BLM Advances Oil Shale Research in Colorado

On October 13, 2010, the BLM announced in a press release its 2 nomination for the second round of Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) oil shale leases in northwest Colorado’s Piceance Basin. The two companies are ExxonMobil Exploration CO. and Natural Soda Holdings, Inc. The two leases are up to 160-acre parcels.   The successful applicants may also identify an additional 480 acres to be reserved for a potential commercial lease.  Each of the two companies would be eligible for a total of 640 acres.    The first round of leasing had made available 5,120 acres in the Piceance Basin.   According to BLM Director