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Mashburn, Lori
Alex Hinson; Caroline Boulton; Daniel Jorjani; David Bernhardt; Douglas Domenech; Eli Nachmany; Faith Vander
Voort; Getto, Leila; James Cason; John Tanner; Laura Rigas; Magallanes, Downey; Mashburn, Lori; Micah
Chambers; Michael Argo; Natalie Davis; Russell Newell; Scott Hommel; Swift, Heather; Thiele, Aaron; Wesley
Bullock; Willens, Todd
Fwd: DOI Cabinet Affairs Report 4/27
Friday, April 27, 2018 1:00:30 PM
DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS 4-27-18.docx

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS –
4/27/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
·         4/27 - Tour Appomattox Court House National Historical Park in
Appomattox, VA
o   Tour Booker T. Washington National Monument in Hardy, VA
·         4/28 - Hike Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Roanoke, VA
NEXT WEEK:
·         4/30: Personal Day
·         5/1: Meeting with Governor Otter (ID)
o   Meeting with DOD Under Secretary for Research and Engineering,
Dr. Michael Griffin
o   TENT. WH Principals Meeting
·         5/2: Internal Meetings
·         5/3: National Day of Prayer Service
·         5/4: Personal Travel
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with NOAA officials and conducting internal meetings.
OF NOTE
POLITICO: Interior to unveil offshore well-control rule changes
The Interior Department will propose today revising offshore well-control rules that
the Obama administration put in place after the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon
explosion, according to sources.
"The U.S. Department of Interior will be announcing revisions to a rule guiding oil
and gas drilling and production operations on the Outer Continental Shelf in the
afternoon," according to an invitation Interior sent to several groups earlier today.
A source familiar with the issue said the rule will be the well-control rule Interior's
Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement finalized in April 2016, This would
be the second BSEE rule on offshore well safety that Interior plans to revise.
In December, the agency started the process to revise offshore oil and gas
production safety systems. Interior has said it was reviewing the well-control rules in
line with President Donald Trump's executive order last year calling for increased
offshore oil and gas production.

To view online:
https://www.politicopro.com/energy/whiteboard/2018/04/interior-to-unveil-offshorewell-control-rule-changes-1126397
WH COMMS REPORT (Submitted 4/26)

 Press Inquiries:
·         Many small and logistical inquiries.
·         E&E News (Scott Streater) —REQUEST— You guys have any comment
on this federal lawsuit filed today in U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado
against Interior and BLM concerning 53 parcels leased in two separate auctions in
2016 and 2017? —RESPONSE— Sent to DOJ
·         Virgin Islands Daily News (Brian O’Connor) —REQUEST— I'm looking
to explain what I believe the numbers show, which is that the Virgin Islands
National Park figures reflect one measure of the economic impact of the 2017
hurricane season. I note significant declines in virtually all categories of
measurement of local economic impact, and was hoping someone there can
confirm for me that, yes, this is the case. —RESPONSE— Sent to NPS
·         HuffPost, Politico and others —REQUEST— Is Interior commenting at
this time about the resignation of BIA Director Bryan Rice? —RESPONSE— We
have no personnel announcements at this time.
Top Stories:
·         HuffPost: Bureau Of Indian Affairs Director Resigns After Just 6 Months
On The Job
·         The Advocate: Louisiana gets $82 million for coastal restoration from Gulf
of Mexico oil revenue-sharing deal
Notable Tweets:
Top Issues, Accomplishments & Awareness:
·         Today, Secretary Zinke issued $188 million in energy revenues to fund
conservation and storm preparation. PRESS RELEASE
·         Today, Secretary Zinke proposed a 20 year mineral withdrawal renewal for
Wyoming Bighorn Sheep Winter Range. PRESS RELEASE
·         This Friday, Interior will announce new regulatory fixes for the well control
rule. This is one of the rules put in place by Obama Admin after the Deepwater
Horizon incident (expecting a lot of press).
·         April 21-30 - NATIONAL PARKS WEEK - Secretary Zinke will visit National
Park Service sites in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee to
publicize the President's plan to rebuild infrastructure in National Parks. He will
have joint press conference with Sen. Alexander in Tennessee.
·         Wednesday, May 9, Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate
Appropriations Committee.
·         May 18-30 - Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Wyoming to meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service
leadership, and deliver energy speeches.
o   Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other
priorities
o   Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o   National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure  
AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 4/26)
WEEK AHEAD April 25 thru May 3, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews
·         April 21-29: National Park Week – Secretary Zinke will continue to visit
multiple parks and participate in a series of events to celebrate National Park
Week. Sec. Zinke will also join a U.S. Navy Admiral on April 26 to hand out

 national park passes for military families and veterans. Additional scheduled stops
including giving keynote remarks for the Ball for the Mall event, Appomattox Court
House National Historic Park, Booker T. Washington National Monument, and
Great Smoky Mountains to highlight our infrastructure needs and the President’s
legislative package. We expect to have joint press conference with Sen. Alexander
in Tennessee. WH has cleared on a joint op-ed with Sen. Alexander.
·         April 25: Department-level Release: Interior and DOI will issue a news
release announcing the latest annual report conducted by the NPS on the
economic impact of visitation to national parks. Visitor spending in communities
near national parks in 2017 resulted in a $35.8 billion benefit to the nation’s
economy and supported 306,000 jobs. The release is being timed to coincide with
National Parks Week.
·         April 25: Department-level Release: DOI will announce BLM’s mineral
withdrawal renewal proposed for Whiskey Mountain Bighorn Sheep Winter Range.
The action is consistent with Secretary Zinke's Feb. 9, 2018, Secretarial Order
3362 to conserve big game winter range and migration corridors. The proposed
extension withdraws 1,431 acres of Federal land from location or entry under the
U.S. mining laws but not from leasing under the mineral leasing laws.  The public
land order that established this withdrawal in 2000 will expire soon unless
extended. Whiskey Mountain Bighorn Sheep Winter Range supports one of the
largest wintering herds of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in North America and
draws thousands of people annually. We have an accompanying video.
·         April 25: Department-level Release: The regular meeting of the
Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) will be held at the Department of
the Interior, in the South Penthouse. The Secretary of the Interior is the chairman
of the Commission, which includes members of Congress (Senator Heinrich, and
Representatives Wittman and Thompson), and representatives from federal and
state wildlife agencies. The MBCC will meet to consider for approval $9.8 million
for two parcels to be added to the National Wildlife Refuge System through the
Migratory Bird Conservation Fund (which includes Federal Duck Stamp funds) and
to consider for approval $50.5 million for 42 wetland conservation grants for
projects benefiting migratory birds in the United States, Canada, and Mexico,
recommended by the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. Approved
grants and acquisitions will be announced via a news release. Secretary Zinke will
speak at this event.
·         April 26: Secretary Zinke will be at the White House to support POTUS
and FLOTUS at the Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride. Working with WH
Comms to do TBD media ahead of time.
·         April 26: WILD HORSES AND BURRO ROUNDTABLE AND REPORT
TO CONGRESS: BLM will complete a report to Congress detailing legislative and
administrative options to bring Wild Horse and Burro populations to appropriate
management levels.  The current population and program are unsustainable
resulting in vast resource impacts and unhealthy herds.  In the past year, the
Department has requested the restoration of statutory tools to manage herd
levels, which includes humane destruction, and others to facilitate sales of excess
animals. The Secretary will host another roundtable with animal rights advocates
and stakeholders to discuss the report and options going forward.  The report will
be submitted to Congress in draft form prior to the meeting. We will not issue a
release, but will have talking points available.
·         April 26: Sec. Zinke will give informal remarks at Congressional Western
Caucus Monthly Member Luncheon. Closed press.
·         April 26: Sec. Zinke will provide remarks at the Teddy Roosevelt
Conservation Partnership evening annual BBQ event. The Deputy Secretary is

 scheduled to offer remarks at their board meeting that morning. Both are closed
press.
·         May 9: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations
Committee.
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
·         April 26: Department-level Release: The Office of Natural Resources
Revenue (ONRR) will disburse the first qualified Gulf of Mexico Energy Security
Act of 2006 (GOMESA) Phase II revenues to the four Gulf producing States and
their eligible coastal political subdivisions (CPS) for Fiscal Year 2018. The total
disbursement that the States and their CPS will share is over $200 million.
Secretary will take a photo with members on the Hill for social media.
·         April 27: NEPA ACTIONS: The Department plans to distribute additional
guidance to its Assistant Secretaries, Bureau Directors, and NEPA Practitioners to
facilitate compliance with E.O. 13807 and S.O. 3355. This guidance builds on CEQ
and Department regulations that require Environmental Impact Statements to be
completed within 150 pages (300 pages for complex circumstances), replaces the
EIS surnaming process with a briefing schedule, and directs Decision Files to be
compiled contemporaneously to EIS development and drafting. No pro-active
media is planned.  
·         April 27: WELL CONTROL FOR OFFSHORE DRILLING RULE: The
proposed rule to revise certain provisions of the 2016 rule entitled “Blowout
Preventer Systems and Well Control” was submitted to Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) on December 7. It is anticipated that BSEE will receive the Draft
Rule from OMB by March 15. It will then be sent to the Federal Register for
publication followed by a public comment period. This rule will be high profile and
controversial. The rule will be announced ahead of the Offshore Technology
Conference and amplified throughout the duration of the conference in Houston.
Staff has briefed NEC and White House Communications on the rule. Note: the
Director of BSEE will NOT announce both the Well Control Rule and the PSS rule
together. Just Well Control this week.
·         May 3 (tent.): SAGE GROUSE UPDATE: The Department ​is ​progressing
with​ Draft Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) to amend the previous
Administration’s Sage Grouse Management Plans. These plans have been shared
with cooperating partners, which include States and other stakeholders. After
taking feedback we, will release the Draft EISs in ​early May​. Draft comms
materials are forthcoming.
Interior Social Media Updates
·         April 26: Department-level Blog Post: Interior will release a video
about what to pack on a hike in a park to help celebrate National Parks Week.
National Park Service
·         April 25 (tent.): Catoctin Mountain Park is planning to conduct prescribed
fires on up to 18 acres of park forests. The fires are intended to promote the
growth of native plant and tree species and limit the threat of wildfires by
reducing leaf litter and downed limbs. The fires will be conducted by teams of
qualified wildland firefighters with support of local fire departments. Limited trail
closures will be in effect for short periods of time, and the impact on park visitors
and neighbors will be minor.
·         April 25: Cape Krusenstern National Monument Subsistence Resource
Commission (SRC) will hold a public meeting in Kotzebue, Alaska. The purpose of
an SRC is to devise and recommend to the Governor of Alaska and the Secretary a
program for subsistence hunting within Alaska national parks where subsistence is
authorized. The SRCs were established under the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act.

 ·         April 25: A research manuscript, co-authored with the NPS, is planned for
publication by Science Advances regarding a Late Pleistocene mega track site at
White Sands National Monument. Matthew Bennett, professor with the Institute
for Studies in Landscapes and Human Evolution, Bournemouth University, UK,
conducted fieldwork at the monument and confirmed the occurrence of human
prints that are contemporaneous with ground sloth prints, which went extinct
some 10,000 years ago. The NPS Communications Office is coordinating with the
park on releasing information about the research and addressing the expected
media interest.
·         April 25 (tent.): Lassen Volcanic National Park expects to open a public
comment period on alternatives for a Wilderness Stewardship Plan and
Environmental Assessment (EA). The plan will provide a comprehensive strategy
to ensure the preservation and enhancement of wilderness character in the park's
designated wilderness and backcountry areas. The proposed action seeks to
maintain unconfined recreational use while identifying and preserving resource
values that the public seeks in this setting.
·         From April 26 - 29 and May 3 – 6: Yosemite National Park will pilot a
traffic management program aimed at increasing safety and minimizing long lines
at the Arch Rock Entrance Station on California Route 140. The park is working
with the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) and the California
Highway Patrol (CHP) to temporarily stop vehicles on the road leading to the park,
allowing traffic to incrementally enter the park on the popular road. This is one of
the pilot programs the park is implementing to address traffic congestion, ensure
visitor access, and address safety concerns for park visitors.
·         April 26 – 27: Kobuk Valley National Park Subsistence Resource
Commission (SRC) will hold a public meeting in Kotzebue, Alaska. The purpose of
an SRC is to devise and recommend to the Governor of Alaska and the Secretary a
program for subsistence hunting within Alaska national parks where subsistence is
authorized. The SRCs were established under the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act.
·         April 26 (tent.): Local NPS Releases: NPS will announce $18,735 of
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act grants to fund three
repatriation and reburial projects. The grants will be awarded based on the
Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, enacted as Public Law 115-123, and pursuant to
the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, Public Law 101-601,
25 U.S.C. 3001, which authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to award grants to
assist in implementing provisions of the Act. This grant program generally creates
minimal press and Congressional interest.
·         April 27 (tent.): Joint NPF/NPS Release: The National Park
Foundation and the NPS will publicly announce nearly $500,000 in corporate
funding to support projects in recognition of the 50th anniversaries of the National
Trails System and National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Selected projects cover
a diverse geography and focus on expanding outdoor recreation and access,
improving infrastructure, and increasing stewardship, public use, and awareness
of National Trails and Rivers. Individual project milestones will provide
opportunities throughout 2018 for media coverage.
·         April 27: Prince William Forest Park will host representatives from the US
Olympic Committee and US Paralympics. The organizations will scout cycling
routes and operations locations for a potential Para-cycling World Cup event in the
park in the spring of 2019. This initial site visit is not expected to involve media.
·         April 27: Redwood National and State Parks will sponsor the public launch
of Redwoods Rising, a new partnership with Save the Redwoods League to
accelerate the pace and scale of restoration of the parks’ 120,000 acres of

 redwood forests. It is anticipated that 200 people will attend the lunch and
agreement signing, including Congressional staffers and local elected officials.
Media interest expected.
·         April 27: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area will meet with the Navajo
Nation’s Department of Justice to continue the conversation on how to update the
1970 Quadrilateral Agreement, the 1994 Memorandum of Understanding, and
2003 Bridge Agreement, all of which expire in 2020. The Quadrilateral Agreement
provides a mechanism for commercial and recreational development along the
shared GLCA/Navajo Nation boundary. The 1994 MOU, concerning the
implementation of the development concept plan (DCP) for Antelope Point, is
tiered from the 1970 Quadrilateral Agreement. The 2003 Bridge Agreement is
between the Navajo Nation and the NPS and details the administration of the
Antelope Point area. This agreement also tiers off the 1970 Quadrilateral
Agreement and 1994 MOU.
·         April 28 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Golden Gate National Recreation
Area (GGNRA) expects to issue the Final Environmental Assessment and Finding
of No Significant Impact for the Muir Woods National Monument Salmon Habitat
Enhancement and Bridge Replacement Project. The selected alternative will
restore aquatic habitat degraded by riprap that was placed along the creek banks
in the 1930s and replace four deteriorated pedestrian bridges that were installed
in the 1990s.  The project implements part of the 2014 General Management
Plan/Environmental Impact Statement. The projects themselves are not expected
to be controversial, but there is public interest in ensuring that NPS schedules its
projects to reduce cumulative impacts from planned construction work in the area
by the Marin County Department of Public Works and the Federal Highways Works
Administration.​
·         April 28: Fort Laramie National Historic Site will be hosting a
commemoration event for the 150th Anniversary of the signing of the 1868 Treaty
of Fort Laramie. There will be approximately 12-15 tribal nations of the Northern
Great Plains encamped at the Fort.
·         April 30: Local NPS Release: The Denver Service Center’s Technical
Information Center will release and announce a new website that allows the public
to access archived NPS records including service-wide construction
documentation; technical, planning, and scientific reports; drawings; specifications
and more through a user-friendly online database/website: pubs.etic.nps.gov.
Public users could include academic researchers, students, and history
enthusiasts.
·         April 30: Local NPS Release: Cape Hatteras National Seashore plans to
issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to lease Oregon Inlet Marina. The marina is
operated under a concession contract, which has been extended on an annual
basis since 2000. A lease has been determined to be the appropriate method for
managing the property in order to provide for facility maintenance and continued
public use of this locally-important and internationally-known charter fishing
marina. The RFP is expected to garner attention from multiple interested parties,
including the current operator, the local media, and elected officials.
·         April 30 (tent.): Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is expected to sign
an amendment to Arkansas code, changing the permit conditions for large animal
feeding stations like C&H Hog Farm near a tributary of the Buffalo National River.
The Farm is authorized to hold 6,503 pigs. Currently, Arkansas Department of
Environmental Quality provides a 30-day comment period when a permit change
involves retaining and then disposing of liquid animal waste. On March 15, the
Arkansas House and Senate approved identical bills that would prevent third
parties from filing complaints following a 30-day comment period if the farm

 remains in good standing with State regulators. The NPS has not been consulted
in connection with this measure.
·         May 1: ​Cumberland Gap National Historical Park plans to send a letter to
the town of Cumberland Gap (Tennesssee) for restitution according to the Park
System Resource Protection Act (54 U.S. Code § 100721) ​in the amount of
$1,110.71.  The restitution is related to a diesel spill ​that took place on February
11, 2018, ​within the park’s boundary in Gap Creek.
·         May 1 (tent.): The Missouri Department of Agriculture will issue their
findings relative to the improper use of herbicides by a private contractor to the
NPS on NPS lands at Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site.  The over application
occurred in the Summer and Fall of 2016 and its effect became evident in the
Spring of 2017.  Some 170 trees show signs of mortality and stress.  The
contractor has been cooperative to date and has indicated willingness to make
restitution for damages. The park is working with the NPS Resource Protection
Branch to evaluate the best approach to restore resources.
·         May 1: The Blue Ridge Parkway will host a public information meeting in
Roanoke, VA to spotlight upcoming projects and visitor improvements planned
during the 2018 visitor season. A broad range of projects will include major paving
and bridge projects, citizen science projects, and restoration of historic views at
parkway overlooks. This meeting is the second in a series to kick off the visitor
season. The first meeting, held in Asheville, NC on February 28, was attended by
an est. 200 people and was very well received. Park partners will also be
participating to showcase their role(s) in supporting the NPS and improving visitor
experiences. Media are invited.
·         May 1 (tent.): Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve
will begin efforts to relocate up to 2,500 feral burros from each park. Peaceful
Valley Donkey Rescue (a nonprofit partner) will fund and carry out the roundups,
test burros for disease, relocate them to holding facilities, and domesticate the
animals for adoption. This is anticipated to generate public interest.
·         May 3: The 30-day public review period will close for the Theodore
Roosevelt Island Cultural Landscape Report and Environmental Assessment
(CLR/EA).  The preferred alternative includes rehabilitating the comfort station,
better defining and improving the islands trail system, and establishing soft
landings and a floating dock on the island for non-motorized boats. The park will
host a public meeting on the island the week of April 16.
·         May TBD: The NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession
contracts to provide cruise ship services at Glacier Bay National Park and
Preserve. Two of the contracts are set aside for the two historic operators
identified through the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
legislation. Cruise ship services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10
year basis. New contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in
accordance with both Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve-specific legislation
and NPS law and policy. Contracts will be awarded by late October, 2019. The
prospectus is in final Department and Solicitor review.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
·         April 30: FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the Notice of
Intent (NOI) to conduct a 30-day public scoping period and prepare an
environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project
Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the issuance of an incidental take
permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a proposed wind
energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be
controversial with conservation organizations.
·         April 30: FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database. As

