Robert Besser
26 Mar 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C.: U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has announced plans to open more land for oil and gas drilling in Alaska and remove restrictions on building an LNG pipeline and mining road.

This follows President Donald Trump's order to boost energy development in the state.

Burgum said the government will reopen 82 percent of Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve for leasing and allow drilling on 1.56 million acres of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). He also lifted restrictions on land near the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and Dalton Highway, allowing Alaska to move forward with the Ambler Road and Alaska LNG Pipeline projects.

"It's time for the U.S. to use Alaska's rich resources to support the nation's economy, including Alaskans," Burgum said.

Drilling in Alaska's Arctic region has been controversial. Some lawmakers and tribal corporations want more drilling to create jobs, while past Democratic administrations have aimed to protect the environment. A lease auction in January, required by Congress, failed to attract any energy company bids.

Alaska's Republican leaders, including Governor Mike Dunleavy, have pushed to reverse Biden-era restrictions on resource development. Some Indigenous groups, like the Kaktovik Iñupiat Corporation, welcomed the decision, saying it supports their right to develop their land.

However, environmental groups strongly opposed the move, arguing it threatens wildlife like caribou and polar bears and contributes to climate change. "Expanding oil drilling in the Arctic is harmful to people, wildlife, and the climate," said Carole Holley of Earthjustice's Alaska office.

Oil companies remain cautious, as future political changes could once again block drilling in the region.