BLM unable to adequately protect land, report says

[tex-wyo-dem]

The report indicated that nationwide, drilling permits approved by BLM more than tripled from 1,803 in fiscal year 1999 to 6,399 in fiscal year 2004.

At the same time, the oil and gas management budget rose just 64 percent and staffing levels by only 21 percent, so staff is having to devote increased time to processing drilling permits and less to environmental inspections.

"This administration appears to have lost its sense of balance between granting drilling permits to the oil and gas industry and protecting the natural wonder of the environment," Lieberman responded.

"Striking the right balance is BLM's statutory responsibility. Irresponsible stewardship of public lands while the oil and gas industry profits is not an acceptable balance."

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/state/article/0,1299,DRMN_21_4034892,00.html