 part of the Species Status Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is
developing the database to record conservation plans and actions that benefit
monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases. The first phase
begins around April 30 when FWS opens the database to a select group for user
testing; the second phase will begin two to three weeks later when it is made
available to all users to enter data; and the third phase will make the database
available to users to access and view data.
·         April TBD: FWS plans to publish a rule removing the textual descriptions
of the critical habitat boundaries from certain wildlife entries that have maps
sufficient to stand as the official delineation of the critical habitat designation. This
rule does not increase, decrease, or in any other way change the critical habitat
designations from which we are removing the textual descriptions of boundaries.
This action will save taxpayer resources. FWS is taking this action in accordance
with the May 1, 2012, revision of the regulations related to publishing textual
descriptions of critical habitat boundaries.
·         April TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination on
the proposal to reclassify the Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to
threatened. This plant species has shown significant recovery due in part to
collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
·         April TBD: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a notice of issuance
for letters of authorizations issued in 2015, 2016, and 2017 under regulations
authorizing the non-lethal, unintentional take of marine mammals in the Chukchi
and Beaufort seas. This is an administrative action and is noncontroversial. No
news release will be issued.
·         May 1 (tent.): National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the
Federal Register a proposed rule and open a 30-day public comment period on
the 2018-19 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The proposed
rule would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting and/or sport
fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
·         May TBD: Local FWS Release: The FWS will release less than 14-dayold captive-born Mexican wolf pups into established wild Mexican wolf dens on
federal land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona Game and Fish Department's
Mexican wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field
Team) lead the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role
except for providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico.
Bureau of Land Management
·         April 25: BLM Nevada State Fire Management Officer Paul Peterson will
participate in an interagency wildland fire briefing for Nevada Governor Sandoval.
·         April 25: Local BLM Release: BLM Vernal Utah will release
Environmental Assessments for two proposed hazardous fuels projects for public
review and comment for 15 days. Half of the proposed project is located on lands
inventoried and found to have wilderness characteristics.
·         April 26: DOI Wild Horse and Burro Roundtable and BLM web
publication of report: Meeting in Washington, D.C., congressional briefing, and
web publication of the report.  If-asked press statement under development by
BLM.
·         April 25-30: Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce
publication of the Notice of Availability for the Final Environmental Impact
Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL) Project. The proposed project
includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10-year period on
approximately 140,000 acres.
·         April 27-30: If-Asked Press Statement: BLM will announce it has
reinstated the leases for Twin Metals Minnesota (TMM).  The reinstated leases will

 remain in effect until the BLM acts on the application for a third lease renewal,
informed by review under the National Environmental Policy Act, and subject to
reasonable updated terms and conditions.  Because the leases are located within
the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with
the U.S. Forest Service to identify the updated stipulations to be included in the
leases when renewed. The lease reinstatements do not give TMM approval to
begin any mining operations.  On Dec. 22, 2017, the Department of the Interior's
Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the TMM 1966 mineral lease terms give
TMM a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two leases.  The two 1966
leases were previously renewed twice, in 1989 and 2004.
·         April 27: DASLM Kate MacGregor to attend the Oregon and California
Timber Sale and Mill Tour.
·         April TBD: Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by
Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by Application covers a total of 3,581
acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the surface are
administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The
area contains 44.9 million tons of recoverable coal.  Based on extensive
environmental analysis, the preferred alternative would provide approximately 30
million tons for lease.  The Final EIS, based on two million tons of production
annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and indirectly
affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
·         May 1-2: Sage Grouse Task Force meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Brian
Steed and Cally Younger to attend.
·         May 3: Local BLM Release: BLM will issue state releases in Colorado,
Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada and northeastern California, announcing
publication of the six state Draft Greater Sage-grouse Environmental Impact
Statements (EISs) and the Notice of Availability for the Draft EISs.  A fact sheet,
Q&As + talking points for each state under development.
·         TBD: National BLM Release: BLM will announce the Wild Horse and
Burro 2018 Adoption Schedule
Office of Wildland Fire
·         April TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to
provide guidance on the upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review
and will be coordinated with USDA.
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
·         April 24-25 (tent.): Local BOEM Release: BOEM will announce it is
issuing a 30-day extension for submitting comments on its Beaufort Sea Call for
Information and Nominations. Comments may now be submitted until 11:59 p.m.
Eastern Time on Wednesday, May 30.
·         April 26: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a
Massachusetts PSN Auction Seminar and webinar in Sterling, VA from 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. The webinar will be recorded and uploaded to BOEM’s website.
·         April 26: Jim Bennett and Darryl Francois from the Office of Renewable
Energy Programs will be speaking at the Second Annual Mason Energy
Symposium: Energy - Water Nexus.
·         April 30 - May 2:  Acting Director Cruickshank will speak at the Offshore
Technology Conference at the O&G during luncheon session from 12:15 - 1:45
p.m. He will also participate in a Q&A session following the presentation. More
information can be found at:  http://2018.otcnet.org/schedule-of-events.
·         April TBD:  National BOEM Release: Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Sand
Management Draft EA: BOEM will announce that the Marine Minerals Program is
developing a Draft Environmental Assessment for sand management activities in

 the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical and geophysical surveys for
resource identification, research studies, and monitoring borrow areas. MMP staff
plans to send the draft EA to stakeholders for comment by mid to late May.
·         May 2:  Acting Director Cruickshank will participate in an industry panel
focusing on offshore wind. BOEM will not have a booth.
·         May TBD: BOEM Note to Stakeholders: BOEM to announce publication
of the December 2017- March 2018 BOEM Ocean Science magazine edition
related to the Resource Evaluation Program.
U.S. Geological Survey
·         April 25: Joint USGS, NOAA, Deltares (Holland) and University of
Hawaii International News Release: Many Low-Lying Pacific Atoll Islands
Could Be Uninhabitable by Mid-21st Century due to sea-level rise exacerbating
wave-driven flooding. Sea levels are rising, with the highest rates in the tropics,
where thousands of low-lying coral atoll islands are located. A new study from
U.S. Geological Survey, Deltares, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, and University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa scientists projects the impact
of sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding on atoll infrastructure and freshwater
availability under a variety of climate-change scenarios. USGS published a similar
study and issued a news release in 2015. Press release will coincide with
publication in Science Advances.
·         April 25: USGS Top Story on Website: USGS uses geophysical surveys
in multi-state, mid-U.S. water availability study, an interdisciplinary research effort
to survey water resources in Mississippi Alluvial Plain from the sky. The study
location includes portions of seven states—Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee,
Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.In February, 2018,  the U.S. Geological Survey
began the first in a series of flights in Greenwood, Mississippi, to acquire largescale airborne geophysical data in support of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP)
Regional Water Availability Study.  The contract was awarded to CGG, and the
USGS is working in partnership with multiple state agencies to conduct the
research.
·         April 25: National USGS Release:  Invasive Cuban Treefrogs can drive
out native frogs and be a nuisance to homeowners. They are invasive in Florida,
where they have successfully bred since at least 1951. A new USGS study
confirms a breeding population now exists in New Orleans, Louisiana.
·         April TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a
paper examining the practical limits of an earthquake early warning system, but
studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical quake in northern California. Will
be published in Science Advances.
·         April TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance
of Mineral Materials for Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and
Natural Resources Canada conducted a study on the net import reliance of the
United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries and as a single trading
bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with advanced
technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium,
graphite, indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
·         April 25: PDAS Tahsuda will provide the DOI-Indian Affairs Update to the
2018 Annual Tribal Self-Governance 30th Anniversary Conference in Albuquerque,
N.M. Sec. Zinke taped a video to be shown at the conference.
·         April 26: PDAS Tahsuda will meet with Coalition of Large Tribes to provide
a DOI update while he is in Albuquerque, N.M.
Bureau of Reclamation
·         April 30: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be in Salt Lake

 City meeting with the Upper Colorado River Commission to discuss drought
contingency planning. She also will be meeting with Reclamation’s Upper Colorado
Region and speaking at an all-employee meeting.
·         May 1: Reclamation’s Albuquerque Area Office and parties to the Abeyta
(Taos) Water Rights Settlement will meet in Taos to discuss the status of the
settlement implementation. Recent meetings have experienced some media and
public disruption. The public and media are likely to attend. Opponents of the
project have been very vocal about the project and potential impacts to local
water systems.
·         May 2: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be meeting with
stakeholders in the lower Colorado River Basin to discuss drought contingency
planning.
Insular and International Affairs
·         April 25: Assistant Secretary Domenech Delivers Keynote at Micronesian
Island Leaders Forum on Saipan.
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 4/17)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES
REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy
Act of 2005.  It directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide a report to Congress
within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates at least
every 5 years.  
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs will hold a confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant
Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations
Subcommittee will be holding a hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be
the witness.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson
(Solicitor) were reported out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both placed on the Senate
calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats. We
are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these
nominees.
·         Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to
the WH at the end of December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some
questions with the Office of Government Ethics.
·         Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION
ACT: DOI continues the ongoing process of formally rolling out the Public Lands

 Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both the President’s FY19 Budget and the
Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a House Natural
Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for
maintenance updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators
Alexander, Daines, Capito, Gardner and Tillis to introduce language that was built off
of the FY19 Budget proposal, the National Parks Restoration Act. The bill has
bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS Deputy Director, Daniel
Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on
the bill. On April 17 the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a
hearing to Examine Deferred Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National
Park Service. A legislative hearing on the bill text is expected soon, but nothing has
been scheduled.  
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke
has informally notified the House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding
FY18 implementation of new shared regional boundaries across Interior’s bureaus.
Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19 appropriations
committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI
believes it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each
of the 10 bureaus have different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new
approach has bureaus share unified boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted
to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing unified regions will improve the
timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by allowing senior
managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to
demonstrate the advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to
moving parts of the headquarters of BLM, FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior
successfully worked with the appropriations committee majority staff to avoid an
effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the reorganization
in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing  
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of
the Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS
Accepted:
5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
4/28 150th Anniversary signing of 1868 Treaty of Ft. Laramie (WY)
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting (Topopenish, WA)
5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)

 5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
Declining:
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)
5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
​Refinery Explosion – Superior, Wisconsin
An explosion occurred at the Superior Refining Company in Superior, Wisconsin
yesterday when an unknown hydrocarbon was released and then ignited resulting in
the blast. The heat associated with the subsequent fire also caused an ammonia tank
to explode. Several individuals were injured in this incident and an evacuation order
remains in effect for residents in the immediate vicinity of the refinery, as well as
areas downwind, which are sparsely populated. The EPA does not believe any oil or
response chemicals were released into waterways, but response personnel are
expected to place boom on an adjacent creek as a precaution. OEPC remains in
contact with the EPA and assisted them yesterday by identifying area Tribes with
potential interests in order for them to be notified. USFWS is monitoring for any
potential wildlife issues that may arise and as of this morning, there have been no
reported impacts to DOI personnel, lands, or facilities. 
OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
Offshore Revenue-Sharing: $188M To 4 States, Coast Counties.
The AP (4/26) reports that “four Gulf of Mexico states and their coastal counties are
getting nearly $188 million in revenue-sharing funds as the offshore leasing areas
involved expand.” The Newton County (AR) Times (4/26) reports that Interior
Secretary Ryan Zinke said, “Under President Trump’s America-First energy strategy,
we’ve increased energy revenue by a billion dollars nationally in the first year alone,
which creates more funding for important conservation projects in the Gulf. Offshore
energy production means less oil needed from foreign countries and more jobs for
the American people. This $188 million will be dedicated to coastal restoration and
other projects important to many communities in the Gulf.”
        The New Orleans Times-Picayune (4/26, Schleifstein) reports that because of
the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act, “Louisiana will receive $82 million in Gulf of
Mexico offshore revenue in the next few months...representing the first large
payment under the revenue sharing program created by Congress in 2006.” The
Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority “will oversee the spending of
$65.6 million of the money, while 20 coastal parishes will split $16.4 million.”
Alabama, Mississippi and Texas “will split the remaining $106 million in offshore
revenue generated during the first year of GOMESA’s larger Phase II distribution.”
        Additional coverage was provided by the Baton Rouge (LA) Advocate (4/26,
Stole).
Secretary Zinke Is Celebrating National Park Week.
In an interview with GrayDC (4/26, Zampa), Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke marked
National Park Week. Zinke encouraged families to come and “enjoy our lands.” He
also noted that parks are an “economic driver.” Zinke talked about the importance of
tackling the maintenance backlog at national parks and investing in infrastructure so
that “future generations enjoy the same experience.”
Bureau Of Indian Affairs Director Resigns After Just 6 Months On The Job.

 The Huffington Post (4/26, D'angelo, Waldron) reports that “Bryan Rice has resigned
just six months after Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke appointed him to lead the Bureau
of Indian Affairs, multiple sources familiar with the situation told HuffPost.” The BIA
has “made no official announcement about Rice’s departure.” BIA spokeswoman
Nedra Darling said, “It is our policy not to discuss DOI personnel matters in the
press.” The Hill (4/26, Greenwood) reports that “the resignation from bureau head
Bryan Rice came just over two weeks after the Interior Department’s inspector
general released a report saying that the agency had failed to gather sufficient
information to determine whether the reassignments of dozens of senior officials
were legal.” Also reporting is the High Country (CO) News (4/26, Smith).
Militia Leader Pleads Guilty In Attempted Cabin Explosion.
The AP (4/26, Whitehurst) reports that “a Utah militia group leader pleaded
guilty Thursday to trying to blow up a federally owned cabin in Arizona in what
prosecutors call a case of domestic terrorism.” William Keebler was “angry about
federal management of public lands and wanted to retaliate against the government,
federal prosecutors said.” Keebler “came under investigation after joining Nevada
rancher Cliven Bundy’s armed 2014 standoff over grazing fees amid hot debate over
federal control of public land in the West.” Also reporting are NPR (4/26, Siegler),
the Deseret (UT) News (4/26, Romboy), and the Salt Lake (UT) Tribune (4/26,
Manson).
U.S.
Extends Comment Period For Beaufort Sea Drilling. UPI (4/26, Graeber) reports that
“concerned parties have another 30 days to weigh in on U.S. plans to open up the
Arctic waters off the coast of Alaska to drillers, the government said.” The Bureau of
Ocean Energy Management “solicited the information on a proposed lease in the
Alaskan waters of the Beaufort Sea next year.” BOEM “said it has extended the call
for information for another 30 days, setting the expiration at one minute
before midnight EDT on May 30.”
Evergreen Man Guilty Of Shooting Endangered African Elephant In
Zimbabwe.
The Denver Post (4/26, Mitchell) reports that “a 63-year-old Evergreen man has
pleaded guilty to violating the Endangered Species Act after he poached an African
elephant inside the Gonarezhou National Park.” U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Varholak
“sentenced Paul Ross Jackson to pay a maximum fine of $25,000, according to a
news release by U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer and Special Agent in Charge Steve
Oberholtzer of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.” Troyer said in a news release,
“When American hunters violate the laws of foreign countries in the unethical pursuit
of trophies, they don’t just undermine the conservation efforts that make hunting
possible. They break the law.”
University Fined For Violating Indian Remains Law.
The AP (4/26, Raby) reports that Marshall University in West Virginia has been “fined
$4,999 for failing to complete inventories of American Indian remains and artifacts in
its possession.” The Interior Department “notified Marshall University President
Jerome Gilbert of the fine in a letter this week.” The letter “said Marshall officials
knew about the requirements of a 1990 federal law but failed to complete the
inventories until long after a deadline.”
U.S. Department Of Labor Continues Hurricane Recovery-Related Outreach
To U.S.V.I. On Wage Enforcement.

 The St. John Source (4/26) reports that “the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and
Hour Division (WHD) continues to investigate wage issues on St. Croix and St.
Thomas and provide compliance assistance related to recovery efforts following
hurricanes Maria and Irma.” Jose R. Vazquez, Wage and Hour Division Caribbean
district director, said, “The U.S. Department of Labor will ensure that employees
performing hurricane recovery work receive the wages and benefits they have legally
earned. The Department provides numerous tools to help employers understand their
legal responsibilities, and Department officials are available to answer any questions
they may have.”
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:
REG0008159 BOR Notice of Public Meeting: Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management
Work Group -- The Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group is
scheduled to meet via WebEx on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Notice 04/26/2018
REG0007686 BSEE Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf Blowout Preventer Systems and Well Control Revisions -- The Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is proposing to revise existing regulations for well
control and blowout preventer systems. Proposed Rule 04/26/2018
Lori K. Mashburn
White House Liaison & Senior Advisor to the Secretary
Department of the Interior
202.208.1694

 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS – 4/27/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
• 4/27 - Tour Appomattox Court House National Historical Park in Appomattox, VA
o Tour Booker T. Washington National Monument in Hardy, VA
• 4/28 - Hike Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Roanoke, VA
NEXT WEEK:
• 4/30: Personal Day
• 5/1: Meeting with Governor Otter (ID)
o Meeting with DOD Under Secretary for Research and Engineering, Dr. Michael Griffin
o TENT. WH Principals Meeting
• 5/2: Internal Meetings
• 5/3: National Day of Prayer Service
• 5/4: Personal Travel
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with NOAA officials and conducting internal meetings.
OF NOTE
POLITICO: Interior to unveil offshore well-control rule changes
The Interior Department will propose today revising offshore well-control rules that the Obama
administration put in place after the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon explosion, according to sources.
"The U.S. Department of Interior will be announcing revisions to a rule guiding oil and gas drilling and
production operations on the Outer Continental Shelf in the afternoon," according to an invitation
Interior sent to several groups earlier today.
A source familiar with the issue said the rule will be the well-control rule Interior's Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement finalized in April 2016, This would be the second BSEE rule on offshore well
safety that Interior plans to revise.
In December, the agency started the process to revise offshore oil and gas production safety systems.
Interior has said it was reviewing the well-control rules in line with President Donald Trump's executive
order last year calling for increased offshore oil and gas production.
To view online:
https://www.politicopro.com/energy/whiteboard/2018/04/interior-to-unveil-offshore-well-controlrule-changes-1126397
WH COMMS REPORT (Submitted 4/26)
Press Inquiries:
• Many small and logistical inquiries.
• E&E News (Scott Streater) —REQUEST— You guys have any comment on this federal lawsuit filed
today in U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado against Interior and BLM concerning 53
parcels leased in two separate auctions in 2016 and 2017? —RESPONSE— Sent to DOJ

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•

Virgin Islands Daily News (Brian O’Connor) —REQUEST— I'm looking to explain what I believe the
numbers show, which is that the Virgin Islands National Park figures reflect one measure of the
economic impact of the 2017 hurricane season. I note significant declines in virtually all categories
of measurement of local economic impact, and was hoping someone there can confirm for me that,
yes, this is the case. —RESPONSE— Sent to NPS
HuffPost, Politico and others —REQUEST— Is Interior commenting at this time about the
resignation of BIA Director Bryan Rice? —RESPONSE— We have no personnel announcements at
this time.

