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Notice of Availability (NOA) of the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program and Notice of Intent (NOI) to Prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

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Surfrider Foundation filings
52

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Surfrider Foundation filed 52 comments on this docket between Jan 16, 2018 and Jun 29, 2018. 407 other organizations filed here. The comment window closed 3063d ago.

What Surfrider Foundation filed (25+)

Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Josh Heffron, Surfrider foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22257

NO DRILLING NO DRILLING NO DRILLING NO DRILLING

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from M C, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-19895

To whom it may concern- As a lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore, I am against any oil drilling off the coasts of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. I am sure there are many other ways to find / harness energies these days than drilling in the ocean. Thank you, MC Asbury Park, NJ

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Nancy Keating, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22516

We should be switching to readily available alternative sources of energy - we are falling behind China in this aspect of energy security.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Jason Camhi, Surfrider Foundation - NYC Chapter· BOEM-2017-0074-23115

My name is Jason Camhi. I live and work in Manhattan, and I am writing in opposotion fo the 2019-2014 Draft Proposed OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program in my capacity as the Executive at Large of the New York City Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, and also as an individual coastal defender who loves the ocean. The Surfrider Foundation is a volunteer driven, grassroots group that is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's oceans, waves and beaches. We are coastal defenders who passionately believe in protecting what we love. The New York City Chapter has over 600 members who live throughout the 5 boroughs of the City and the northern suburbs. It was just 2 years ago that the Obama administration enacted a 5 year plan that protected the Atlantic, Pacific, Eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaska from new offshore drilling activity. This victory was unfortunately short-lived, and now our oceans are under direct threat from the current occupant of the Oval Office. The new proposed 5 year drilling proposal opens over 90% of the Outer Continental Shelf to new oil and gas exploration and drilling, and puts our nation's coastal communities, beaches, surf breaks, and marine ecosystems at risk of catastrophic oil spills, as well as other significant risks. We must once again stand together and fight these new threats. One of the initial steps of oil and gas exploration is seismic testing. During this process ships use 'airgun arrays' to repeatedly emit high-decibel sounds to map the seafloor. The sounds can damage or kill marine life, including dolphins and whales that rely on their own use of sound to find both food and mates in the vast oceans. Survey activities can also disrupt long established migratory patterns, which forces marine life to try and survive in less suitable habitats. Once the surveys have been performed the process becomes even more dangerous and destructive with the actual drilling, extraction and processing of oil, each of which has significant risks associated with it. Drilling an oil well requires thousands of gallons of 'drilling mud' to lubricate drill bits and maintain well pressure. These 'muds' typically include toxins such as benzene and arsenic. Mud discharges are a common occurrence, which introduces these toxins into the food chain and allows them to bioaccumulate as they make their way up it. And of course as we all saw with the Deepwater Horizon disaster, there is always the chance of a catastrophic failure during the drilling process. In that one incident roughly 4.9 million barrels of oil, almost 200 million gallons, was released directly into the ocean just 40 miles off our coastline. The environmental devastation caused by BP's gross negligence is well known and well documented. Every single new offshore well is another potential Deepwater Horizon. After drilling each completed well represents a potential environmental disaster for as long as it continues to operate. The extraction process creates ongoing air and noise pollution that further damages the marine ecosystem, and of course there is the ever present danger of spills. Each year an estimated 880,000 gallons of oil is released into the ocean from US drilling operations, and since 1969 there have been at least 44 spills of over 10,000 barrels in our nation's waterways. The environmental impacts of expanded offshore drilling don't end at the shoreline, as transportation and processing requirements create air, water and land pollution in communities throughout the country. New offshore drilling activities would only increase these environmental risks and impacts, and the negative consequences of the Trump administration's 5 year plan also go beyond those. The tourism, recreation and fishing industries, all huge drivers of coastal communities' economies, are likely to suffer if the Trump administration's plan is approved. Fisheries are likely to be adversely impacted by new exploration and drilling activities, and offshore r…

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Greg Armer, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22876

TO: Kelly Hammerle National Program Manager Bureau of Ocean Energy Management RE: Proposed Drilling The expansion of offshore oil drilling in the Atlantic, Pacific, Eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Arctic Ocean would cause enormous and unnecessary negative impacts to our nation's marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and vital recreation and tourism industries. In an era when we have 95% of the worlds best scientists providing clear evidence of the impact of Global Warming we should be asking our industries and government to invest in alternative means to power the planet. There is clear momentum in the world around that movement and the U.S. should be a leader, not a lazy, head-in-the-sand bystander. Let's step up and take some positive, environment and economic, action.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Carol Jones, Surfrider Foundation South Jersey Chapter· BOEM-2017-0074-22644

Offshore drilling and seismic testing are harmful to cetaceans, fish, seabirds, and beaches. Oil spills know no political boundaries and can endanger even areas distant from the point of origin. Please: NO Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Sharon Amann, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-26467

