BLM seeks input on proposed oil and gas management updates in central coast region

MARINA, Calif. - The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on proposed management updates for oil and gas leasing and development on public lands in Alameda, Contra Costa, Monterey, San Benito, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz counties, and portions of Fresno, Merced, and San Joaquin counties.

The effort aligns with Secretary's Order 3418, which supports President Trump's call for "Unleashing American Energy," aimed at increasing energy exploration and production on federal lands in an affordable and reliable manner. The order emphasizes development of oil, gas, coal, strategic minerals, and alternative energy sources on public lands.

The BLM will host a virtual public meeting via Zoom from 5-6:30 p.m. PT on Jan. 29, 2026, to discuss the draft plan. Please register to participate. Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the 'Participate Now' option. The comment period will close March 6, 2026.

The BLM Central Coast Field Office administers approximately 284,000 acres public land and an additional 509,000 acres of federal mineral estate in central California. California's federal production totals average about 8-10% of California's total oil and natural gas production.