Top Stories:
• HuffPost: Bureau Of Indian Affairs Director Resigns After Just 6 Months On The Job
• The Advocate: Louisiana gets $82 million for coastal restoration from Gulf of Mexico oil revenuesharing deal
Notable Tweets:

Top Issues, Accomplishments & Awareness:

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Today, Secretary Zinke issued $188 million in energy revenues to fund conservation and storm
preparation. PRESS RELEASE
Today, Secretary Zinke proposed a 20 year mineral withdrawal renewal for Wyoming Bighorn Sheep
Winter Range. PRESS RELEASE
This Friday, Interior will announce new regulatory fixes for the well control rule. This is one of the
rules put in place by Obama Admin after the Deepwater Horizon incident (expecting a lot of press).
April 21-30 - NATIONAL PARKS WEEK - Secretary Zinke will visit National Park Service sites in
Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee to publicize the President's plan to rebuild
infrastructure in National Parks. He will have joint press conference with Sen. Alexander in
Tennessee.
Wednesday, May 9, Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations Committee.
May 18-30 - Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming to
meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service leadership, and deliver energy speeches.
o Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other priorities
o Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure

AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 4/26)
WEEK AHEAD April 25 thru May 3, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews
• April 21-29: National Park Week – Secretary Zinke will continue to visit multiple parks and
participate in a series of events to celebrate National Park Week. Sec. Zinke will also join a U.S. Navy
Admiral on April 26 to hand out national park passes for military families and veterans. Additional
scheduled stops including giving keynote remarks for the Ball for the Mall event, Appomattox Court
House National Historic Park, Booker T. Washington National Monument, and Great Smoky
Mountains to highlight our infrastructure needs and the President’s legislative package. We expect
to have joint press conference with Sen. Alexander in Tennessee. WH has cleared on a joint op-ed
with Sen. Alexander.
• April 25: Department-level Release: Interior and DOI will issue a news release announcing the latest
annual report conducted by the NPS on the economic impact of visitation to national parks. Visitor
spending in communities near national parks in 2017 resulted in a $35.8 billion benefit to the
nation’s economy and supported 306,000 jobs. The release is being timed to coincide with National
Parks Week.
• April 25: Department-level Release: DOI will announce BLM’s mineral withdrawal renewal proposed
for Whiskey Mountain Bighorn Sheep Winter Range. The action is consistent with Secretary Zinke's
Feb. 9, 2018, Secretarial Order 3362 to conserve big game winter range and migration corridors. The
proposed extension withdraws 1,431 acres of Federal land from location or entry under the U.S.
mining laws but not from leasing under the mineral leasing laws. The public land order that
established this withdrawal in 2000 will expire soon unless extended. Whiskey Mountain Bighorn
Sheep Winter Range supports one of the largest wintering herds of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
in North America and draws thousands of people annually. We have an accompanying video.
• April 25: Department-level Release: The regular meeting of the Migratory Bird Conservation
Commission (MBCC) will be held at the Department of the Interior, in the South Penthouse. The
Secretary of the Interior is the chairman of the Commission, which includes members of Congress
(Senator Heinrich, and Representatives Wittman and Thompson), and representatives from federal

 and state wildlife agencies. The MBCC will meet to consider for approval $9.8 million for two parcels
to be added to the National Wildlife Refuge System through the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund
(which includes Federal Duck Stamp funds) and to consider for approval $50.5 million for 42 wetland
conservation grants for projects benefiting migratory birds in the United States, Canada, and
Mexico, recommended by the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. Approved grants and
acquisitions will be announced via a news release. Secretary Zinke will speak at this event.
• April 26: Secretary Zinke will be at the White House to support POTUS and FLOTUS at the Wounded
Warrior Project Soldier Ride. Working with WH Comms to do TBD media ahead of time.
• April 26: WILD HORSES AND BURRO ROUNDTABLE AND REPORT TO CONGRESS: BLM will complete
a report to Congress detailing legislative and administrative options to bring Wild Horse and Burro
populations to appropriate management levels. The current population and program are
unsustainable resulting in vast resource impacts and unhealthy herds. In the past year, the
Department has requested the restoration of statutory tools to manage herd levels, which includes
humane destruction, and others to facilitate sales of excess animals. The Secretary will host another
roundtable with animal rights advocates and stakeholders to discuss the report and options going
forward. The report will be submitted to Congress in draft form prior to the meeting. We will not
issue a release, but will have talking points available.
• April 26: Sec. Zinke will give informal remarks at Congressional Western Caucus Monthly Member
Luncheon. Closed press.
• April 26: Sec. Zinke will provide remarks at the Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership evening
annual BBQ event. The Deputy Secretary is scheduled to offer remarks at their board meeting that
morning. Both are closed press.
• May 9: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations Committee.
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
• April 26: Department-level Release: The Office of Natural Resources Revenue (ONRR) will disburse
the first qualified Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 (GOMESA) Phase II revenues to the
four Gulf producing States and their eligible coastal political subdivisions (CPS) for Fiscal Year 2018.
The total disbursement that the States and their CPS will share is over $200 million. Secretary will
take a photo with members on the Hill for social media.
• April 27: NEPA ACTIONS: The Department plans to distribute additional guidance to its Assistant
Secretaries, Bureau Directors, and NEPA Practitioners to facilitate compliance with E.O. 13807 and
S.O. 3355. This guidance builds on CEQ and Department regulations that require Environmental
Impact Statements to be completed within 150 pages (300 pages for complex circumstances),
replaces the EIS surnaming process with a briefing schedule, and directs Decision Files to be
compiled contemporaneously to EIS development and drafting. No pro-active media is planned.
• April 27: WELL CONTROL FOR OFFSHORE DRILLING RULE: The proposed rule to revise certain
provisions of the 2016 rule entitled “Blowout Preventer Systems and Well Control” was submitted to
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on December 7. It is anticipated that BSEE will receive the
Draft Rule from OMB by March 15. It will then be sent to the Federal Register for publication
followed by a public comment period. This rule will be high profile and controversial. The rule will be
announced ahead of the Offshore Technology Conference and amplified throughout the duration of
the conference in Houston. Staff has briefed NEC and White House Communications on the rule.
Note: the Director of BSEE will NOT announce both the Well Control Rule and the PSS rule together.
Just Well Control this week.
• May 3 (tent.): SAGE GROUSE UPDATE: The Department is progressing with Draft Environmental
Impact Statements (EIS) to amend the previous Administration’s Sage Grouse Management Plans.
These plans have been shared with cooperating partners, which include States and other

 stakeholders. After taking feedback we, will release the Draft EISs in early May. Draft comms
materials are forthcoming.
Interior Social Media Updates
• April 26: Department-level Blog Post: Interior will release a video about what to pack on a hike in a
park to help celebrate National Parks Week.
National Park Service
• April 25 (tent.): Catoctin Mountain Park is planning to conduct prescribed fires on up to 18 acres of
park forests. The fires are intended to promote the growth of native plant and tree species and limit
the threat of wildfires by reducing leaf litter and downed limbs. The fires will be conducted by teams
of qualified wildland firefighters with support of local fire departments. Limited trail closures will be
in effect for short periods of time, and the impact on park visitors and neighbors will be minor.
• April 25: Cape Krusenstern National Monument Subsistence Resource Commission (SRC) will hold a
public meeting in Kotzebue, Alaska. The purpose of an SRC is to devise and recommend to the
Governor of Alaska and the Secretary a program for subsistence hunting within Alaska national
parks where subsistence is authorized. The SRCs were established under the Alaska National Interest
Lands Conservation Act.
• April 25: A research manuscript, co-authored with the NPS, is planned for publication by Science
Advances regarding a Late Pleistocene mega track site at White Sands National Monument.
Matthew Bennett, professor with the Institute for Studies in Landscapes and Human Evolution,
Bournemouth University, UK, conducted fieldwork at the monument and confirmed the occurrence
of human prints that are contemporaneous with ground sloth prints, which went extinct some
10,000 years ago. The NPS Communications Office is coordinating with the park on releasing
information about the research and addressing the expected media interest.
• April 25 (tent.): Lassen Volcanic National Park expects to open a public comment period on
alternatives for a Wilderness Stewardship Plan and Environmental Assessment (EA). The plan will
provide a comprehensive strategy to ensure the preservation and enhancement of wilderness
character in the park's designated wilderness and backcountry areas. The proposed action seeks to
maintain unconfined recreational use while identifying and preserving resource values that the
public seeks in this setting.
• From April 26 - 29 and May 3 – 6: Yosemite National Park will pilot a traffic management program
aimed at increasing safety and minimizing long lines at the Arch Rock Entrance Station on California
Route 140. The park is working with the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) and the
California Highway Patrol (CHP) to temporarily stop vehicles on the road leading to the park,
allowing traffic to incrementally enter the park on the popular road. This is one of the pilot
programs the park is implementing to address traffic congestion, ensure visitor access, and address
safety concerns for park visitors.
• April 26 – 27: Kobuk Valley National Park Subsistence Resource Commission (SRC) will hold a public
meeting in Kotzebue, Alaska. The purpose of an SRC is to devise and recommend to the Governor of
Alaska and the Secretary a program for subsistence hunting within Alaska national parks where
subsistence is authorized. The SRCs were established under the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act.
• April 26 (tent.): Local NPS Releases: NPS will announce $18,735 of Native American Graves
Protection and Repatriation Act grants to fund three repatriation and reburial projects. The grants
will be awarded based on the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, enacted as Public Law 115-123, and
pursuant to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, Public Law 101-601, 25
U.S.C. 3001, which authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to award grants to assist in implementing

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provisions of the Act. This grant program generally creates minimal press and Congressional
interest.
April 27 (tent.): Joint NPF/NPS Release: The National Park Foundation and the NPS will publicly
announce nearly $500,000 in corporate funding to support projects in recognition of the 50th
anniversaries of the National Trails System and National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Selected
projects cover a diverse geography and focus on expanding outdoor recreation and access,
improving infrastructure, and increasing stewardship, public use, and awareness of National Trails
and Rivers. Individual project milestones will provide opportunities throughout 2018 for media
coverage.
April 27: Prince William Forest Park will host representatives from the US Olympic Committee and
US Paralympics. The organizations will scout cycling routes and operations locations for a potential
Para-cycling World Cup event in the park in the spring of 2019. This initial site visit is not expected to
involve media.
April 27: Redwood National and State Parks will sponsor the public launch of Redwoods Rising, a
new partnership with Save the Redwoods League to accelerate the pace and scale of restoration of
the parks’ 120,000 acres of redwood forests. It is anticipated that 200 people will attend the lunch
and agreement signing, including Congressional staffers and local elected officials. Media interest
expected.
April 27: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area will meet with the Navajo Nation’s Department of
Justice to continue the conversation on how to update the 1970 Quadrilateral Agreement, the 1994
Memorandum of Understanding, and 2003 Bridge Agreement, all of which expire in 2020. The
Quadrilateral Agreement provides a mechanism for commercial and recreational development along
the shared GLCA/Navajo Nation boundary. The 1994 MOU, concerning the implementation of the
development concept plan (DCP) for Antelope Point, is tiered from the 1970 Quadrilateral
Agreement. The 2003 Bridge Agreement is between the Navajo Nation and the NPS and details the
administration of the Antelope Point area. This agreement also tiers off the 1970 Quadrilateral
Agreement and 1994 MOU.
April 28 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) expects to issue
the Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for the Muir Woods
National Monument Salmon Habitat Enhancement and Bridge Replacement Project. The selected
alternative will restore aquatic habitat degraded by riprap that was placed along the creek banks in
the 1930s and replace four deteriorated pedestrian bridges that were installed in the 1990s. The
project implements part of the 2014 General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement.
The projects themselves are not expected to be controversial, but there is public interest in ensuring
that NPS schedules its projects to reduce cumulative impacts from planned construction work in the
area by the Marin County Department of Public Works and the Federal Highways Works
Administration.
April 28: Fort Laramie National Historic Site will be hosting a commemoration event for the 150th
Anniversary of the signing of the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie. There will be approximately 12-15
tribal nations of the Northern Great Plains encamped at the Fort.
April 30: Local NPS Release: The Denver Service Center’s Technical Information Center will release
and announce a new website that allows the public to access archived NPS records including servicewide construction documentation; technical, planning, and scientific reports; drawings;
specifications and more through a user-friendly online database/website: pubs.etic.nps.gov. Public
users could include academic researchers, students, and history enthusiasts.
April 30: Local NPS Release: Cape Hatteras National Seashore plans to issue a Request for Proposals
(RFP) to lease Oregon Inlet Marina. The marina is operated under a concession contract, which has

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been extended on an annual basis since 2000. A lease has been determined to be the appropriate
method for managing the property in order to provide for facility maintenance and continued public
use of this locally-important and internationally-known charter fishing marina. The RFP is expected
to garner attention from multiple interested parties, including the current operator, the local media,
and elected officials.
April 30 (tent.): Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is expected to sign an amendment to Arkansas
code, changing the permit conditions for large animal feeding stations like C&H Hog Farm near a
tributary of the Buffalo National River. The Farm is authorized to hold 6,503 pigs. Currently,
Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality provides a 30-day comment period when a permit
change involves retaining and then disposing of liquid animal waste. On March 15, the Arkansas
House and Senate approved identical bills that would prevent third parties from filing complaints
following a 30-day comment period if the farm remains in good standing with State regulators. The
NPS has not been consulted in connection with this measure.
May 1: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park plans to send a letter to the town of Cumberland
Gap (Tennesssee) for restitution according to the Park System Resource Protection Act (54 U.S. Code
§ 100721) in the amount of $1,110.71. The restitution is related to a diesel spill that took place on
February 11, 2018, within the park’s boundary in Gap Creek.
May 1 (tent.): The Missouri Department of Agriculture will issue their findings relative to the
improper use of herbicides by a private contractor to the NPS on NPS lands at Ulysses S. Grant
National Historic Site. The over application occurred in the Summer and Fall of 2016 and its effect
became evident in the Spring of 2017. Some 170 trees show signs of mortality and stress. The
contractor has been cooperative to date and has indicated willingness to make restitution for
damages. The park is working with the NPS Resource Protection Branch to evaluate the best
approach to restore resources.
May 1: The Blue Ridge Parkway will host a public information meeting in Roanoke, VA to spotlight
upcoming projects and visitor improvements planned during the 2018 visitor season. A broad range
of projects will include major paving and bridge projects, citizen science projects, and restoration of
historic views at parkway overlooks. This meeting is the second in a series to kick off the visitor
season. The first meeting, held in Asheville, NC on February 28, was attended by an est. 200 people
and was very well received. Park partners will also be participating to showcase their role(s) in
supporting the NPS and improving visitor experiences. Media are invited.
May 1 (tent.): Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve will begin efforts to
relocate up to 2,500 feral burros from each park. Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue (a nonprofit
partner) will fund and carry out the roundups, test burros for disease, relocate them to holding
facilities, and domesticate the animals for adoption. This is anticipated to generate public interest.
May 3: The 30-day public review period will close for the Theodore Roosevelt Island Cultural
Landscape Report and Environmental Assessment (CLR/EA). The preferred alternative includes
rehabilitating the comfort station, better defining and improving the islands trail system, and
establishing soft landings and a floating dock on the island for non-motorized boats. The park will
host a public meeting on the island the week of April 16.
May TBD: The NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession contracts to provide cruise ship
services at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Two of the contracts are set aside for the two
historic operators identified through the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
legislation. Cruise ship services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10 year basis. New
contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in accordance with both Glacier Bay
National Park and Preserve-specific legislation and NPS law and policy. Contracts will be awarded by
late October, 2019. The prospectus is in final Department and Solicitor review.

 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• April 30: FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the Notice of Intent (NOI) to conduct a
30-day public scoping period and prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the
Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the issuance of
an incidental take permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a proposed wind
energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be controversial with
conservation organizations.
• April 30: FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database. As part of the Species Status
Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is developing the database to record conservation plans
and actions that benefit monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases. The first
phase begins around April 30 when FWS opens the database to a select group for user testing; the
second phase will begin two to three weeks later when it is made available to all users to enter data;
and the third phase will make the database available to users to access and view data.
• April TBD: FWS plans to publish a rule removing the textual descriptions of the critical habitat
boundaries from certain wildlife entries that have maps sufficient to stand as the official delineation
of the critical habitat designation. This rule does not increase, decrease, or in any other way change
the critical habitat designations from which we are removing the textual descriptions of boundaries.
This action will save taxpayer resources. FWS is taking this action in accordance with the May 1,
2012, revision of the regulations related to publishing textual descriptions of critical habitat
boundaries.
• April TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination on the proposal to reclassify the
Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to threatened. This plant species has shown significant
recovery due in part to collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
• April TBD: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a notice of issuance for letters of
authorizations issued in 2015, 2016, and 2017 under regulations authorizing the non-lethal,
unintentional take of marine mammals in the Chukchi and Beaufort seas. This is an administrative
action and is noncontroversial. No news release will be issued.
• May 1 (tent.): National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a proposed rule and
open a 30-day public comment period on the 2018-19 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing
Regulations. The proposed rule would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting
and/or sport fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
• May TBD: Local FWS Release: The FWS will release less than 14-day-old captive-born Mexican wolf
pups into established wild Mexican wolf dens on federal land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona
Game and Fish Department's Mexican wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf
Interagency Field Team) lead the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role
except for providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico.
Bureau of Land Management
• April 25: BLM Nevada State Fire Management Officer Paul Peterson will participate in an
interagency wildland fire briefing for Nevada Governor Sandoval.
• April 25: Local BLM Release: BLM Vernal Utah will release Environmental Assessments for two
proposed hazardous fuels projects for public review and comment for 15 days. Half of the proposed
project is located on lands inventoried and found to have wilderness characteristics.
• April 26: DOI Wild Horse and Burro Roundtable and BLM web publication of report: Meeting in
Washington, D.C., congressional briefing, and web publication of the report. If-asked press
statement under development by BLM.
• April 25-30: Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce publication of the Notice of
Availability for the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL)