In coastal states like NJ, where tourism is a primary source of income, clean beaches and waters, abundant wildlife and watersheds depend on clean waters - all of which would be compromised by the expansion of offshore drilling. As the Surfrider Foundation has expressed in their letter to you, hundreds of spills have occurred from OCS platforms & pipelines spilling millions of gallons of gas onto US beaches - even though technology has improved. The disastrous results of past oil spills on sea life and adjacent beaches is well documented in less-populated states like Alaska, Texas, and Florida's west coast, but it's economic impact on a very highly populated state like NJ - which depends on adjacent states for much of it's tourism - has not been adequately studied or documented. Moreover, your report has not convinced me that OCS has adequately explored factors such as the increasing frequency and severity of storms off the coast, and the unpredictability of human involvement and management of technology, platforms and pipelines associated with off shore oil exploration and drilling. Many academic studies conducted by universities -as well as studies by respected environmental protection groups- have evidenced that climate-warming, and activities such as armed services exercises/drills in coastal waters have seriously disrupted the behavior and reproductive patterns of certain sea mammals. The role of off-shore drilling and exploration as a factor in the cumulative impact on wildlife of disruptive human activity on the NJ shore has yet to be studied and determined.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from sam clemmons, Heal the Bay, California Coastkeeper Alliance & Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-26546

We all know oil drilling leads to strong possibilities of contamination of wherever it is being done. Dont eliminate regulations and open up drilling in California just because y'all are mad at them.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from kevin thornton, Surfrider foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22554

Why do we need more oil? Please stop killing us and our wildlife for profits.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Walt Bell, Surfrider foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-26048

We cannot have offshore oil drilling off the coast of Virginia or anywhere on the East Coast for that matter here in Virginia Beach our cup economy relies upon the oceanfront businesses in the beach and ocean itself. Imagine if we had a huge oil spill like happened in the golf of Mexico on the Deepwater Horizon right off the coast of Virginia beach. It would be catastrophic! Say no to trumps insane and not well thought out agenda and let's focus on cleaner energy.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Joan Timpany, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22847

Oil exploration air guns blasting high decibel explosives to map sea floor kills many forms of marine life and/or deafens both adults and juveniles. It disrupts migratory patters and creates huge problems with navigating, avoiding predators and locating prey. Disturbance of the sea bed kills additional sea life populations. Toxic muds from drilling/processing oil (in an unregulated way as is the current situation) creates air and water pollution. Additionally oil rigs and refineries in California produce 40% of industrial emissions and 10% of total greenhouse gases. Each year 880,000 gallons of oil are released into the ocean from US oil drilling operations. I have witnessed the horrendous results of spills on the west coast including the Santa Barbara incident as well as the catastrophic Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska. This type of incident must not be allowed to happen again. STOP Trump's all-out assault on our priceless and irreplaceable coastlines, marine sanctuaries and open oceans. America CANNOT drill our way out of oil consumption problems - we need to turn to conservation and greener ways of providing fuel, heat and electricity. I join the Surfrider Foundation in calling for a halt to offshore drilling.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Craig Stewart, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-20268

Hello, I would like to voice my opposition to the proposed new offshore drilling and lease sales in California.This would have a negative impact on the ocean, coasts, plants, animals, and people in my community on the Orange County coast.Being a surfer in a large surfing community this could directly impact my health and many other beach going family's as well as the financial health of coastal communities. Thank-you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Craig Stewart . .

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Peter Stack, Surfrider Foundation, Central LI Chapt· BOEM-2017-0074-25227

Insane, it would be, to foster off-shore drilling for oil/gas here, which would certainly risk/reduce the thriving multimillion dollar economy of tourism this northeast New England region has so consistently generated.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from ANDREW ISODA, SURFRIDER FOUNDATION MAU'I· BOEM-2017-0074-22522

I oppose new offshore oil drilling, including lease sales in Hawai'i and all coastal areas of the USA. Impact drilling would have on the ocean, coasts, plants, animals, and people in your community would be dangerous and unsightly. Mycommunity uses the ocean as the main part of life. It is our main subsistence and has been for generations, particularly to the indigenous Hawai'ians. Please leave our mother ocean alone. Use alternative sources instead.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from Stephen McCabe, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-25291

After finally getting the water cleaned up offshore drilling is a step backwards.

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from edward walker, SurfRider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22858

Dear Regulators: We all no the disastrous effects of offshore drilling to sea life and quality of our oceans; the Valez, Deepwater Horizon, and all the other man-made errors that do not make headlines. Our planet has collected man's waste for centuries and the effects have added up; getting into our food sources and killing our coral reefs. We might already be too late saving the food chain and ultimately destroying any future for our children and children's children. Fossil Fuels are not the answer. We are presently an exporter and the largest producer of oil and gas. Why don't we pay attention and support new, clean technology, like we have in the past. The future of this planet and the USA lies in your vote. Just because this administration would like to rape the planet of its resources and line the pockets of the already wealthy with more $ is not a rational reason to further the pain. Please do not allow this unnecessary leasing program to begin...For our childrens sake! Edward Walker

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Jun 29, 2018· Comment from natasha williamson, surfrider foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-22841

attached is the surfrider foundation fact sheet as support for why offshore drilling should not be allowed.

