§3150 Alaska mineral resource assessment program

Summary

The Secretary must study the oil, gas, and other mineral chances on all public lands in Alaska to build a bigger database. The studies can use things like side‑looking radar. On public lands that are not national parks, the Secretary may do core and test drilling for geologic information, even if the Wilderness Act would otherwise limit drilling. The Secretary must share information and consult with the State of Alaska and with the Secretary of Energy and other federal agencies. Air access for assessment work must be allowed. The Secretary can make contracts with public or private groups to do the work. This does not apply to the lands listed in section 3141. Core and test drilling: taking subsurface rock samples by drilling to check metal or other mineral values, and not including exploratory oil and gas test wells. Activities in conservation units must follow Secretary‑made rules that prevent lasting harm and fit the unit’s purpose.