 Project. The proposed project includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10year period on approximately 140,000 acres.
• April 27-30: If-Asked Press Statement: BLM will announce it has reinstated the leases for Twin
Metals Minnesota (TMM). The reinstated leases will remain in effect until the BLM acts on the
application for a third lease renewal, informed by review under the National Environmental Policy
Act, and subject to reasonable updated terms and conditions. Because the leases are located within
the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with the U.S. Forest
Service to identify the updated stipulations to be included in the leases when renewed. The lease
reinstatements do not give TMM approval to begin any mining operations. On Dec. 22, 2017, the
Department of the Interior's Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the TMM 1966 mineral lease
terms give TMM a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two leases. The two 1966 leases
were previously renewed twice, in 1989 and 2004.
• April 27: DASLM Kate MacGregor to attend the Oregon and California Timber Sale and Mill Tour.
• April TBD: Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final Environmental Impact Statement
(EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by Application
covers a total of 3,581 acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the surface are
administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The area contains 44.9
million tons of recoverable coal. Based on extensive environmental analysis, the preferred
alternative would provide approximately 30 million tons for lease. The Final EIS, based on two
million tons of production annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and
indirectly affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
• May 1-2: Sage Grouse Task Force meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Brian Steed and Cally Younger to
attend.
• May 3: Local BLM Release: BLM will issue state releases in Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah,
Wyoming, Nevada and northeastern California, announcing publication of the six state Draft Greater
Sage-grouse Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) and the Notice of Availability for the Draft EISs.
A fact sheet, Q&As + talking points for each state under development.
• TBD: National BLM Release: BLM will announce the Wild Horse and Burro 2018 Adoption Schedule
Office of Wildland Fire
• April TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to provide guidance on the
upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review and will be coordinated with USDA.
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
• April 24-25 (tent.): Local BOEM Release: BOEM will announce it is issuing a 30-day extension for
submitting comments on its Beaufort Sea Call for Information and Nominations. Comments may
now be submitted until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, May 30.
• April 26: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a Massachusetts PSN Auction
Seminar and webinar in Sterling, VA from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The webinar will be recorded and
uploaded to BOEM’s website.
• April 26: Jim Bennett and Darryl Francois from the Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be
speaking at the Second Annual Mason Energy Symposium: Energy - Water Nexus.
• April 30 - May 2: Acting Director Cruickshank will speak at the Offshore Technology Conference at
the O&G during luncheon session from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. He will also participate in a Q&A session
following the presentation. More information can be found at: http://2018.otcnet.org/schedule-ofevents.
• April TBD: National BOEM Release: Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Sand Management Draft EA: BOEM
will announce that the Marine Minerals Program is developing a Draft Environmental Assessment
for sand management activities in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical and

 geophysical surveys for resource identification, research studies, and monitoring borrow areas.
MMP staff plans to send the draft EA to stakeholders for comment by mid to late May.
• May 2: Acting Director Cruickshank will participate in an industry panel focusing on offshore wind.
BOEM will not have a booth.
• May TBD: BOEM Note to Stakeholders: BOEM to announce publication of the December 2017March 2018 BOEM Ocean Science magazine edition related to the Resource Evaluation Program.
U.S. Geological Survey
• April 25: Joint USGS, NOAA, Deltares (Holland) and University of Hawaii International News
Release: Many Low-Lying Pacific Atoll Islands Could Be Uninhabitable by Mid-21st Century due to
sea-level rise exacerbating wave-driven flooding. Sea levels are rising, with the highest rates in the
tropics, where thousands of low-lying coral atoll islands are located. A new study from U.S.
Geological Survey, Deltares, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and University of
Hawaiʻi at Mānoa scientists projects the impact of sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding on atoll
infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of climate-change scenarios. USGS
published a similar study and issued a news release in 2015. Press release will coincide with
publication in Science Advances.
• April 25: USGS Top Story on Website: USGS uses geophysical surveys in multi-state, mid-U.S. water
availability study, an interdisciplinary research effort to survey water resources in Mississippi Alluvial
Plain from the sky. The study location includes portions of seven states—Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky,
Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.In February, 2018, the U.S. Geological Survey began
the first in a series of flights in Greenwood, Mississippi, to acquire large-scale airborne geophysical
data in support of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP) Regional Water Availability Study. The
contract was awarded to CGG, and the USGS is working in partnership with multiple state agencies
to conduct the research.
• April 25: National USGS Release: Invasive Cuban Treefrogs can drive out native frogs and be a
nuisance to homeowners. They are invasive in Florida, where they have successfully bred since at
least 1951. A new USGS study confirms a breeding population now exists in New Orleans, Louisiana.
• April TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a paper examining the practical
limits of an earthquake early warning system, but studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical
quake in northern California. Will be published in Science Advances.
• April TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance of Mineral Materials for
Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and Natural Resources Canada conducted a
study on the net import reliance of the United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries
and as a single trading bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with
advanced technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium, graphite,
indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
• April 25: PDAS Tahsuda will provide the DOI-Indian Affairs Update to the 2018 Annual Tribal SelfGovernance 30th Anniversary Conference in Albuquerque, N.M. Sec. Zinke taped a video to be
shown at the conference.
• April 26: PDAS Tahsuda will meet with Coalition of Large Tribes to provide a DOI update while he is
in Albuquerque, N.M.
Bureau of Reclamation
• April 30: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be in Salt Lake City meeting with the Upper
Colorado River Commission to discuss drought contingency planning. She also will be meeting with
Reclamation’s Upper Colorado Region and speaking at an all-employee meeting.

 May 1: Reclamation’s Albuquerque Area Office and parties to the Abeyta (Taos) Water Rights
Settlement will meet in Taos to discuss the status of the settlement implementation. Recent
meetings have experienced some media and public disruption. The public and media are likely to
attend. Opponents of the project have been very vocal about the project and potential impacts to
local water systems.
• May 2: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be meeting with stakeholders in the lower
Colorado River Basin to discuss drought contingency planning.
Insular and International Affairs
• April 25: Assistant Secretary Domenech Delivers Keynote at Micronesian Island Leaders Forum on
Saipan.
•

CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 4/17)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report
is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to
provide a report to Congress within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates
at least every 5 years.
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will hold a
confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee will be holding a
hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be the witness.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson (Solicitor) were reported out of
the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both
placed on the Senate calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats.
We are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these nominees.
• Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to the WH at the end of
December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some questions with the Office of Government
Ethics.
• Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION ACT: DOI continues the
ongoing process of formally rolling out the Public Lands Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both
the President’s FY19 Budget and the Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a
House Natural Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for
maintenance updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators Alexander, Daines,
Capito, Gardner and Tillis to introduce language that was built off of the FY19 Budget proposal, the

 National Parks Restoration Act. The bill has bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS
Deputy Director, Daniel Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands
Subcommittee on the bill. On April 17 the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a
hearing to Examine Deferred Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National Park Service. A
legislative hearing on the bill text is expected soon, but nothing has been scheduled.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke has informally notified the
House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding FY18 implementation of new shared regional
boundaries across Interior’s bureaus. Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19
appropriations committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI believes
it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each of the 10 bureaus have
different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new approach has bureaus share unified
boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing
unified regions will improve the timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by
allowing senior managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to demonstrate the
advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to moving parts of the headquarters of BLM,
FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior successfully worked with the appropriations committee
majority staff to avoid an effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the
reorganization in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of the Assistant
Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS
Accepted:
5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
4/28 150th Anniversary signing of 1868 Treaty of Ft. Laramie (WY)
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting (Topopenish, WA)
5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)
5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
Declining:
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)

 5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Refinery Explosion – Superior, Wisconsin
An explosion occurred at the Superior Refining Company in Superior, Wisconsin yesterday when an
unknown hydrocarbon was released and then ignited resulting in the blast. The heat associated with the
subsequent fire also caused an ammonia tank to explode. Several individuals were injured in this
incident and an evacuation order remains in effect for residents in the immediate vicinity of the refinery,
as well as areas downwind, which are sparsely populated. The EPA does not believe any oil or response
chemicals were released into waterways, but response personnel are expected to place boom on an
adjacent creek as a precaution. OEPC remains in contact with the EPA and assisted them yesterday by
identifying area Tribes with potential interests in order for them to be notified. USFWS is monitoring for
any potential wildlife issues that may arise and as of this morning, there have been no reported impacts
to DOI personnel, lands, or facilities.
OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
Offshore Revenue-Sharing: $188M To 4 States, Coast Counties.
The AP (4/26) reports that “four Gulf of Mexico states and their coastal counties are getting nearly $188
million in revenue-sharing funds as the offshore leasing areas involved expand.” The Newton County
(AR) Times (4/26) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said, “Under President Trump’s AmericaFirst energy strategy, we’ve increased energy revenue by a billion dollars nationally in the first year
alone, which creates more funding for important conservation projects in the Gulf. Offshore energy
production means less oil needed from foreign countries and more jobs for the American people. This
$188 million will be dedicated to coastal restoration and other projects important to many communities
in the Gulf.”
The New Orleans Times-Picayune (4/26, Schleifstein) reports that because of the Gulf of Mexico
Energy Security Act, “Louisiana will receive $82 million in Gulf of Mexico offshore revenue in the next
few months...representing the first large payment under the revenue sharing program created by
Congress in 2006.” The Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority “will oversee the
spending of $65.6 million of the money, while 20 coastal parishes will split $16.4 million.” Alabama,
Mississippi and Texas “will split the remaining $106 million in offshore revenue generated during the
first year of GOMESA’s larger Phase II distribution.”
Additional coverage was provided by the Baton Rouge (LA) Advocate (4/26, Stole).
Secretary Zinke Is Celebrating National Park Week.
In an interview with GrayDC (4/26, Zampa), Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke marked National Park Week.
Zinke encouraged families to come and “enjoy our lands.” He also noted that parks are an “economic
driver.” Zinke talked about the importance of tackling the maintenance backlog at national parks and
investing in infrastructure so that “future generations enjoy the same experience.”
Bureau Of Indian Affairs Director Resigns After Just 6 Months On The Job.
The Huffington Post (4/26, D'angelo, Waldron) reports that “Bryan Rice has resigned just six months
after Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke appointed him to lead the Bureau of Indian Affairs, multiple sources
familiar with the situation told HuffPost.” The BIA has “made no official announcement about Rice’s
departure.” BIA spokeswoman Nedra Darling said, “It is our policy not to discuss DOI personnel matters
in the press.” The Hill (4/26, Greenwood) reports that “the resignation from bureau head Bryan Rice
came just over two weeks after the Interior Department’s inspector general released a report saying

 that the agency had failed to gather sufficient information to determine whether the reassignments of
dozens of senior officials were legal.” Also reporting is the High Country (CO) News (4/26, Smith).
Militia Leader Pleads Guilty In Attempted Cabin Explosion.
The AP (4/26, Whitehurst) reports that “a Utah militia group leader pleaded guilty Thursday to trying to
blow up a federally owned cabin in Arizona in what prosecutors call a case of domestic terrorism.”
William Keebler was “angry about federal management of public lands and wanted to retaliate against
the government, federal prosecutors said.” Keebler “came under investigation after joining Nevada
rancher Cliven Bundy’s armed 2014 standoff over grazing fees amid hot debate over federal control of
public land in the West.” Also reporting are NPR (4/26, Siegler), the Deseret (UT) News (4/26, Romboy),
and the Salt Lake (UT) Tribune (4/26, Manson).
U.S.
Extends Comment Period For Beaufort Sea Drilling. UPI (4/26, Graeber) reports that “concerned parties
have another 30 days to weigh in on U.S. plans to open up the Arctic waters off the coast of Alaska to
drillers, the government said.” The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management “solicited the information on a
proposed lease in the Alaskan waters of the Beaufort Sea next year.” BOEM “said it has extended the
call for information for another 30 days, setting the expiration at one minute before midnight
EDT on May 30.”
Evergreen Man Guilty Of Shooting Endangered African Elephant In Zimbabwe.
The Denver Post (4/26, Mitchell) reports that “a 63-year-old Evergreen man has pleaded guilty to
violating the Endangered Species Act after he poached an African elephant inside the Gonarezhou
National Park.” U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Varholak “sentenced Paul Ross Jackson to pay a maximum
fine of $25,000, according to a news release by U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer and Special Agent in Charge
Steve Oberholtzer of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.” Troyer said in a news release, “When American
hunters violate the laws of foreign countries in the unethical pursuit of trophies, they don’t just
undermine the conservation efforts that make hunting possible. They break the law.”
University Fined For Violating Indian Remains Law.
The AP (4/26, Raby) reports that Marshall University in West Virginia has been “fined $4,999 for failing
to complete inventories of American Indian remains and artifacts in its possession.” The Interior
Department “notified Marshall University President Jerome Gilbert of the fine in a letter this week.” The
letter “said Marshall officials knew about the requirements of a 1990 federal law but failed to complete
the inventories until long after a deadline.”
U.S. Department Of Labor Continues Hurricane Recovery-Related Outreach To U.S.V.I. On Wage
Enforcement.
The St. John Source (4/26) reports that “the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
continues to investigate wage issues on St. Croix and St. Thomas and provide compliance assistance
related to recovery efforts following hurricanes Maria and Irma.” Jose R. Vazquez, Wage and Hour
Division Caribbean district director, said, “The U.S. Department of Labor will ensure that employees
performing hurricane recovery work receive the wages and benefits they have legally earned. The
Department provides numerous tools to help employers understand their legal responsibilities, and
Department officials are available to answer any questions they may have.”
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:

 REG0008159 BOR Notice of Public Meeting: Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group -The Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group is scheduled to meet via WebEx on Tuesday,
May 22, 2018. Notice 04/26/2018
REG0007686 BSEE Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf - Blowout Preventer
Systems and Well Control Revisions -- The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is
proposing to revise existing regulations for well control and blowout preventer systems. Proposed Rule
04/26/2018

 From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Hawbecker, Karen
Daniel Jorjani
Press Release re: Twin Metals Reinstatement Letter
Monday, April 30, 2018 12:37:30 PM
2018.04.30 ksh edits TMM Lease Reinstatement Draft 04.29.18.docx

Dan, The Assistant Secretary's Office decided to hold off signing the Twin Metals reinstatement letter on Friday
until they have a press release ready to go.  I've attached the draft press release with my suggested edits.  Please let
me know if you'd like to add any additional edits.  Thanks. --Karen 

-Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

 News Release
Eastern States Office
For immediate release

Contact: blm press@blm.gov
Date: May xx, 2018

Bureau of Land Management reinstates Minnesota mineral leases
Consideration of application for renewal also re-started
(b) (5)

 From:
To:

Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Mashburn, Lori
Alex Hinson; Caroline Boulton; Daniel Jorjani; David Bernhardt; Douglas Domenech; Eli Nachmany; Faith Vander
Voort; Getto, Leila; James Cason; John Tanner; Laura Rigas; Magallanes, Downey; Mashburn, Lori; Micah
Chambers; Michael Argo; Natalie Davis; Russell Newell; Samantha Hebert; Scott Hommel; Swift, Heather; Thiele,
Aaron; Wesley Bullock; Willens, Todd
Fwd: DOI Cabinet Affairs Report 4/30
Monday, April 30, 2018 1:28:30 PM
DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS 4-30-18.docx

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS –
4/30/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
·         4/30: Personal Day
·         5/1: Meeting with Governor Otter (ID)
o   Meeting with DOD Under Secretary for Research and Engineering,
Dr. Michael Griffin
o   TENT. WH Principals Meeting
·         5/2: Call with Sen. Toomey (PA)
o   Call with Lee Rosen, SpaceX
·         5/3: National Day of Prayer Service
·         5/4: Personal Travel
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations
& Environment Baer, participating in the Permitting Council (FPISC) meeting, and
conducting other internal meetings.
WH COMMS REPORT
·         N/A
AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 4/26)
WEEK AHEAD April 25 thru May 3, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews
·         May 9: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations
Committee.
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
·         May 3 (tent.): SAGE GROUSE UPDATE: The Department ​is ​progressing
with​ Draft Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) to amend the previous
Administration’s Sage Grouse Management Plans. These plans have been shared
with cooperating partners, which include States and other stakeholders. After
taking feedback we, will release the Draft EISs in ​early May​. Draft comms
materials are forthcoming.
National Park Service
·         April 30: Local NPS Release: The Denver Service Center’s Technical
Information Center will release and announce a new website that allows the public
to access archived NPS records including service-wide construction
documentation; technical, planning, and scientific reports; drawings; specifications
and more through a user-friendly online database/website: pubs.etic.nps.gov.
Public users could include academic researchers, students, and history

 enthusiasts.
·         April 30: Local NPS Release: Cape Hatteras National Seashore plans to
issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to lease Oregon Inlet Marina. The marina is
operated under a concession contract, which has been extended on an annual
basis since 2000. A lease has been determined to be the appropriate method for
managing the property in order to provide for facility maintenance and continued
public use of this locally-important and internationally-known charter fishing
marina. The RFP is expected to garner attention from multiple interested parties,
including the current operator, the local media, and elected officials.
·         April 30 (tent.): Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is expected to sign
an amendment to Arkansas code, changing the permit conditions for large animal
feeding stations like C&H Hog Farm near a tributary of the Buffalo National River.
The Farm is authorized to hold 6,503 pigs. Currently, Arkansas Department of
Environmental Quality provides a 30-day comment period when a permit change
involves retaining and then disposing of liquid animal waste. On March 15, the
Arkansas House and Senate approved identical bills that would prevent third
parties from filing complaints following a 30-day comment period if the farm
remains in good standing with State regulators. The NPS has not been consulted
in connection with this measure.
·         May 1: ​Cumberland Gap National Historical Park plans to send a letter to
the town of Cumberland Gap (Tennesssee) for restitution according to the Park
System Resource Protection Act (54 U.S. Code § 100721) ​in the amount of
$1,110.71.  The restitution is related to a diesel spill ​that took place on February
11, 2018, ​within the park’s boundary in Gap Creek.
·         May 1 (tent.): The Missouri Department of Agriculture will issue their
findings relative to the improper use of herbicides by a private contractor to the
NPS on NPS lands at Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site.  The over application
occurred in the Summer and Fall of 2016 and its effect became evident in the
Spring of 2017.  Some 170 trees show signs of mortality and stress.  The
contractor has been cooperative to date and has indicated willingness to make
restitution for damages. The park is working with the NPS Resource Protection
Branch to evaluate the best approach to restore resources.
·         May 1: The Blue Ridge Parkway will host a public information meeting in
Roanoke, VA to spotlight upcoming projects and visitor improvements planned
during the 2018 visitor season. A broad range of projects will include major paving
and bridge projects, citizen science projects, and restoration of historic views at
parkway overlooks. This meeting is the second in a series to kick off the visitor
season. The first meeting, held in Asheville, NC on February 28, was attended by
an est. 200 people and was very well received. Park partners will also be
participating to showcase their role(s) in supporting the NPS and improving visitor
experiences. Media are invited.
·         May 1 (tent.): Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve
will begin efforts to relocate up to 2,500 feral burros from each park. Peaceful
Valley Donkey Rescue (a nonprofit partner) will fund and carry out the roundups,
test burros for disease, relocate them to holding facilities, and domesticate the
animals for adoption. This is anticipated to generate public interest.
·         May 3: The 30-day public review period will close for the Theodore
Roosevelt Island Cultural Landscape Report and Environmental Assessment
(CLR/EA).  The preferred alternative includes rehabilitating the comfort station,
better defining and improving the islands trail system, and establishing soft
landings and a floating dock on the island for non-motorized boats. The park will
host a public meeting on the island the week of April 16.
·         May TBD: The NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession

 contracts to provide cruise ship services at Glacier Bay National Park and
Preserve. Two of the contracts are set aside for the two historic operators
identified through the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
legislation. Cruise ship services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10
year basis. New contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in
accordance with both Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve-specific legislation
and NPS law and policy. Contracts will be awarded by late October, 2019. The
prospectus is in final Department and Solicitor review.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
·         April 30: FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the Notice of
Intent (NOI) to conduct a 30-day public scoping period and prepare an
environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project
Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the issuance of an incidental take
permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a proposed wind
energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be
controversial with conservation organizations.
·         April 30: FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database. As
part of the Species Status Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is
developing the database to record conservation plans and actions that benefit
monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases. The first phase
begins around April 30 when FWS opens the database to a select group for user
testing; the second phase will begin two to three weeks later when it is made
available to all users to enter data; and the third phase will make the database
available to users to access and view data.
·         April TBD: FWS plans to publish a rule removing the textual descriptions
of the critical habitat boundaries from certain wildlife entries that have maps
sufficient to stand as the official delineation of the critical habitat designation. This
rule does not increase, decrease, or in any other way change the critical habitat
designations from which we are removing the textual descriptions of boundaries.
This action will save taxpayer resources. FWS is taking this action in accordance
with the May 1, 2012, revision of the regulations related to publishing textual
descriptions of critical habitat boundaries.
·         April TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination on
the proposal to reclassify the Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to
threatened. This plant species has shown significant recovery due in part to
collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
·         April TBD: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a notice of issuance
for letters of authorizations issued in 2015, 2016, and 2017 under regulations
authorizing the non-lethal, unintentional take of marine mammals in the Chukchi
and Beaufort seas. This is an administrative action and is noncontroversial. No
news release will be issued.
·         May 1 (tent.): National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the
Federal Register a proposed rule and open a 30-day public comment period on
the 2018-19 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The proposed
rule would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting and/or sport
fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
·         May TBD: Local FWS Release: The FWS will release less than 14-dayold captive-born Mexican wolf pups into established wild Mexican wolf dens on
federal land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona Game and Fish Department's
Mexican wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field
Team) lead the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role
except for providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico.
Bureau of Land Management

