BLM opens drilling EAs in Wyo. for public comment

The Bureau of Land Management Casper Office on Monday released environmental assessments for three areas in Converse County drawing the interest of oil and gas operators.

The assessments -- triggered by multiple notices of staking and applications for permits to drill -- cover three areas in Converse County and western Niobrara County which total about 1,175 square miles.

The areas -- called Spearhead Ranch, Highland Loop Road and East Converse -- include project proposals with both horizontal and vertical wells totaling at least 100 well pads.

A public comment period runs through Oct. 17.