Federal Land Use

Recent concerns over energy supply and pricing have led some to look increasingly to federal lands as a potential energy source. This book explains the legal framework for energy leasing and permitting for onshore lands subject to the control of the federal government. The book first reviews the laws and regulations affecting leasing of federal lands for exploration and production of oil, natural gas, and coal, as well as the permits that lessees must obtain in order to explore for and produce these resources. It then continues by addressing existing laws and regulations that govern the use of federal lands for renewable energy projects, including geothermal, wind, and solar energy. The book also discusses recreation on federal lands, grazing fees, and commercial filming and photography on federal lands.