 ·         April 25-30: Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce
publication of the Notice of Availability for the Final Environmental Impact
Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL) Project. The proposed project
includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10-year period on
approximately 140,000 acres.
·         April 27-30: If-Asked Press Statement: BLM will announce it has
reinstated the leases for Twin Metals Minnesota (TMM).  The reinstated leases will
remain in effect until the BLM acts on the application for a third lease renewal,
informed by review under the National Environmental Policy Act, and subject to
reasonable updated terms and conditions.  Because the leases are located within
the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with
the U.S. Forest Service to identify the updated stipulations to be included in the
leases when renewed. The lease reinstatements do not give TMM approval to
begin any mining operations.  On Dec. 22, 2017, the Department of the Interior's
Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the TMM 1966 mineral lease terms give
TMM a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two leases.  The two 1966
leases were previously renewed twice, in 1989 and 2004.
·         April TBD: Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by
Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by Application covers a total of 3,581
acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the surface are
administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The
area contains 44.9 million tons of recoverable coal.  Based on extensive
environmental analysis, the preferred alternative would provide approximately 30
million tons for lease.  The Final EIS, based on two million tons of production
annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and indirectly
affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
·         May 1-2: Sage Grouse Task Force meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Brian
Steed and Cally Younger to attend.
·         May 3: Local BLM Release: BLM will issue state releases in Colorado,
Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada and northeastern California, announcing
publication of the six state Draft Greater Sage-grouse Environmental Impact
Statements (EISs) and the Notice of Availability for the Draft EISs.  A fact sheet,
Q&As + talking points for each state under development.
·         TBD: National BLM Release: BLM will announce the Wild Horse and
Burro 2018 Adoption Schedule
Office of Wildland Fire
·         April TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to
provide guidance on the upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review
and will be coordinated with USDA.
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
·         April 30 - May 2:  Acting Director Cruickshank will speak at the Offshore
Technology Conference at the O&G during luncheon session from 12:15 - 1:45
p.m. He will also participate in a Q&A session following the presentation. More
information can be found at:  http://2018.otcnet.org/schedule-of-events.
·         April TBD:  National BOEM Release: Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Sand
Management Draft EA: BOEM will announce that the Marine Minerals Program is
developing a Draft Environmental Assessment for sand management activities in
the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical and geophysical surveys for
resource identification, research studies, and monitoring borrow areas. MMP staff
plans to send the draft EA to stakeholders for comment by mid to late May.
·         May 2:  Acting Director Cruickshank will participate in an industry panel
focusing on offshore wind. BOEM will not have a booth.

 ·         May TBD: BOEM Note to Stakeholders: BOEM to announce publication
of the December 2017- March 2018 BOEM Ocean Science magazine edition
related to the Resource Evaluation Program.
U.S. Geological Survey
·         April TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a
paper examining the practical limits of an earthquake early warning system, but
studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical quake in northern California. Will
be published in Science Advances.
·         April TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance
of Mineral Materials for Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and
Natural Resources Canada conducted a study on the net import reliance of the
United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries and as a single trading
bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with advanced
technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium,
graphite, indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Bureau of Reclamation
·         April 30: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be in Salt Lake
City meeting with the Upper Colorado River Commission to discuss drought
contingency planning. She also will be meeting with Reclamation’s Upper Colorado
Region and speaking at an all-employee meeting.
·         May 1: Reclamation’s Albuquerque Area Office and parties to the Abeyta
(Taos) Water Rights Settlement will meet in Taos to discuss the status of the
settlement implementation. Recent meetings have experienced some media and
public disruption. The public and media are likely to attend. Opponents of the
project have been very vocal about the project and potential impacts to local
water systems.
·         May 2: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be meeting with
stakeholders in the lower Colorado River Basin to discuss drought contingency
planning.
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 4/17)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES
REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy
Act of 2005.  It directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide a report to Congress
within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates at least
every 5 years.  
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs will hold a confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant
Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations
Subcommittee will be holding a hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be
the witness.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson
(Solicitor) were reported out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural

 Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both placed on the Senate
calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats. We
are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these
nominees.
·         Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to
the WH at the end of December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some
questions with the Office of Government Ethics.
·         Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION
ACT: DOI continues the ongoing process of formally rolling out the Public Lands
Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both the President’s FY19 Budget and the
Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a House Natural
Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for
maintenance updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators
Alexander, Daines, Capito, Gardner and Tillis to introduce language that was built off
of the FY19 Budget proposal, the National Parks Restoration Act. The bill has
bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS Deputy Director, Daniel
Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on
the bill. On April 17 the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a
hearing to Examine Deferred Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National
Park Service. A legislative hearing on the bill text is expected soon, but nothing has
been scheduled.  
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke
has informally notified the House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding
FY18 implementation of new shared regional boundaries across Interior’s bureaus.
Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19 appropriations
committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI
believes it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each
of the 10 bureaus have different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new
approach has bureaus share unified boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted
to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing unified regions will improve the
timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by allowing senior
managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to
demonstrate the advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to
moving parts of the headquarters of BLM, FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior
successfully worked with the appropriations committee majority staff to avoid an
effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the reorganization
in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing  
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of
the Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS
Accepted:

 5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting (Topopenish, WA)
5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)
5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
Declining:
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)
5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
​N/A
OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
Alexander, U.S. Secretary Of The Interior Zinke Promote Park Funding.
The Knoxville (TN) News Sentinel (4/28, Hancock) reports that Interior Secretary
Ryan Zinke joined Sen. Lamar Alexander at Great Smoky Mountains National
Park Saturday to promote The National Park Restoration Act, “legislation addressing
the billions in deferred maintenance to national park infrastructure and visitor
services nationwide.” According to the article, “speaking from the grounds of the
closed Look Rock Campground, the pair drew attention to the National Park Service’s
$11.6 billion in deferred maintenance needs, including $215 million in deferred
maintenance from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
        WBIR-TV Knoxville, TN (4/28, Robinson) reports that Zinke said, “We need a
national effort again to rebuild our national parks, and President Trump is a builder.
He loves to build and this country loves the parks and it’s a good match.”
        Local TV coverage was provided by  WTVF-TV Nashville, TN (4/29) and  WDEFTVChattanooga, TN (4/29).
        Secretary Of The Interior Visits Booker T. Washington National
Monument. The Martinsville (VA) Bulletin (4/27, Dunovant) reports that Interior
Secretary Ryan Zinke “spent the afternoon at Booker T. Washington National
Monument on Friday.” According to the article, “Zinke and his son Wolfgang were
given a full tour of the park where Booker T. Washington was born as a slave and
was emancipated.” The park was “one of several visited by Zinke as part of National
Park Week.” Zinke “said visits to smaller parks like Booker T. Washington National
Monument give him a view of the ‘front lines’ of the National Park Service.”
        Secretary Of The Interior Visits Appomattox Court House National Historical
Park. WSET-TVLynchburg, VA (4/27, Metzgar) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan
Zinke “visited the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park Friday.” Zinke
“took a tour of the park and buildings.” He also “talked with the staff at the park
about maintenance issues.”

         Also providing coverage is the Lynchburg (VA) News & Advance (4/27).
        Look Rock Campground To Reopen. The Sevierville (TN) Mountain Press (4/29,
Davis) reports that “while touring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Saturday,
U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke announced that the park’s Look Rock
Campground, closed since 2013, would soon reopen, thanks to $2 million in funding
provided through the recent omnibus bill.” According to the article, “Zinke’s
commitment to getting the campground reopened seems to indicate the half-million
in funds needed to repair those utility systems are included in the omnibus funding
approved in March.” Zinke said, “Public lands (are) not a Republican or Democrat
issue – it’s an American issue. Everyone loves the greatest experience in our
treasures ... our parks. What we have here (in the closed Look Rock Campground) is
an example of not prioritizing what we love.”
        Also reporting is the Maryville (TN) Daily Times (4/29, Wade).
Rules Established After Deepwater Horizon Disaster Face Revisions.
The Wall Street Journal (4/27, Mann, Puko) reports the Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement will reveal proposals next week to change a six-year-old
well-control rule passed after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, in order to make
compliance easier for the industry, which has long complained about the rule. BSEE
says that the changes will not affect safety but will save the fossil fuel industry close
to $1 billion in the coming 10 years.
        Bloomberg News (4/27, Dlouhy) reported that the Trump administration
announced proposed changes to regulations governing offshore drilling on Friday,
“include easing mandates for real-time monitoring of offshore operations and some
other measures safety advocates and environmentalists said were necessary to
prevent a repeat of the disastrous 2010 Gulf of Mexico spill.” Bloomberg wrote that
“the shift to loosen requirements comes alongside a Trump administration push to
dramatically expand offshore oil development by selling drilling rights in more than 90
percent of the US outer continental shelf.” The energy industry had pressed for more
sweeping regulatory reforms, but “the administration rejected an array of bigger
changes... including their appeal to undo a strict specification for how much pressure
must be maintained inside wells to keep them in check.” Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement Director Scott Angelle said, “People were concerned we’d
take a sledgehammer to it. Absolutely not. This is a very delicate scalpel to the
process.”
        The Daily Caller (4/27, Pearce) reported that according to API’s Erik Milito, “As
with all regulations, it is important that offshore safety regulations – including BSEE’s
Well Control Rule – constantly evolve and are revised based upon new insights and
developments in the offshore exploration and development field.” Milito added,
“Instead of locking in regulatory provisions that may actually increase risk in
operations, it is critical that revisions are made that enhance the regulatory
framework to ensure updated, modern, and safe technologies, best practices, and
operations.”
        The St. Augustine (FL) Record (4/28, Turner) reported that Florida lawmakers
on both sides of the aisle “denounced a White House proposal Friday that they say
would weaken offshore oil-drilling regulations.” The lawmakers “pointed to economic
damage that the deadly 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil spill inflicted on
the state’s tourism industry and environment,” and questioned if the risk is worth
reducing safety regulations.
        Additional coverage was provided by the Washington Examiner (4/27,
Siciliano), The Hill(4/27, Green, Cama), The Hill (4/27, Cama), Reuters (4/27,
Gardner), and the Sarasota (FL) Herald-Tribune (4/27, Turner).

 Email Reveals Potential Buyer For Navajo Coal-Fired Plant.
The AP (4/27, Fonseca) reports the “potential investors” in the Navajo Generating
Station “in northern Arizona have been identified as a New York-based firm that
focuses on distressed companies and one of its subsidiaries in the utility business.”
The plant “is set to close in December 2019 unless a new owner is found, costing
hundreds of good-paying jobs on the Navajo and Hopi reservations.” Lazard Freres,
an investment banking firm, “has been leading the search for a new buyer after being
hired by the plant’s sole coal supplier, Peabody Energy, Inc.”
        The Arizona Republic (4/29, Randazzo) reports “emails between Lazard and the
Central Arizona Project, which currently uses most of the power from the coal plant,
were made public recently by a Cleveland research group called the Institute for
Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.” It is “unclear how the institute got the
emails, but a CAP official confirmed their authenticity.” The emails indicate “that
Lazard set up an early April meeting with CAP to talk about the canal purchasing
power from the coal plant if it were to be run by Avenue Capital Group and Middle
River Power.”
Rights Groups Decry US Plan To Reduce Number Of Wild Horses.
Al Jazeera English (4/29) reports that “the US government has unveiled a plan to
reduce the number of wild horses and burros (wild donkeys) on public ranges from
100,000 to 27,000 through methods such as sales, sterilisation and euthanasia.” The
Bureau of Land Management “presented the plan on April 26 and said it aimed ‘to
achieve long-term sustainable populations’ of these wild animals and called for
politicians to end the prohibition of sales of wild horses and to ease limits on
euthanasia.” The proposal “caused outrage among US advocates for wild animals.”
Suzanne Roy, executive director of the American Wild Horse Campaign (AWHC),
called the plan “a roadmap for destruction of America’s wild free-roaming horse and
burros by virtually eradicating their populations on our Western public lands” in a
press release.
        Also reporting are the AP (4/27, Sonner) and KVOA-TV Tucson, AZ (4/28,
VinZant).
US Won’t Restore Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Protections.
The AP (4/27, Brown) reports the Interior Department announced Friday in the
Federal Register that the Administration “will not restore federal protections for
Yellowstone-area grizzly bears, despite a court ruling that called into question the
government’s rationale for turning grizzly management over to states that are now
planning public hunts for the animals.” The AP says the announcement “follows a
months-long review of a decision last year to lift protections in place since 1975 for
about 700 bears in and around Yellowstone National Park.”
        Also reporting are The Hill (4/28, Greenwood), KRTV-TV Great Falls (MT) Great
Falls, MT (4/28), KTVH-TV Helena (MT) Helena, MT (4/27), and KPAX-TV Missoula
(MT) Missoula, MT (4/29, Stanfield).
Nearly 300,000 Colorado Public School Students Now Barred From Making
Field Trips To Rocky Flats.
The Denver Post (4/29, Aguilar) reports that “almost 300,000 students from metro
Denver school systems will be barred from school-sanctioned trips to Rocky Flats
National Wildlife Refuge after it opens this summer, with the state’s largest district
enacting a ban last week on visits to the former nuclear weapons manufacturing
site.” Denver Public Schools “joined half a dozen other local school districts that say
Rocky Flats, with its legacy of plutonium contamination that was often shrouded in

 secrecy, is too much of a risk for visiting schoolchildren.” Carl Spreng, the Rocky Flats
program manager with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment,
“said there is nothing clear – or accurate – about the information school districts are
getting from what he characterizes as a ‘traveling activist group’ dead set against
seeing the refuge open.”
Civil Rights Sites Considered For National Park Status.
The AP (4/29) reports that the National Park Service is “preparing to hold six public
hearings about a proposal to give national park status to some civil rights in
Mississippi.” According to the article, “the sites are the Jackson home where
Mississippi NAACP leader Medgar Evers was assassinated in 1963; a store and
courthouse connected to the 1955 slaying of black teenager Emmett Till; the old
Neshoba County Jail where civil rights activists Michael Schwerner, James Chaney and
Andrew Goodman were detained before Ku Klux Klansmen killed them in 1964; and
the Biloxi medical office of Dr. Gilbert Mason, who organized wade-ins to integrate
public beaches on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.” The hearings will be held “May 7 in
Ewing Hall at Delta State University in Cleveland and at the Tallahatchie County
Courthouse in Sumner; May 8 at the shared auditorium of the Mississippi Civil Rights
Museum and the Museum of Mississippi history and at the Medgar Evers Library, both
in Jackson; May 9 at the depot in Philadelphia; and May 10 at the Biloxi Visitors
Center.” Ben West, Southeast regional chief for planning and compliance with the
National Park Service, said, “Rigorous research and public opinion help our nation’s
leaders determine whether a resource of national significance should be added to the
National Park System. The public’s voice is critical to this process.”
Interior Dept. Considering Fee For Nations To Access Critical Satellite Data.
The New York Daily News (4/27, Scotti) reports that the Interior Department has
“directed an advisory committee to consider adding a fee to the data garnered from
its satellites that’s considered a critical, central monitoring tool of the world’s
ecosystems and natural resources.” According to the article, “the data collected by
the satellites has been free for the past 10 years,” but “if the committee agrees to
start charging, the unknown fees could be implemented as soon as 2019 — a
potentially damning prospect for many nations.”
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:
REG0008192 NPS National Register of Historic Places, April 21, 2018 -- The NPS is
soliciting comments on the significance of properties nominated before April 21,
2018, for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or related actions. Notice
04/27/2018
REG0008182 OS Agency Information Collection Activities; Donor Certification Form -This Notice, under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), announces that the
Office of the Secretary (OS), Office of Financial Management, will ask the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) to renew its approval of an information collection
pertaining to the Donor Certification Form.  The OS is requesting public comments on
the proposed renewal for 60 days. Notice 04/27/2018
REG0008191 OS Agency Information Collection Activities; Natural and Cultural
Resources Agencies Customer Relationship Management -- This Notice, under the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), announces that the Office of the Secretary
(OS) will ask the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to renew with revisions its
approval of an information collection pertaining to Natural and Cultural Resources

 Agencies Customer Relationship Management.  The OS is requesting public comments
on the proposed renewal for 60 days. Notice 04/27/2018
​Lori K. Mashburn
White House Liaison & Senior Advisor to the Secretary
Department of the Interior
202.208.1694

 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS – 4/30/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
• 4/30: Personal Day
• 5/1: Meeting with Governor Otter (ID)
o Meeting with DOD Under Secretary for Research and Engineering, Dr. Michael Griffin
o TENT. WH Principals Meeting
• 5/2: Call with Sen. Toomey (PA)
o Call with Lee Rosen, SpaceX
• 5/3: National Day of Prayer Service
• 5/4: Personal Travel
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations & Environment Baer,
participating in the Permitting Council (FPISC) meeting, and conducting other internal meetings.
WH COMMS REPORT (Submitted 4/26)
• N/A
AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 4/26)
WEEK AHEAD April 25 thru May 3, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews
• May 9: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations Committee.
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
• May 3 (tent.): SAGE GROUSE UPDATE: The Department is progressing with Draft Environmental
Impact Statements (EIS) to amend the previous Administration’s Sage Grouse Management Plans.
These plans have been shared with cooperating partners, which include States and other
stakeholders. After taking feedback we, will release the Draft EISs in early May. Draft comms
materials are forthcoming.
National Park Service
• April 30: Local NPS Release: The Denver Service Center’s Technical Information Center will release
and announce a new website that allows the public to access archived NPS records including servicewide construction documentation; technical, planning, and scientific reports; drawings;
specifications and more through a user-friendly online database/website: pubs.etic.nps.gov. Public
users could include academic researchers, students, and history enthusiasts.
• April 30: Local NPS Release: Cape Hatteras National Seashore plans to issue a Request for Proposals
(RFP) to lease Oregon Inlet Marina. The marina is operated under a concession contract, which has
been extended on an annual basis since 2000. A lease has been determined to be the appropriate
method for managing the property in order to provide for facility maintenance and continued public
use of this locally-important and internationally-known charter fishing marina. The RFP is expected
to garner attention from multiple interested parties, including the current operator, the local media,
and elected officials.