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Jun 28, 2018· Comment from Tim Harrison, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-17244

The decision to allow drilling off of our Atlantic coastline is imbecilic. Companies don't plan to have oil spill accidents. That's why they are called accidents. The price for these inevitable mishaps is too steep. We must not allow drilling off of our coastline.

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Jun 28, 2018· Comment from Dennis Murphy, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-17094

DO NOT Allow Off Shore Drilling in our Outer Continental Shelf. I Personally do not want to be exposed to any Oil leaks, rips, or Gas spills in our shores. Our Shorelines are our lives and recreation and joy and easily harmed by this proposal as are the many native species of Fish and sea creatures calling it home. I am extremely against any proposal that will ruin our coastal and have possible damage to our environment. PLEASE PROTECT OUR SHORELINES, PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS for our Community and Children's future enjoyment by Voting NO against this draft proposal. The Beaches have been one of my greatest joys in life growing up and living in New York & New Jersey for the last 50 years and to see reckless proposals that will eventually damage the environment and ruin people & native animals quality of life would be the saddest event I could imagine.

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Jun 28, 2018· Comment from Thomas Hogan, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-17035

I am writing on behalf of my fellow residents and home owners in the coastal communities of New Jersey, and to express strong opposition to BOEM's Draft Proposed 2019-2024 OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program. I believe the vast majority of the citizens agree that our beach communities depend on clean beaches and waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic views. These would be drastically compromised by any expansion of offshore drilling on our coasts. I ask that you protect the homeowners and vacationers of this special coastline, and those up and down the east coast from an expansion of oil and gas exploration. Sincerely, Thomas Hogan

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Jun 28, 2018· Comment from Blake Lyle, Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-14515

I do NOT support this proposal. As I proud resident of Florida, I ask that you listen to the facts and the citizens of the United States and do not open our oceans for offshore drilling. Oil Spills Are Inevitable: In 2014 there were 105 fires on drilling facilities located in the Gulf and seven "losses of well control" which was the beginning stage of what occurred during the BP oil spill. Companies are also pushing their equipment to be used in deeper waters and to drill farther down than ever before. Drilling, by nature, is a risky business and the industry takes huge gambles at the expense of coastal citizens and wildlife. Seismic Testing Harms and Kills Marine Life: Seismic airguns are used to find oil and gas deep underneath the ocean floor. These blasts are repeated every ten seconds, 24 hours a day, for days and weeks at a time. Seismic airgun testing currently being proposed in the Atlantic could injure 138,000 whales and dolphins and disturb millions more, according to government estimates. No one comes to Florida to see dead dolphins. Offshore Drilling Threatens Our Economy: In Florida, our environment is our economy. Tourism amounted to $108.8 billion throughout the state in 2015. And when an oil spill occurs, as in the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon disaster, not only are tourist destinations affected, but the entire coastal economy suffers. Along the Gulf Coast, sections of coastline that never saw oil wash up on shore were nonetheless affected by public perception of the Gulf states as contaminated. Florida's Elected Leaders Overwhelmingly Oppose Drilling Off Our Coast: Not only does he oppose it, but Gov. Scott was given assurances by Secretary Ryan Zinke that Florida was "off the table" when it comes to new drilling, which the administration has since walked back. The safety and livelihoods of Florida families' are too important to be wrapped up in political gamesmanship. Florida's Cities & Counties Oppose Drilling Off Our Coast: 50 municipalities in Florida have passed resolutions opposing offshore drilling and/or exploration and the list continues to grow. More than 41,000 East Coast businesses and 500,000 fishing families have also joined this overwhelming chorus of voices against expanded offshore drilling. The draft plan in its current state disregards this widespread opposition. Don't Put The Interests Of Big Oil Before The People: This proposed plan places the interests of the oil and gas industry above coastal communities that would be most impacted by offshore drilling. Radically expanded offshore drilling is a dangerous and backward policy direction. Advancing clean and renewable energy will allow future generations to enjoy unlimited supplies of American-made, pollution-free energy. I strongly OPPOSE this draft plan and urge you to remove all new proposed lease sales in the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans, as well as the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. Please remove proposed new lease sale areas from consideration in the Draft Proposed Program. Protect our coast and prevent the expansion of offshore drilling. Remember, you were elected to work for US!

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Jun 27, 2018· Comment Campaign from Sierra Club New Hampshire, Surfrider Foundation, League of Conservation Voters (31 submissions)· BOEM-2017-0074-14043

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

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Jun 27, 2018· Comment Campaign from Surfrider Foundation (7 submissions)· BOEM-2017-0074-14049

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

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Jun 27, 2018· Comment Campaign from Surfrider Foundation (54 submissions)· BOEM-2017-0074-14052

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

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Jun 26, 2018· Comment from Douglas Snyder , Surfrider Foundation· BOEM-2017-0074-13057

I am appalled by President Trump's decision to open our coastal waters for offshore drilling. This directly threatens the health and safety of coastal cities and towns and is the opposite of what we should be doing to fight climate change.

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Abstract

Notice of Availability (NOA) of the 2019-2024 Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program and Notice of Intent (NOI) to Prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

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