SANTA FE, N.M. — The Bureau of Land Management has announced plans to hold an oil and gas lease sale on Nov. 18, 2026, offering 30 parcels totaling 8,071 acres across New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
The proposed lease sale is part of the federal government’s ongoing process for making public lands available for potential oil and gas development. According to the BLM, the agency completed its initial review of the parcels earlier this year, including a public comment period that ended in August.
A new 30-day public protest period opened Friday and will remain available through Oct. 19, allowing members of the public to submit additional feedback on the proposed lease offerings.
Federal officials emphasized that leasing is only the first step in the development process. Companies that acquire leases must still submit separate applications before drilling can begin. Those applications are subject to additional environmental reviews, public notice requirements, and coordination with state agencies and other stakeholders.
The BLM says all parcels included in the proposed sale carry stipulations intended to protect natural and cultural resources.
The Nov. 18 lease sale will be conducted online through the federal government’s designated auction platform.