 April 30 (tent.): Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is expected to sign an amendment to Arkansas
code, changing the permit conditions for large animal feeding stations like C&H Hog Farm near a
tributary of the Buffalo National River. The Farm is authorized to hold 6,503 pigs. Currently,
Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality provides a 30-day comment period when a permit
change involves retaining and then disposing of liquid animal waste. On March 15, the Arkansas
House and Senate approved identical bills that would prevent third parties from filing complaints
following a 30-day comment period if the farm remains in good standing with State regulators. The
NPS has not been consulted in connection with this measure.
• May 1: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park plans to send a letter to the town of Cumberland
Gap (Tennesssee) for restitution according to the Park System Resource Protection Act (54 U.S. Code
§ 100721) in the amount of $1,110.71. The restitution is related to a diesel spill that took place on
February 11, 2018, within the park’s boundary in Gap Creek.
• May 1 (tent.): The Missouri Department of Agriculture will issue their findings relative to the
improper use of herbicides by a private contractor to the NPS on NPS lands at Ulysses S. Grant
National Historic Site. The over application occurred in the Summer and Fall of 2016 and its effect
became evident in the Spring of 2017. Some 170 trees show signs of mortality and stress. The
contractor has been cooperative to date and has indicated willingness to make restitution for
damages. The park is working with the NPS Resource Protection Branch to evaluate the best
approach to restore resources.
• May 1: The Blue Ridge Parkway will host a public information meeting in Roanoke, VA to spotlight
upcoming projects and visitor improvements planned during the 2018 visitor season. A broad range
of projects will include major paving and bridge projects, citizen science projects, and restoration of
historic views at parkway overlooks. This meeting is the second in a series to kick off the visitor
season. The first meeting, held in Asheville, NC on February 28, was attended by an est. 200 people
and was very well received. Park partners will also be participating to showcase their role(s) in
supporting the NPS and improving visitor experiences. Media are invited.
• May 1 (tent.): Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve will begin efforts to
relocate up to 2,500 feral burros from each park. Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue (a nonprofit
partner) will fund and carry out the roundups, test burros for disease, relocate them to holding
facilities, and domesticate the animals for adoption. This is anticipated to generate public interest.
• May 3: The 30-day public review period will close for the Theodore Roosevelt Island Cultural
Landscape Report and Environmental Assessment (CLR/EA). The preferred alternative includes
rehabilitating the comfort station, better defining and improving the islands trail system, and
establishing soft landings and a floating dock on the island for non-motorized boats. The park will
host a public meeting on the island the week of April 16.
• May TBD: The NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession contracts to provide cruise ship
services at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Two of the contracts are set aside for the two
historic operators identified through the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
legislation. Cruise ship services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10 year basis. New
contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in accordance with both Glacier Bay
National Park and Preserve-specific legislation and NPS law and policy. Contracts will be awarded by
late October, 2019. The prospectus is in final Department and Solicitor review.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• April 30: FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the Notice of Intent (NOI) to conduct a
30-day public scoping period and prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the
Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the issuance of
an incidental take permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a proposed wind
•

 energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be controversial with
conservation organizations.
• April 30: FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database. As part of the Species Status
Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is developing the database to record conservation plans
and actions that benefit monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases. The first
phase begins around April 30 when FWS opens the database to a select group for user testing; the
second phase will begin two to three weeks later when it is made available to all users to enter data;
and the third phase will make the database available to users to access and view data.
• April TBD: FWS plans to publish a rule removing the textual descriptions of the critical habitat
boundaries from certain wildlife entries that have maps sufficient to stand as the official delineation
of the critical habitat designation. This rule does not increase, decrease, or in any other way change
the critical habitat designations from which we are removing the textual descriptions of boundaries.
This action will save taxpayer resources. FWS is taking this action in accordance with the May 1,
2012, revision of the regulations related to publishing textual descriptions of critical habitat
boundaries.
• April TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination on the proposal to reclassify the
Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to threatened. This plant species has shown significant
recovery due in part to collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
• April TBD: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a notice of issuance for letters of
authorizations issued in 2015, 2016, and 2017 under regulations authorizing the non-lethal,
unintentional take of marine mammals in the Chukchi and Beaufort seas. This is an administrative
action and is noncontroversial. No news release will be issued.
• May 1 (tent.): National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a proposed rule and
open a 30-day public comment period on the 2018-19 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing
Regulations. The proposed rule would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting
and/or sport fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
• May TBD: Local FWS Release: The FWS will release less than 14-day-old captive-born Mexican wolf
pups into established wild Mexican wolf dens on federal land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona
Game and Fish Department's Mexican wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf
Interagency Field Team) lead the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role
except for providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico.
Bureau of Land Management
• April 25-30: Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce publication of the Notice of
Availability for the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL)
Project. The proposed project includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10year period on approximately 140,000 acres.
• April 27-30: If-Asked Press Statement: BLM will announce it has reinstated the leases for Twin
Metals Minnesota (TMM). The reinstated leases will remain in effect until the BLM acts on the
application for a third lease renewal, informed by review under the National Environmental Policy
Act, and subject to reasonable updated terms and conditions. Because the leases are located within
the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with the U.S. Forest
Service to identify the updated stipulations to be included in the leases when renewed. The lease
reinstatements do not give TMM approval to begin any mining operations. On Dec. 22, 2017, the
Department of the Interior's Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the TMM 1966 mineral lease
terms give TMM a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two leases. The two 1966 leases
were previously renewed twice, in 1989 and 2004.

 April TBD: Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final Environmental Impact Statement
(EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by Application
covers a total of 3,581 acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the surface are
administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The area contains 44.9
million tons of recoverable coal. Based on extensive environmental analysis, the preferred
alternative would provide approximately 30 million tons for lease. The Final EIS, based on two
million tons of production annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and
indirectly affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
• May 1-2: Sage Grouse Task Force meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Brian Steed and Cally Younger to
attend.
• May 3: Local BLM Release: BLM will issue state releases in Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah,
Wyoming, Nevada and northeastern California, announcing publication of the six state Draft Greater
Sage-grouse Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) and the Notice of Availability for the Draft EISs.
A fact sheet, Q&As + talking points for each state under development.
• TBD: National BLM Release: BLM will announce the Wild Horse and Burro 2018 Adoption Schedule
Office of Wildland Fire
• April TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to provide guidance on the
upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review and will be coordinated with USDA.
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
• April 30 - May 2: Acting Director Cruickshank will speak at the Offshore Technology Conference at
the O&G during luncheon session from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. He will also participate in a Q&A session
following the presentation. More information can be found at: http://2018.otcnet.org/schedule-ofevents.
• April TBD: National BOEM Release: Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Sand Management Draft EA: BOEM
will announce that the Marine Minerals Program is developing a Draft Environmental Assessment
for sand management activities in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical and
geophysical surveys for resource identification, research studies, and monitoring borrow areas.
MMP staff plans to send the draft EA to stakeholders for comment by mid to late May.
• May 2: Acting Director Cruickshank will participate in an industry panel focusing on offshore wind.
BOEM will not have a booth.
• May TBD: BOEM Note to Stakeholders: BOEM to announce publication of the December 2017March 2018 BOEM Ocean Science magazine edition related to the Resource Evaluation Program.
U.S. Geological Survey
• April TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a paper examining the practical
limits of an earthquake early warning system, but studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical
quake in northern California. Will be published in Science Advances.
• April TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance of Mineral Materials for
Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and Natural Resources Canada conducted a
study on the net import reliance of the United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries
and as a single trading bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with
advanced technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium, graphite,
indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Bureau of Reclamation
• April 30: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be in Salt Lake City meeting with the Upper
Colorado River Commission to discuss drought contingency planning. She also will be meeting with
Reclamation’s Upper Colorado Region and speaking at an all-employee meeting.
•

 •

•

May 1: Reclamation’s Albuquerque Area Office and parties to the Abeyta (Taos) Water Rights
Settlement will meet in Taos to discuss the status of the settlement implementation. Recent
meetings have experienced some media and public disruption. The public and media are likely to
attend. Opponents of the project have been very vocal about the project and potential impacts to
local water systems.
May 2: Reclamation Commissioner Brenda Burman will be meeting with stakeholders in the lower
Colorado River Basin to discuss drought contingency planning.

CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 4/17)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report
is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to
provide a report to Congress within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates
at least every 5 years.
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will hold a
confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee will be holding a
hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be the witness.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson (Solicitor) were reported out of
the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both
placed on the Senate calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats.
We are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these nominees.
• Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to the WH at the end of
December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some questions with the Office of Government
Ethics.
• Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION ACT: DOI continues the
ongoing process of formally rolling out the Public Lands Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both
the President’s FY19 Budget and the Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a
House Natural Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for
maintenance updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators Alexander, Daines,
Capito, Gardner and Tillis to introduce language that was built off of the FY19 Budget proposal, the
National Parks Restoration Act. The bill has bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS
Deputy Director, Daniel Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands
Subcommittee on the bill. On April 17 the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a

 hearing to Examine Deferred Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National Park Service. A
legislative hearing on the bill text is expected soon, but nothing has been scheduled.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke has informally notified the
House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding FY18 implementation of new shared regional
boundaries across Interior’s bureaus. Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19
appropriations committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI believes
it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each of the 10 bureaus have
different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new approach has bureaus share unified
boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing
unified regions will improve the timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by
allowing senior managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to demonstrate the
advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to moving parts of the headquarters of BLM,
FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior successfully worked with the appropriations committee
majority staff to avoid an effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the
reorganization in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of the Assistant
Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS
Accepted:
5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting (Topopenish, WA)
5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)
5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
Declining:
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)
5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
N/A

 OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
Alexander, U.S. Secretary Of The Interior Zinke Promote Park Funding.
The Knoxville (TN) News Sentinel (4/28, Hancock) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke joined Sen.
Lamar Alexander at Great Smoky Mountains National Park Saturday to promote The National Park
Restoration Act, “legislation addressing the billions in deferred maintenance to national park
infrastructure and visitor services nationwide.” According to the article, “speaking from the grounds of
the closed Look Rock Campground, the pair drew attention to the National Park Service’s $11.6 billion in
deferred maintenance needs, including $215 million in deferred maintenance from the Great Smoky
Mountains National Park.”
WBIR-TV Knoxville, TN (4/28, Robinson) reports that Zinke said, “We need a national effort again to
rebuild our national parks, and President Trump is a builder. He loves to build and this country loves the
parks and it’s a good match.”
Local TV coverage was provided by WTVF-TV Nashville, TN (4/29) and WDEF-TVChattanooga,
TN (4/29).
Secretary Of The Interior Visits Booker T. Washington National Monument. The Martinsville (VA)
Bulletin (4/27, Dunovant) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke “spent the afternoon at Booker T.
Washington National Monument on Friday.” According to the article, “Zinke and his son Wolfgang were
given a full tour of the park where Booker T. Washington was born as a slave and was emancipated.”
The park was “one of several visited by Zinke as part of National Park Week.” Zinke “said visits to smaller
parks like Booker T. Washington National Monument give him a view of the ‘front lines’ of the National
Park Service.”
Secretary Of The Interior Visits Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. WSETTVLynchburg, VA (4/27, Metzgar) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke “visited the Appomattox
Court House National Historical Park Friday.” Zinke “took a tour of the park and buildings.” He also
“talked with the staff at the park about maintenance issues.”
Also providing coverage is the Lynchburg (VA) News & Advance (4/27).
Look Rock Campground To Reopen. The Sevierville (TN) Mountain Press (4/29, Davis) reports that
“while touring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Saturday, U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke
announced that the park’s Look Rock Campground, closed since 2013, would soon reopen, thanks to $2
million in funding provided through the recent omnibus bill.” According to the article, “Zinke’s
commitment to getting the campground reopened seems to indicate the half-million in funds needed to
repair those utility systems are included in the omnibus funding approved in March.” Zinke said, “Public
lands (are) not a Republican or Democrat issue – it’s an American issue. Everyone loves the greatest
experience in our treasures ... our parks. What we have here (in the closed Look Rock Campground) is an
example of not prioritizing what we love.”
Also reporting is the Maryville (TN) Daily Times (4/29, Wade).
Rules Established After Deepwater Horizon Disaster Face Revisions.
The Wall Street Journal (4/27, Mann, Puko) reports the Bureau of Safety and Environmental
Enforcement will reveal proposals next week to change a six-year-old well-control rule passed after the
2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, in order to make compliance easier for the industry, which has long
complained about the rule. BSEE says that the changes will not affect safety but will save the fossil fuel
industry close to $1 billion in the coming 10 years.
Bloomberg News (4/27, Dlouhy) reported that the Trump administration announced proposed
changes to regulations governing offshore drilling on Friday, “include easing mandates for real-time
monitoring of offshore operations and some other measures safety advocates and environmentalists

 said were necessary to prevent a repeat of the disastrous 2010 Gulf of Mexico spill.” Bloomberg wrote
that “the shift to loosen requirements comes alongside a Trump administration push to dramatically
expand offshore oil development by selling drilling rights in more than 90 percent of the US outer
continental shelf.” The energy industry had pressed for more sweeping regulatory reforms, but “the
administration rejected an array of bigger changes... including their appeal to undo a strict specification
for how much pressure must be maintained inside wells to keep them in check.” Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement Director Scott Angelle said, “People were concerned we’d take a
sledgehammer to it. Absolutely not. This is a very delicate scalpel to the process.”
The Daily Caller (4/27, Pearce) reported that according to API’s Erik Milito, “As with all regulations,
it is important that offshore safety regulations – including BSEE’s Well Control Rule – constantly evolve
and are revised based upon new insights and developments in the offshore exploration and
development field.” Milito added, “Instead of locking in regulatory provisions that may actually increase
risk in operations, it is critical that revisions are made that enhance the regulatory framework to ensure
updated, modern, and safe technologies, best practices, and operations.”
The St. Augustine (FL) Record (4/28, Turner) reported that Florida lawmakers on both sides of the
aisle “denounced a White House proposal Friday that they say would weaken offshore oil-drilling
regulations.” The lawmakers “pointed to economic damage that the deadly 2010 Deepwater Horizon
explosion and oil spill inflicted on the state’s tourism industry and environment,” and questioned if the
risk is worth reducing safety regulations.
Additional coverage was provided by the Washington Examiner (4/27, Siciliano), The Hill(4/27,
Green, Cama), The Hill (4/27, Cama), Reuters (4/27, Gardner), and the Sarasota (FL) HeraldTribune (4/27, Turner).
Email Reveals Potential Buyer For Navajo Coal-Fired Plant.
The AP (4/27, Fonseca) reports the “potential investors” in the Navajo Generating Station “in northern
Arizona have been identified as a New York-based firm that focuses on distressed companies and one of
its subsidiaries in the utility business.” The plant “is set to close in December 2019 unless a new owner is
found, costing hundreds of good-paying jobs on the Navajo and Hopi reservations.” Lazard Freres, an
investment banking firm, “has been leading the search for a new buyer after being hired by the plant’s
sole coal supplier, Peabody Energy, Inc.”
The Arizona Republic (4/29, Randazzo) reports “emails between Lazard and the Central Arizona
Project, which currently uses most of the power from the coal plant, were made public recently by a
Cleveland research group called the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.” It is “unclear
how the institute got the emails, but a CAP official confirmed their authenticity.” The emails indicate
“that Lazard set up an early April meeting with CAP to talk about the canal purchasing power from the
coal plant if it were to be run by Avenue Capital Group and Middle River Power.”
Rights Groups Decry US Plan To Reduce Number Of Wild Horses.
Al Jazeera English (4/29) reports that “the US government has unveiled a plan to reduce the number of
wild horses and burros (wild donkeys) on public ranges from 100,000 to 27,000 through methods such
as sales, sterilisation and euthanasia.” The Bureau of Land Management “presented the plan on April 26
and said it aimed ‘to achieve long-term sustainable populations’ of these wild animals and called for
politicians to end the prohibition of sales of wild horses and to ease limits on euthanasia.” The proposal
“caused outrage among US advocates for wild animals.” Suzanne Roy, executive director of the
American Wild Horse Campaign (AWHC), called the plan “a roadmap for destruction of America’s wild
free-roaming horse and burros by virtually eradicating their populations on our Western public lands” in
a press release.
Also reporting are the AP (4/27, Sonner) and KVOA-TV Tucson, AZ (4/28, VinZant).

