Bipolar Interior Dept. Now Denies Drilling Freeze in Shallow Gulf Waters
Earlier today, environmental reporters were surprised to learn that, in a reversal, the Interior Department had extended its offshore drilling freeze to shallow
Jul 31, 2020352K Shares8.8M Views
Earlier today, environmental reporters were surprisedto learn that, in a reversal, the Interior Department had extended its offshore drilling freeze to shallow waters in the Gulf of Mexico. According to The Washington Post, Michael J. Saucier of the Minerals Management Service, a branch of the Interior Department, wrote to one company seeking a drilling permit that “until further notice we have been informed not to approve or allow any drilling no matter the water depth” — just three days after he told the same company that the administration’s moratorium on offshore drilling wouldn’t apply to waters under 500 feet in depth.
Seems he was right the first time. An Interior Department spokesman is now telling the Post that “shallow water drilling may continue as long as oil and gas operations satisfy the environmental and safety requirements Secretary Salazar outlined in his report to the President and have exploration plans that meet those requirements. There is no moratorium on shallow water drilling.”
For opponents of offshore drilling in the wake of the Gulf oil spill, it was nice while it lasted.
Hajra Shannon
Reviewer
Hajra Shannona is a highly experienced journalist with over 9 years of expertise in news writing, investigative reporting, and political analysis.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Columbia University and has contributed to reputable publications focusing on global affairs, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
Hajra's authoritative voice and trustworthy reporting reflect her commitment to delivering insightful news content.
Beyond journalism, she enjoys exploring new cultures through travel and pursuing outdoor photography
Latest Articles
Popular Articles