BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The Federal Bureau of Land Management has completed sales of oilfields right here in Kern County. Seven parcels of land totaling 4,133 acres were sold in the county for oil drilling and fracking.
The environmental analysis estimates that, based on development trends on new leases, up to 10 new wells could be developed across all seven parcels. More details about this lease sale in California are available online at https://go.usa.gov/xGxKz.
The BLM estimates the oil and gas industry generates approximately 3,500 jobs and $200 million in economic benefit annually within the Bakersfield Field Office planning area.
Nearly 50% of royalties and revenue from this sale will go to the state of California where it supports state budgets, public education, infrastructure improvements and other state-determined priorities, according to the BLM. The remaining 50% is paid to the U.S. Treasury.
The Center for Biological Diversity voiced its concern about the sale amid ongoing legal disputes. The organization's director said they look forward to working with President-Elect Joe Biden to revoke the "illegal leases and protecting the climate by banning new oil and gas leasing on federal lands."
