Action Needed to Oppose Offshore Drilling, Seismic Testing, and Leasing

Since 1989, the Town of Kill Devil Hills Board of Commissioners has stated its strong opposition to offshore drilling, seismic testing, and leasing.

Recently, the Department of the Interior announced the start of its process to develop a new Five-Year Plan for offshore oil and gas lease sales on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, and North Carolina is included in the planning area.

Our coastal economy, environment, and way of life are at risk. Our economy thrives with the tourism and recreation sector employing 85% of its marine economy, contributing 56% to the overall marine GDP of $4 billion. An oil spill would devastate this vital sector, jeopardizing jobs and revenue while harming the pristine marine ecosystem that attracts visitors.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is preparing the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program, which will replace the current 2024–2029 plan. The BOEM is requesting public comments on whether, where, and how offshore oil and gas drilling should proceed. Please consider joining the KDH Board in their opposition.

This is a critical opportunity for communities, businesses, and leaders to voice support for protecting their coastal economies, ecosystems, and quality of life.

DEADLINE: Comments must be received by June 16, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.

HOW TO SUBMIT A COMMENT:

Go to: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/30/2025-07479/request-for-information-and-comments-on-the-preparation-of-the-11th-national-outer-continental-shelf If the link does not work, go to www.federalregister.gov , scroll to the search bar and enter the docket #: BOEM-2025-0015.

Click on the green button near the top of the page that says, “SUBMIT A PUBLIC COMMENT”.

Select whether you are submitting as an individual, organization or anonymous.

Fill out your name, contact information (optional), and enter or upload your comment.

Click Submit.

Mail your written comment to:

Ms. Kelly Hammerle Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (VAM-LD) 45600 Woodland Road Sterling, VA 20166-9216 Label envelope: “Comments for the 11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program”