The Marine Minerals Administration (MMA) has published a proposed leasing notice for a potential mineral lease sale in federal waters off the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
The notice outlines the proposed terms and conditions of a potential sale, including the offshore blocks under consideration, information for prospective lessees and proposed lease stipulations.
MMA also completed an environmental assessment examining the potential effects of issuing commercial mineral leases in federal waters near the Northern Mariana Islands.
“America’s national security and economic vitality depend on reliable access to a secure critical minerals supply chain,” acting MMA director Matt Giacona said. “The value of critical minerals remains a strategic asset, and MMA’s efforts lay the foundation for responsible development of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf by combining science-based analysis, rigorous environmental review and a transparent leasing process.”
The proposed leasing notice and environmental assessment are available on MMA’s website. A notice of availability is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on Aug. 18.
MMA said publication of the proposed notice does not guarantee that a lease sale will take place or that exploration or mineral collection will occur. If the agency proceeds with a sale, it will publish a final leasing notice in the Federal Register at least 30 days before the sale date.
