Biological opinion on oil and gas leasing and exploration activities within the U.S. Beaufort and Chukchi Seas from March 2013 to March 2027, as well as potential actions associated with existing leases in the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas.
This opinion considers the effects of the authorization of oil and gas leasing and exploration activities by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), within the U.S. Beaufort and Chukchi Seas over a 14-year period beginning March 2013 and ending in March 2027 on the:
- endangered bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus)
- endangered fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus)
- endangered humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
- endangered right whale (Eubalaena japonica)
- endangered western Steller sea lion (Eumatopias jubatus) distinct population segment
- threatened Arctic subspecies of ringed seal (Phoca hispida hispida)
- threatened Beringia DPS of bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus barbatus)
- the designated critical habitats for North Pacific Right whale and Steller sea lion
BOEM and BSEE are the federal action agencies that issue oil and gas leases and authorize exploration activities, and BSEE is responsible for ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of the lease and exploration activities.
Action Agencies: Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE)
NMFS Consultation Number: FIAKR/2011/0647