Southcentral exploration licenses possible

The state is looking at potential areas for exploration licensing in Southcentral Alaska. The director of the Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Oil and Gas has issued a preliminary written determination that an area of Southcentral Alaska outside the Cook Inlet areawide lease sale is available for oil and gas exploration licensing.

The determination, issued Feb. 2, covers state lands north of Paxson, west of Talkeetna, east of McCarthy and south of Yakutat. Comments on the preliminary determination are due by March 11.

The division said the state land in this area has unknown oil and gas potential and there is limited access to existing oil and gas infrastructure in much of the region.

While oil and gas exploration has occurred in this area in the past, the division said technological advancements may facilitate more effective and efficient exploration.

Exploration licenses require that any data collected be provided to the state, the division said, so the state would benefit from any geological and geophysical data that might result from potential exploration of the area under a license.

If following a final determination the division receives an exploration license proposal within the area, the division director would then look at the specific area proposed and there would be public notice and a best interest finding process.

- Petroleum News