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To:
Donna Wixon & Stephanie Kuhns
Bureau of Land Management, Arctic District Office
222 University Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
dwixon@blm.gov
skuhns@blm.gov

Cc:
Keven Pendergast, Alaska State Director, BLM
Seth Deam, Regional Solicitor, BLM Alaska Region
Erika Reed, Associate State Director, BLM Alaska

Re: Public Comment on Draft EA for ConocoPhillips Seismic Exploration, Drilling, and Plugging Program (DOI-BLM-AK-R000-2026-0002-EA)

Dear Ms. Wixon and Ms. Kuhns,

I am writing to express deep concern regarding the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for ConocoPhillips Alaska Inc.’s proposed winter exploration program in the National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska (NPR-A). This program includes seismic exploration, drilling of new wells, and plugging of existing wells across 467 square miles—an area of immense ecological and cultural significance.

I respectfully urge BLM to:

  1. Extend the public comment period to at least 30 days, until December 10, 2025. The current seven-day window, posted just before a federal holiday, does not provide a meaningful opportunity for public engagement, especially for impacted communities in Nuiqsut and Anaktuvuk Pass whose meetings fall after the comment deadline.

  2. Release all relevant documents, including the statement of adverse effect referenced in the Draft EA. Without access to this document, the public cannot fully assess the potential impacts to the Teshekpuk Lake and Colville River Special Areas—regions that support vital caribou, migratory bird, and subsistence ecosystems.

  3. Honor the intent of 43 CFR § 2361.40, which requires meaningful public participation. A rushed process undermines trust and violates the spirit of transparency and stewardship that should guide federal decision-making in the Arctic.

The scale and speed of this proposed program raise serious concerns about cumulative impacts, climate resilience, and Indigenous rights. I urge BLM to prioritize ecological integrity and community input over expediency.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and to a more inclusive and transparent process.

Sincerely,
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