 US Won’t Restore Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Protections.
The AP (4/27, Brown) reports the Interior Department announced Friday in the Federal Register that the
Administration “will not restore federal protections for Yellowstone-area grizzly bears, despite a court
ruling that called into question the government’s rationale for turning grizzly management over to states
that are now planning public hunts for the animals.” The AP says the announcement “follows a monthslong review of a decision last year to lift protections in place since 1975 for about 700 bears in and
around Yellowstone National Park.”
Also reporting are The Hill (4/28, Greenwood), KRTV-TV Great Falls (MT) Great Falls, MT
(4/28), KTVH-TV Helena (MT) Helena, MT (4/27), and KPAX-TV Missoula (MT) Missoula, MT (4/29,
Stanfield).
Nearly 300,000 Colorado Public School Students Now Barred From Making Field Trips To Rocky Flats.
The Denver Post (4/29, Aguilar) reports that “almost 300,000 students from metro Denver school
systems will be barred from school-sanctioned trips to Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge after it
opens this summer, with the state’s largest district enacting a ban last week on visits to the former
nuclear weapons manufacturing site.” Denver Public Schools “joined half a dozen other local school
districts that say Rocky Flats, with its legacy of plutonium contamination that was often shrouded in
secrecy, is too much of a risk for visiting schoolchildren.” Carl Spreng, the Rocky Flats program manager
with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, “said there is nothing clear – or
accurate – about the information school districts are getting from what he characterizes as a ‘traveling
activist group’ dead set against seeing the refuge open.”
Civil Rights Sites Considered For National Park Status.
The AP (4/29) reports that the National Park Service is “preparing to hold six public hearings about a
proposal to give national park status to some civil rights in Mississippi.” According to the article, “the
sites are the Jackson home where Mississippi NAACP leader Medgar Evers was assassinated in 1963; a
store and courthouse connected to the 1955 slaying of black teenager Emmett Till; the old Neshoba
County Jail where civil rights activists Michael Schwerner, James Chaney and Andrew Goodman were
detained before Ku Klux Klansmen killed them in 1964; and the Biloxi medical office of Dr. Gilbert
Mason, who organized wade-ins to integrate public beaches on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.” The hearings
will be held “May 7 in Ewing Hall at Delta State University in Cleveland and at the Tallahatchie County
Courthouse in Sumner; May 8 at the shared auditorium of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the
Museum of Mississippi history and at the Medgar Evers Library, both in Jackson; May 9 at the depot in
Philadelphia; and May 10 at the Biloxi Visitors Center.” Ben West, Southeast regional chief for planning
and compliance with the National Park Service, said, “Rigorous research and public opinion help our
nation’s leaders determine whether a resource of national significance should be added to the National
Park System. The public’s voice is critical to this process.”
Interior Dept. Considering Fee For Nations To Access Critical Satellite Data.
The New York Daily News (4/27, Scotti) reports that the Interior Department has “directed an advisory
committee to consider adding a fee to the data garnered from its satellites that’s considered a critical,
central monitoring tool of the world’s ecosystems and natural resources.” According to the article, “the
data collected by the satellites has been free for the past 10 years,” but “if the committee agrees to start
charging, the unknown fees could be implemented as soon as 2019 — a potentially damning prospect
for many nations.”
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:

 REG0008192 NPS National Register of Historic Places, April 21, 2018 -- The NPS is soliciting comments on
the significance of properties nominated before April 21, 2018, for listing in the National Register of
Historic Places or related actions. Notice 04/27/2018
REG0008182 OS Agency Information Collection Activities; Donor Certification Form -- This Notice, under
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), announces that the Office of the Secretary (OS), Office of
Financial Management, will ask the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to renew its approval of
an information collection pertaining to the Donor Certification Form. The OS is requesting public
comments on the proposed renewal for 60 days. Notice 04/27/2018
REG0008191 OS Agency Information Collection Activities; Natural and Cultural Resources Agencies
Customer Relationship Management -- This Notice, under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA),
announces that the Office of the Secretary (OS) will ask the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to
renew with revisions its approval of an information collection pertaining to Natural and Cultural
Resources Agencies Customer Relationship Management. The OS is requesting public comments on the
proposed renewal for 60 days. Notice 04/27/2018

 From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Newell, Russell
Joe Balash; Daniel Jorjani; Karen Hawbecker; Laura Rigas; Heather Swift; John Bockmier; Todd Willens
Wynn, Todd; Benjamin Cassidy; John Tanner; Micah Chambers; Kaster, Amanda
Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 2:46:03 PM
DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement 04.30.18v2.docx

All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do any proactive
communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing it.  Timing is
later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
 

(b) (5)

Russell Newell
Deputy Director of Communications
U.S. Department of the Interior
(202) 208-6232

 @Interior

DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018

 

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Hawbecker, Karen
Daniel Jorjani
Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 4:35:29 PM

Dan, I recommend the following edited version of the draft if-asked statement for the Twin Metals reinstatement
decision.  See attachment for redlined version from the version that Russell sent.  Thanks. --Karen 

(b) (5)

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>,
Karen Hawbecker <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier <john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>,
Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>, Micah
Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>

 All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals. We do not plan to do any proactive
comnnuiications 011 this.

Please review. Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing it. Timing is
later today or tomorrow. Let me know if that works for everyone.

Russell

DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018

 

-Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

 From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Jorjani, Daniel
Newell, Russell
Karen Hawbecker
Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 4:45:54 PM

Russ - Please see below and attached from Karen, cc'd. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:34 PM
Subject: Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
Dan, I recommend the following edited version of the draft if-asked statement for the Twin Metals reinstatement
decision.  See attachment for redlined version from the version that Russell sent.  Thanks. --Karen 

(b) (5)

 ---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>,
Karen Hawbecker <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier <john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>,
Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>, Micah
Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do any proactive
communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing it.  Timing is
later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

  

Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy 
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

US. Department of the Interior
1849 Street NW. MS 6348
Washington, DC. 20240

Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Chambers, Micah
Newell, Russell
Joe Balash; Daniel Jorjani; Karen Hawbecker; Laura Rigas; Heather Swift; John Bockmier; Todd Willens; Wynn,
Todd; Benjamin Cassidy; John Tanner; Kaster, Amanda
Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 4:56:18 PM
4-30-18 DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement 04.30.18v2 (2).docx

I edited the release. It read very wordy. Might not be important since it's only "if-asked" but
these are my suggested edits. 
On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM, Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do any proactive
communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing it.  Timing
is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

 Micah Chambers

Deputy Director

Of?ce of Congressional Legislative Affairs
Of?ce of the Secretary of the Interior

DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30. 2018

Formatted: None, Pattern: Clear (White)

 

 

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Jorjani, Daniel
Newell, Russell
Karen Hawbecker
Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 4:59:44 PM
4-30-18 DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement 04.30.18v2 (2).docx

Russ - Please use Karen's version as the control document moving forward. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Chambers, Micah <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:55 PM
Subject: Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: "Newell, Russell" <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>,
Karen Hawbecker <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier <john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>,
Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>, "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>,
Benjamin Cassidy <benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner
<john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda" <amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
I edited the release. It read very wordy. Might not be important since it's only "if-asked" but
these are my suggested edits. 
On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM, Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do any proactive
communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing it.  Timing
is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

 DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30. 2018

Formatted: None, Pattern: Clear (White)

 

 

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Russell Newell
Jorjani, Daniel
Karen Hawbecker
Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 5:30:25 PM

Will do
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 30, 2018, at 4:59 PM, Jorjani, Daniel <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov> wrote:
Russ - Please use Karen's version as the control document moving forward. Thank
you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Chambers, Micah <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:55 PM
Subject: Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: "Newell, Russell" <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani
<daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>, Karen Hawbecker
<karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier
<john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>, Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>,
"Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>,
"Kaster, Amanda" <amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
I edited the release. It read very wordy. Might not be important since it's only "ifasked" but these are my suggested edits. 
On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM, Newell, Russell
<russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do
any proactive communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing
it.  Timing is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

 

 <4?30?18 DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement_04.30.18v2 (2).d0cx>

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Russell Newell
Jorjani, Daniel
Karen Hawbecker
Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 5:38:31 PM

Thank you so much. Can you include the attachment?  
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 30, 2018, at 4:45 PM, Jorjani, Daniel <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov> wrote:
Russ - Please see below and attached from Karen, cc'd. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:34 PM
Subject: Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
Dan, I recommend the following edited version of the draft if-asked statement for the Twin Metals
reinstatement decision.  See attachment for redlined version from the version that Russell sent. 
Thanks. --Karen 

(b) (5)

 (b) (5)

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani
<daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>, Karen Hawbecker
<karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier
<john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>, Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>,
Micah Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do any
proactive communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing
it.  Timing is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

  

Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy 
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

US. Department of the Interior
1849 Street NW. MS 6348
Washington, D.C. 20240

Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Hawbecker, Karen
Russell Newell
Jorjani, Daniel
Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Monday, April 30, 2018 5:43:25 PM
2018.04.30 SOL-KSH edits DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement 04.30.18v2.docx

Russell, Here's the attachment.  --Karen 

On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 5:38 PM, Russell Newell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
Thank you so much. Can you include the attachment?  
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 30, 2018, at 4:45 PM, Jorjani, Daniel <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov> wrote:
Russ - Please see below and attached from Karen, cc'd. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:34 PM
Subject: Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
Dan, I recommend the following edited version of the draft if-asked statement for the Twin Metals
reinstatement decision.  See attachment for redlined version from the version that Russell sent. 
Thanks. --Karen 

(b) (5)

 (b) (5)

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani
<daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>, Karen Hawbecker
<karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier
<john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>, Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>,
Micah Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do
any proactive communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing
it.  Timing is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement
April 30, 2018
(b) (5)

  

Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy So ICItor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Of?ce of the Solicitor

US. Department of the Interior
1849 Street NW. MS 6348
Washington, DC. 20240

Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

-Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

  

DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30. 2018

 

Formatted: None, Pattern: Clear (White)

 

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Newell, Russell
Hawbecker, Karen
Jorjani, Daniel
Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 11:10:19 AM

thanks again, Karen, Dan
Russell Newell
Deputy Director of Communications
U.S. Department of the Interior
(202) 208-6232
@Interior 

On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 5:42 PM, Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
wrote:
Russell, Here's the attachment.  --Karen 

On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 5:38 PM, Russell Newell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
Thank you so much. Can you include the attachment?  
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 30, 2018, at 4:45 PM, Jorjani, Daniel <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov> wrote:
Russ - Please see below and attached from Karen, cc'd. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:34 PM
Subject: Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
(b) (5)

 (b) (5)

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani
<daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>, Karen Hawbecker
<karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier
<john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>, Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>,
Micah Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do
any proactive communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe
signing it.  Timing is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for
everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement

 April 30, 2018

 

Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor

Energy and Mineral Resources

Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

-Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

 From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Jorjani, Daniel
David Bernhardt
Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 11:12:09 AM
2018.04.30 SOL-KSH edits DRAFT If asked statement TMM reinstatement 04.30.18v2.docx

good work by Karen - 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 5:42 PM
Subject: Re: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Russell Newell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Jorjani, Daniel" <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
Russell, Here's the attachment.  --Karen 

On Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 5:38 PM, Russell Newell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov> wrote:
Thank you so much. Can you include the attachment?  
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 30, 2018, at 4:45 PM, Jorjani, Daniel <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov> wrote:
Russ - Please see below and attached from Karen, cc'd. Thank you. 

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Hawbecker, Karen <karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 4:34 PM
Subject: Fwd: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Daniel Jorjani <daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>
Dan, I recommend the following edited version of the draft if-asked statement for the Twin Metals
reinstatement decision.  See attachment for redlined version from the version that Russell sent. 
Thanks. --Karen 

(b) (5)

 (b) (5)

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Newell, Russell <russell_newell@ios.doi.gov>
Date: Mon, Apr 30, 2018 at 2:45 PM
Subject: Twin Metals draft if-asked statement
To: Joe Balash <joseph_balash@ios.doi.gov>, Daniel Jorjani
<daniel.jorjani@sol.doi.gov>, Karen Hawbecker
<karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov>, Laura Rigas <laura_rigas@ios.doi.gov>,
Heather Swift <heather_swift@ios.doi.gov>, John Bockmier
<john_bockmier@ios.doi.gov>, Todd Willens <todd_willens@ios.doi.gov>
Cc: "Wynn, Todd" <todd_wynn@ios.doi.gov>, Benjamin Cassidy
<benjamin_cassidy@ios.doi.gov>, John Tanner <john_tanner@ios.doi.gov>,
Micah Chambers <micah_chambers@ios.doi.gov>, "Kaster, Amanda"
<amanda_kaster@ios.doi.gov>
All - here is a draft if-asked statement for Twin Metals.  We do not plan to do
any proactive communications on this.  
Please review.  Once you review and clear we'll move forward with Joe signing
it.  Timing is later today or tomorrow.  Let me know if that works for everyone. 
Russell
DRAFT -- TMM If-Asked Statement

 April 30, 2018

 

Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor

Energy and Mineral Resources

Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

-Karen Hawbecker
Acting Deputy Solicitor
Energy and Mineral Resources
Office of the Solicitor

U.S. Department of the Interior
1849 C Street N.W. MS 6348
Washington, D.C.  20240
Office: (202) 208-4507
karen.hawbecker@sol.doi.gov

 DRAFT -- TMM lf-Asked Statement
April 30. 2018

 

Formatted: None, Pattern: Clear (White)

 

From:
To:

Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Mashburn, Lori
Alex Hinson; Caroline Boulton; Daniel Jorjani; David Bernhardt; Douglas Domenech; Eli Nachmany; Faith Vander
Voort; Getto, Leila; Holly Lane; James Cason; John Tanner; Laura Rigas; Magallanes, Downey; Mashburn, Lori;
Micah Chambers; Michael Argo; Natalie Davis; Russell Newell; Samantha Hebert; Scott Hommel; Swift, Heather;
Thiele, Aaron; Wesley Bullock; Willens, Todd
Fwd: DOI Cabinet Affairs Report 5/4
Friday, May 4, 2018 1:26:04 PM
DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS 5-4-18.docx

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS –
5/4/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
·         5/4: Personal Travel
NEXT WEEK:
·         5/7-5/8: Personal Day
·         5/9: Cabinet Meeting
o   Preparation for Senate Interior Appropriations FY19 Budget Hearing
·         5/10: Joint Briefing with USDA for Members of Congress re: joint fire
fighting
o   Testify in Senate Interior Appropriations Committee Hearing on FY19
Budget
·         5/11: Remarks at American Boating Congress Annual Advocacy Fly-in
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with NOAA and conducting other internal meetings.
WH COMMS REPORT (Submitted 5/3)
Press Inquiries:
·         Many small and logistical inquiries.
·         New York Times (David Gelles) —REQUEST— I am working on a story
about Patagonia's efforts on the Bears Ears issue. Does the DOI have any
comment about Patagonia, Yvon Chouniard, or the lawsuit? —RESPONSE— The
Department cannot comment on litigation. Regarding the Secretary's action, there
are a number of press releases with quotes from the secretary on our website.
Those releases also have quotes from people who live in and represent Utah.
Additionally, it's important to report that Patagonia lied in their ad campaign as
every acre of federal land in the original monument boundaries remains federal
land today.
·         Maine Public Radio (Steve Mistler) —REQUEST— I’m working on a
story about a pair of television and digital ads that encourage viewers to contact
Interior Secretary Zinke and urge him to keep the Katahdin Woods and Waters
Monument. The ad closely resembles a campaign ad for Lucas St. Clair, a
 Democratic congressional candidate, but it claims to be an issue ad. I’m
wondering if the ad has generated any calls to DOI since it provides a number to
the department and asks viewers to call. Also, the ad acts as if the monument is
under threat from DOI, but my understanding is that the review is complete and
the monument will remain. —RESPONSE— The Department does not comment
on political ads.
·         Big Sky News (Jessianne Wright)  —REQUEST— Recently I read a report
in the Denver Post about some National Park Service reassignments.

 https://www.denverpost.com/2018/04/27/national-park-service-managementshake-up/. Are you able to confirm any of the information reported in the article?
Also, are you able to tell me when a formal announcement will be made regarding
these changes? —RESPONSE— There are no personnel announcements at this
time.
·         Courthouse News (Tim Ryan) —REQUEST— I'm working on a story
about Pastor Robert Soto's petition before the Fish and Wildlife Service regarding
restrictions on the use of eagle feathers in religious ceremonies and I wanted to
reach out to the department for comment. —RESPONSE— TBD
·         E&E News (Kellie Lunney) —REQUEST— I heard that Chuck Laudner,
former aide to Rep. Steve King of Iowa and a Trump campaign official, is joining
NPS as a congressional/legislative affairs advisor/liaison. Wanted to check in with
you all on that, and if that’s correct, get some more details on what he’ll be doing,
etc. —RESPONSE— Chuck joined Interior a few weeks ago. Rebuilding our
National Parks infrastructure is a major legislative priority of the Secretary and
President and Chuck is helping make it happen.
·         E&E (Dylan Brown) —REQUEST— Writing to see if I can confirm that
Interior has reinstated the two leases of Twin Metals Minnesota and get any
statement the department has on how this affects the Twin Metals mine project
moving forward. —RESPONSE— That is correct. Based on a revised legal
opinion, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has reinstated two mineral leases
in northeastern Minnesota held by Twin Metals Minnesota LLC (TMM), whose
predecessor-in-interest first obtained the leases in 1966. The two 1966 leases
were renewed in 1989 and 2004. On December 22, 2017, the Department of the
Interior's Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the Twin Metals​ ​Minnesota
(TMM) 1966 mineral lease terms give TMM a non-discretionary right to a third
renewal of its two leases. By reinstating these leases, the BLM is taking steps to
fulfill its legal obligation to process the company’s application for a third renewal
of these leases in a manner consistent with the lease terms. While the lease
reinstatements would allow TMM to again engage in exploration activities that
BLM had approved previously, they do not authorize TMM to begin mining
operations. The Forest Service’s pending application to withdraw approximately
234,328 acres of National Forest System lands from the operation of federal
mineral and geothermal leasing laws in northern Minnesota does not affect this
lease reinstatement decision because the reinstated leases, which were issued in
2004, pre-date the current segregation. On April __, 2018, the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) reinstated the 2004 leases and TMM’s application to renew
them for a third time.  The reinstated leases will remain in effect until the BLM
acts on the application for a third lease renewal, informed by review under the
National Environmental Policy Act, and subject to reasonable updated terms and
conditions. Because the leases are located within the Superior National Forest in
northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service to
identify the updated stipulations to be included in the leases when renewed.
·         The Atlantic (Elaina Plott) —REQUEST— I'm working on a story about
members of Pruitt's press shop shopping negative and inaccurate stories about
Zinke to many outlets and that now the White House PPO is aware. Is this
something your team is aware of and would you like to comment?
—RESPONSE— DOI declines to comment.
Top Stories:
·         The Economist: The parable of the sage grouse
·         The Atlantic: A Pruitt Aide's Attack on Zinke Angers the White House
Notable Tweets:

 Top Issues, Accomplishments & Awareness:
·         Today, Secretary Zinke attended the National Day of Prayer Service at the
White House.
·         May 4-8 — Personal time.
·         May 9 — Attend Cabinet Meeting.
·         May 10 — Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Interior
Appropriations Committee on the Budget.
·         May 14 — Attend USDA/DOI Joint Fire Signing Ceremony as well as deliver
remarks at DOI Secretarial Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.
·         May 16 — Host a conservation roundtable as well as a reception at Wolf
Trap.
·         May 18-30 — Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Wyoming to meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service
leadership, and deliver energy speeches.
o   Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other
priorities
o   Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o   National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure  
AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 5/2)
WEEK AHEAD May 2 thru May 10, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews:
·         May 2: Secretary Zinke will attend the Swearing-In of Secretary of State
Mike Pompeo
·         May 3: Secretary Zinke will attend the National Day of Prayer Service
·         May 4-8: Secretary’s personal travel
·         May 8: OFFSITE TRAINING EXERCISE WITH SENIOR STAFF (not Sec or
Dep Sec)
·         May 9: Secretary Zinke will attend the Cabinet Meeting
·         May 9: Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before
the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for her confirmation hearing
·         May 10: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations
Committee
·         May 10: Secretary Zinke will attend USDA/DOI Joint Fire Signing
Ceremony
·         May 10: Secretary’s personal trip to Philadelphia
·         May 14: Secretary Zinke will deliver remarks at DOI Secretarial Law
Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.
·         May 16: Secretary Zinke will host a conservation roundtable and later a
reception at Wolf Trap.
·         May 18-30: Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Wyoming to meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service
leadership, and deliver energy speeches:
o    Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other
priorities
o    Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o    National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure  
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS

