The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Oil and Gas (Division) received applications for a Lease Plan of Operations and an Alaska Statute (AS) 38.05.850 Easement on September 1, 2023, from Hilcorp requesting authorization to conduct field studies to determine the potential for future production on three oil and gas leases in Cook Inlet that were part of the former Middle Ground Shoal Unit (MGSU) and to consolidate existing easements associated with the former MGSU.

Applicant: Hilcorp

Project ID: LOCI 23-001 and ADL 234256

Location: Former MGSU within Cook Inlet waters

Project Description:

The MGSU was voluntarily terminated effective June 30, 2023. Two of the oil and gas leases (ADLs 18744 and 18746) were relinquished, and the three remaining oil and gas leases (ADLs 18756, 18754, and 17595) received an extension by Suspension of Production. The proposed easement would be a consolidation of five existing pipeline easements associated with the former MGSU (ADLs 29257, 28192, 34900, 35340, and 32985) with the addition of the four platforms that were formerly producing for the MGSU (A, Baker, C, and Dillon). This consolidated easement would allow Hilcorp to retain the existing infrastructure to assess options for potential future use or, alternatively, develop a plan for dismantlement, removal, and remediation. No new infrastructure is being proposed at this time.

The application package is available for review at the Division’s Permitting Section, 550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1100, Anchorage, AK 99501 or online at http://dog.dnr.alaska.gov/Newsroom.

Please send comments by email to dog.permitting@alaska.gov, or by regular mail to the address above. All comments must be in writing. A copy of the final decision will be sent to any person who provides written comments. An eligible person affected by this decision may appeal or request the commissioner’s reconsideration in accordance with 11 AAC 02.  

All comments must be received by the comment deadline: 4:30 pm, Alaska Standard Time, October 13, 2023.

The Department of Natural Resources complies with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. This notice will be made available in alternative communication formats upon request. Individuals with disabilities who may need auxiliary aids, services, or special modifications to participate may contact the address above or call 907-269-8411.