43 C.F.R. Subpart 3250—Exploration Operations—General
Title 43 - Public Lands: Interior
(a) The exploration operations regulations, contained in 43 CFR subparts 3250 through 3256, apply to geothermal exploration operations: (1) On BLM-administered public lands, whether or not they are leased for geothermal resources; and (2) On lands whose surface is managed by another Federal agency, where BLM has leased the subsurface geothermal resources and the lease operator will conduct exploration. In this case, we will consult with the surface managing agency regarding surface use and reclamation requirements before we approve the exploration permit. (b) These regulations do not apply to: (1) Unleased land administered by another Federal agency; (2) Unleased geothermal resources whose surface land is managed by another Federal agency; (3) Privately owned land; or (4) Casual use activities. (a) You may propose any activity fitting the definition of “exploration operations” in 43 CFR 3200.1. Submit Form 3200–9, Notice of Intent to Conduct Geothermal Resource Exploration Operations, together with the information required under 43 CFR 3251.12, and BLM will review your proposal. (b) The exploration operations regulations do not address drilling wells intended for production or injection, which are covered in subpart 3260 of this part, or geothermal resources utilization, which is covered in subpart 3270 of this part. Your exploration operations must: (a) Meet all operational and environmental standards; (b) Protect public health, safety and property; (c) Prevent unnecessary impacts to surface and subsurface resources; and; (d) Be conducted in a manner consistent with the principles of multiple use; and (e) Comply with the requirements of 43 CFR 3200.4. (a) Geothermal resource operational orders, for detailed requirements that apply nationwide; (b) Notices to lessees, for detailed requirements on a statewide or regional basis; (c) Other orders and instructions specific to a field or area; (d) Permit conditions of approval; and (e) Verbal orders which will be confirmed in writing.
Title 43: Public Lands: Interior
PART 3200—GEOTHERMAL RESOURCE LEASING
Subpart 3250—Exploration Operations—General
§ 3250.10 When do the exploration operations regulations apply?
§ 3250.11 What types of operations may I propose when I send BLM my exploration permit application?
§ 3250.12 What general standards apply to my exploration operations?
§ 3250.13 What orders or instructions may BLM issue me?
