September 7, 2006
Contact: Andrew Tkach,
307-347-5251

Public Input Sought on Proposed Geophysical Project

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Worland Field Office is seeking public comment as part of its analysis of a geophysical exploration proposal located near Thermopolis, Wyo.

Nance Petroleum has filed a Notice of Intent with the BLM to conduct three-dimensional geophysical exploration at Murphy Dome, 20 miles east of Thermopolis, at T. 43 N., R. 91 and 92 W. The project area covers 13.6-square-miles, and is comprised of approximately 58 percent public lands, 11 percent state lands, and 31 percent private property. The exploration would use vibroseis (ground vibration) methodology. Operations would begin upon approval of the proposal, and take 15-20 days to complete.

Because the proposal involves publicly owned land, the public is encouraged to participate in the process to help identify the level of analysis needed, ideas to ensure the completeness of the analysis, alternatives to the proposal, and mitigation opportunities. Project documents and information are available for review at: www.wy.blm.gov/nepa/wfodocs/murphydome. Comments will be accepted through Sept. 30, 2006.

The Murphy Dome Oil Field was discovered in 1949. To date 78 wells have been drilled, of which 33 are currently producing.

-BLM-