 ·         May 19: MONUMENTS: In the Secretary’s report to the President on the
National Monuments review, the Secretary recommended that the President
consider the designation of several new monuments. Two candidates mentioned
were Camp Nelson in Kentucky and the Medgar Evers Home in Mississippi. Interior
is developing a set of internal recommendations to release publicly which will
guide monument designation processes. National Park Service staff is visiting
Camp Nelson on May 19 as well as Medgar Evers to start the process.
·         TBD: ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT RULEMAKINGS: During the week
of April 2, Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service
(collectively, the Services) transmitted two proposed rules to OMB that pertain to
the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  The Services are proposing revisions to which
implements listing and critical habitat provisions found in section 4 of ESA. The
proposed revisions would add a framework for interpreting foreseeable future;
clarify that the standards for delisting, reclassification, and listing are the same;
re-define and expand considerations determining that designating critical habitat
is not prudent; and require that occupied habitat be evaluated before unoccupied
habitat when designating critical habitat.  In the second, the Services are
proposing revisions, which implements consultation provisions found in section 7
of the Act. The proposed revisions would address alternative consultation
mechanisms, clarify the phrase "effects of the action," revise the definition of
"destruction or adverse modification," address certainty of mitigation proposed by
action agencies, and otherwise improve the consultation process. In a third
submission to OMB, FWS will transmit a proposed rule to remove the blanket 4(d)
rule, which currently applies the endangered species protections to threatened
species. The proposed regulations would require FWS to determine what, if any,
protective regulations are appropriate for species that the Service in the future
determines to be a threatened species on a case-by-case basis. This action would
bring the regulation into the same application as NMFS currently applies it.
Social Media
·         May 7 (tent.): DOI-level blog post: Interior will publish a blog post
highlighting some of the jobs at Interior for Public Service Recognition Week. 
·         May 10: DOI-level blog post: Interior will publish a blog post about
some of the hardworking moms in the animal kingdom in advance of Mother's
Day.
National Park Service
·         May 6: Local NPS Release: Yosemite National Park will complete a pilot
traffic- management program aimed at increasing safety and minimizing long lines
at the Arch Rock Entrance Station on California Route 140. The park is working
with the California Department of Transportation and the California Highway
Patrol to temporarily stop vehicles on the road leading to the park, allowing traffic
to incrementally enter the park on the popular road. This is one of the pilot
programs the park is implementing to address traffic congestion, ensure visitor
access, and address safety concerns for park visitors.
·         May 7 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Saguaro National Park will initiate a
two week public comment period for an Environmental Assessment (EA) to
analyze impacts of the continued traditional harvesting of Saguaro Fruit and
Cholla Buds by the Tohono O'odham Nation (TON) within Park boundaries. This
EA is a requirement of the August 2016 NPS rule, Gathering of Certain Plants by

 Federally Recognized Indian Tribes for Traditional Purposes (36 CFR 2.6) to
establish a management framework for tribes to gather certain plant parts within
NPS units for traditional purposes. The harvesting of Saguaro Fruit and Cholla
Buds is a longstanding tradition of the TON members.
·         May 7 (tent.): Local NPS Release: the NPS expects to complete a land
exchange between Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Northern Indiana Public
Service Company (NIPSCO). The NPS will convey an easement valued at $41,000
to NIPSCO, allowing them to install a 24" diameter high-pressure natural gas line
on Federal land.  In exchange, NIPSCO will convey fee title to the United States
for Tract 02-198 valued at $17,000, in addition to a cash payment of $24,000 into
the Land and Water Conservation Fund, resulting in an equal value exchange.
·         May 7 - 10: A NPS planning team will host several public meetings
throughout the State of Mississippi as part of the civic engagement phase of a
special resource study (SRS) looking at significant civil rights sites in Mississippi,
including locations related to the life and murder of Medgar Evers, the lynching of
Emmett Till and the murder of three freedom riders. The team will visit five
different communities across the state containing resources that were identified in
the legislation requiring the SRS. The study will evaluate the potential for inclusion
of each site in the national park system based on whether it meets
Congressionally-established criteria for significance, suitability, feasibility, and
need for NPS management. Representatives from Congressman Bennie
Thompson's office and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History are
expected to participate in the public meetings. PEPC site:
 https://parkplanning.nps.gov/MSCR_SRS.
·         May 7 (tent.): A spending plan will be developed and submitted to the
Department for approval for the new Historic Preservation Fund grant program
subgrant program (yet to be named). $5.0 million in physical preservation funding
was passed as part of the FY 2018 budget to grant "block grant" funding to
organizations that will subgrant funding to  historic properties of national, State,
and local significance listed in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of
Historic Places. Development of a spending plan was mandated in the
appropriations language. Preservation partners may have questions about the
stage of development of this program.
·         May 7 – 10: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staff are participating
in a four-day workshop hosted by BLM to discuss alternatives regarding the Grand
Staircase Escalante National Monument and Kanab Field Office – Escalante Area
Resource Management Plans. On April 10, the park and the BLM held its first
cooperating agency meeting. The NPS agreed to be a cooperating agency during
this planning effort with Glen Canyon National Recreation Area functioning as the
NPS point of contact. Consolidated comments from all involved NPS park units
were reviewed by the regional office and sent to the BLM on April 13.
·         May 8 – 9: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is hosting two public open
house meetings to solicit public feedback related to visitor use management
within the westernmost portion of the lakeshore. The public will be invited to
comment online at the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC)
website https://parkplanning.nps.gov/PIRO_VUMplan between May 8 and June 6,
2018.
·         May 9: Local NPS Release: Devils Postpile National Monument will
announce the temporary summer closure to camping at its 20-site campground to
accommodate expanded day-use. The campground area will be open for parking,
picnicking, and provide improved river access for fishing. The monument will be
developing a long-term plan for the campground to better meet visitor needs.
Campers will be encouraged to use the six U.S. Forest Service campground

 located in the immediate vicinity of the park.
·         May 10: Golden Spike National Historic Site is celebrating its 149th
anniversary to mark the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. As part
of that process, the park is working through concerns raised by the local (Utah)
Chinese community regarding whether or not invitations should go to members of
Taiwanese organizations, specifically, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office
(TECO) in San Francisco. The TECO and other Taiwanese groups have been longtime supporters and regular participants in the ceremony which, in part, honors
the 1860s era Chinese railroad workers. Representatives for the Utah Chinese
Civic Center recommended that the NPS extended an invitation to the Chinese
Consulate, which Superintendent Crossland is coordinating with the NPS Office of
International Affairs; however, the​y implied that participation on behalf of the
Chinese community would be limited based on continuing involvement from the
TECO.
·         May 10 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Death Valley National Park
anticipates releasing the final Bonnie Clare Road Reconstruction Environmental
Assessment and FONSI. Reconstruction work is scheduled to start in August 2018
and be completed by May 2019. This will allow reopening of the northeast
entrance to the park and restore public access to Scotty's Castle after massive
damage from flooding in October 2015. PEPC link.
·         May 10 (tent.) Local NPS Release: Death Valley National Park and the
Ridgecrest BLM office anticipate opening a public comment period on the
Keystone Mine Plan of Operations Amendment and accompanying Environmental
Assessment. The mine is on BLM land near the park's western border, but the
mining plan includes the use of water rights within the park.
·         May 10 (tent.): Death Valley National Park anticipates releasing the final
Scotty's Castle Flood Rehabilitation Environmental Assessment and FONSI. This
document analyzes repair work planned for historic structures, the cultural
landscape, utilities, parking, and walkways to recover from damage from a flash
flood in October 2015. The historic district is scheduled to reopen to the public in
2020. PEPC link.
·         May 10 – 11: NPS will hold public forums and stakeholder sessions to
present the Savannah National Historic Landmark District Integrity & Assessment
report. Public comments on the report are also being accepted through June 30.
·         May TBD: NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession contracts
to provide cruise ship services at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Two of
the contracts are set aside for the two historic operators identified through the
Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) legislation. Cruise ship
services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10 year basis. New
contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in accordance with both
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve-specific legislation and NPS law and policy.
Contracts will be awarded by late October, 2019. The prospectus is in final
Department and Solicitor review.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
·         May 4 (tent.): Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination
on the proposal to reclassify the Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to
threatened. This plant species has shown significant recovery due in part to
collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
·         May 4 (tent.): FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database.
As part of the Species Status Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is
developing the database to record conservation plans and actions that benefit

 monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases. The first phase
begins between May 4 and May 11 when FWS opens the database to a select
group for user testing; the second phase will begin two to three weeks later when
it is made available to all users to enter data; and the third phase will make the
database available to users to access and view data. The information in the
database will help the Service and monarch conservation partners continue
working strategically to improve conditions for monarchs. The database is also a
tool for conducting the Species Status Assessment and for determining whether
listing as an endangered species is warranted. FWS will notify stakeholders and
potential database users of the launch; wider outreach is not anticipated.
·         May 6 (tent.): FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the
Notice of Intent (NOI) to conduct a 30-day public scoping period and prepare an
environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project
Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the issuance of an incidental take
permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a proposed wind
energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be
controversial with conservation organizations.
·         May 7 (tent.): Local FWS Release: FWS will announce the downlisting
of the endangered Kuenzler hedgehog cactus to threatened status. This is based
on 5-year reviews, response to a petition to downlist the plant (and four other
southwest species), and discovery of additional populations greatly expanding the
species’ known range.
·         May 7 (tent.): FWS will do selected outreach, including selective media
coverage, regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FWS and
Monsanto. In addition, a field-based demonstration event is being planned for late
summer/early fall. FWS Midwest Region has been exploring the possibility of a
partnership with Monsanto, and its subsidiaries, to use modern agriculture data
tools to help landowners voluntarily manage their land to enhance pollinator
habitat while maximizing production in their fields.
·         May 7 (tent.): The final frameworks for the 2018-2019 migratory bird
hunting seasons will public in the federal register. The effect of the rule is to
facilitate the States’ selection of hunting seasons and to further the annual
establishment of the migratory bird hunting regulations.
·         May 8: FWS Northeast Regional Director Wendi Weber will give a keynote
address at the 36th Annual National Native American Fish and Wildlife Society
Conference. This year’s conference is hosted by the Narragansett Tribe and is
being held in Providence, Rhode Island. FWS will provide presentations on coastal
resilience projects in Rhode Island, eagle policy and permitting, white-nose
syndrome in bats, and a possible field trip to the Rhode Island NWR complex.
·         May TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will release less than 14-day-old
captive-born Mexican wolf pups into established wild Mexican wolf dens on federal
land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona Game and Fish Department's Mexican
wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team) lead
the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role except for
providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico. The window of
opportunity is very narrow to identify pups born in captivity with a den of pups in
the wild that are very close in age (under a week old). The Mexican wolf recovery

 team will only have a very short time (72 - 48 hours) to get a cross-foster mission
lined up for execution. Because of that, in the draft news release to announce a
successful cross-foster event, the dates in draft will be open. Select reporters will
be invited to attend.
·         May TBD: National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the Federal
Register a proposed rule and open a 30-day public comment period on the 201819 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The proposed rule
would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting and/or sport
fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
Outreach is planned to include a national news release when the Federal Register
notice is published and notifications to members of Congress in affected districts,
with some stakeholder outreach.
Bureau of Land Management
·         Week of April 29 – May 5: Casey Hammond is representing ASLM at the
Institute of the North’s Week of the Arctic Economic Development Summit on
Responsible Mineral Development in the Arctic in Anchorage, Alaska.
May 1-7: Local BLM Release: BLM will announce that the Department of
Energy, Office of Legacy Management, has applied to BLM for withdrawal of
approximately 361 acres of public land surrounding part of its Central Nevada
Test Area. The CNTA consists of three parcels of withdrawn public lands in Hot
Creek Valley, approximately 70 miles northeast of Tonopah.  One 640-acre parcel
was the site of an underground nuclear test in 1968, which resulted in a
determination that the CNTA was unsuitable for further nuclear testing. These
lands are currently withdrawn from all forms of appropriation under the public
land laws, including the mining laws, and the mineral leasing laws. The DOE,
which monitors the CNTA, has determined that an additional 361 acres needs to
be withdrawn to prevent disturbance to residual subsurface contamination.
·         May 2-7 (tent.): Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce
publication of the Notice of Availability for the Final Environmental Impact
Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL) Project. The proposed
project includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10year period on approximately 140,000 acres.
·         May 4: Local BLM Release: BLM Nevada will announce it is seeking
public comments on an environmental assessment associated with the proposed
withdrawal of 769,724 acres of federal land in Churchill, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, and
Pershing Counties, NV, for the possible expansion of the Department of the
Navy’s Fallon Range Training Complex. FRTC is the premier range for naval
aviation strike warfare training.
·         May 4: Local BLM Release: BLM Eastern States will submit a Federal
Register Notice to conduct a competitive coal lease sale re-offering 160 acres of
federal mineral estate in Jefferson County, Alabama.
·         May 4: Congressman Amodei (R-NV) will meet with BLM Acting NV Sate
Director Mike Courtney and NV Associate State Director Marci Todd to discuss
PWR 107 water issues. The meeting will take place at the Nevada state office.
·         May 4: Local BLM Release: The BLM Idaho, Owyhee Field Office, will
announce it is finalizing its assessment of Idaho’s Standards of Rangeland Health
and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management for the Rockville Allotment, and
plans to initiate public scoping.
·         May 2-7 (tent.): Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by
Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by Application covers a total of 3,581

 acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the surface are
administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The
area contains 44.9 million tons of recoverable coal.  Based on extensive
environmental analysis, the preferred alternative would provide approximately 30
million tons for lease.  The Final EIS, based on two million tons of production
annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and indirectly
affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
·         May TBD: National BLM Release - Announcing Wild Horse and Burro
2018 Adoption Schedule – Communications materials under development. 
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
·         May 7-8: The New York State Energy Research and Development
Authority (NYSERDA) will be holding public information meetings on Long Island
prior to the NY Bight Task Force.
·         May 8: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a public
meeting focused on collecting information regarding fisheries usage of the NY
Bight. The meeting will be held in West Long Branch, NJ.
·         May 9: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a New
York Bight Renewable Energy Intergovernmental Task Force meeting in
NJ. Deputy ASLM Kate MacGregor and BOEM Acting Director Cruickshank
expected to attend.
·         May 10: Michelle Morin from the Office of Renewable Energy Programs
will participate on the panel Is Change in the Wind? during the Infrastructure
Review and Permitting Conference.
·         May 7-11: Marine Geological and Biological Habitat Mapping (GeoHab)
2018 Conference in Santa Barbara, CA.  BOEM and USGS will sponsor and co-chair
the annual conference and lead the International Scientific Committee. Session
themes of interest include (1) Mapping, planning and impact assessment for
ocean energy, (2) Marine Minerals: A new GeoHab frontier, (3) Seeps and
hydrates, and (4) Deep water coral habitats. BOEM participation will include
chairing select sessions, presentations and posters, and staffing an exhibit. Pacific
OPA will support.
·         May TBD:  BOEM Note to Stakeholders:  BOEM will announce that the
Marine Minerals Program is developing a Draft Environmental Assessment for sand
management activities in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical
and geophysical surveys for resource identification, research studies, and
monitoring borrow areas. In addition to the NTS, MMP staff will post the draft EA
to the BOEM website by the end of May, and share with a targeted list of
stakeholders for comment.
Bureau of Reclamation
·         May 7: Reclamation will host a media tour at the Teton Dam site to
discuss public safety and unauthorized access issues. Teton Dam catastrophically
failed on June 5, 1976, as it was filling for the first time. Trespass and vandalism
incidents have been increasing, and hazardous conditions are present throughout
the site.
·         Between May 7 and 9: Reclamation Deputy Commissioner Alan
Mikkelsen will be in the Klamath Basin meeting with stakeholders. His focus will be
rolling out draft principles for a comprehensive basin-wide water and resource
management plan. Media interest is expected.
·         May 7-8: Commissioner Brenda Burman and her senior leadership will be
participating in varying degrees in a COOP exercise and will be offsite of the

 Interior building.
·         May 9:  The Yakima Basin Integrated Plan (Integrated Plan)
Implementation Committee will provide an Integrated Plan update briefing for the
Integrated Plan DC Leadership Group. Meeting / briefing will be chaired by
Assistant Secretary for Water and Science (ASWS) Tim Petty; with presentations
and updates being given by Implementation Committee members (in person) and
Reclamation Regional staff (via phone). Since 2013, the ASWS has facilitated biannual meetings of the Implementation Committee and DC Leadership Group,
helping to advance Integrated Plan projects using State, federal, and
private funding and collaboration.
·         May 8-11: The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) will hold
its spring conference, “2018: CA Water: Building for the Future,” in Sacramento.
Deputy Secretary David Bernhardt, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and
Science Austin Ewell and regional directors are scheduled to speak. ACWA is the
nation’s largest statewide coalition of public water agencies with 430 public
agency members responsible for 90 percent of the water delivered to California
cities, farms and businesses. Media interest is expected.
Office of Wildland Fire
·         May TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to
provide guidance on the upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review
and will be coordinated with USDA.
U.S. Geological Survey
·         May TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a
paper examining the practical limits of an earthquake early warning system, but
studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical quake in northern California. Will
be published in Science Advances.
·         May TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance
of Mineral Materials for Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and
Natural Resources Canada conducted a study on the net import reliance of the
United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries and as a single trading
bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with advanced
technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium,
graphite, indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
·         Bureau of Indian Affairs Director Tony Dearman will speak at a meeting
with Congressman Schaefer, congressional staffers regarding a letter sent to DOI
from the Oregon Congressional Delegation.
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 5/1)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES
REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy
Act of 2005.  It directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide a report to Congress
within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates at least
every 5 years.  
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management

 UPCOMING SENR OVERSIGHT HEARING: The Senate on Energy and Natural
Resources’ Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining is holding an
oversight hearing to examine the law enforcement programs at the Bureau of Land
Management and U.S. Forest Service, coordination with other federal, state and local
law enforcement, and the effects on rural communities.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster and Blake Deeley, Advisors, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs will hold a confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant
Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations
Subcommittee will be holding a hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be
the witness.
Timing: May 10, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING SCIA OVERSIGHT HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs will hold an oversight hearing on Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) school
safety and efforts to implement Office of Inspector General and Government
Accountability Office recommendations that pertain to student safety.
Timing: May 16, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson
(Solicitor) were reported out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both placed on the Senate
calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats. We
are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these
nominees.
·         Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to
the WH at the end of December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some
questions with the Office of Government Ethics.
·         Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION
ACT: DOI continues the ongoing process of supporting the Public Lands
Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both the President’s FY19 Budget and the
Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a House Natural
Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for
maintenance updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators
Alexander, Daines, Capito, Gardner and Tillis to introduce language that was built off
of the FY19 Budget proposal, the National Parks Restoration Act. The bill has
bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS Deputy Director, Daniel
Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on
the bill. On April 17, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a

 hearing to Examine Deferred Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National
Park Service. A legislative hearing on the bill text is expected soon, but nothing has
been scheduled.  
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke
has informally notified the House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding
FY18 implementation of new shared regional boundaries across Interior’s bureaus.
Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19 appropriations
committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI
believes it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each
of the 10 bureaus have different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new
approach has bureaus share unified boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted
to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing unified regions will improve the
timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by allowing senior
managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to
demonstrate the advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to
moving parts of the headquarters of BLM, FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior
successfully worked with the appropriations committee majority staff to avoid an
effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the reorganization
in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing  
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of
the Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS (updates in bold)
Accepted:
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/11 - National Marine Manufactures Association’s American Boating
Congress Annual FlyIn (DC)
5/13 – National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund 30th Annual
Candlelight Vigil (DC)
5/14  DOI Law Enforcement Ceremony (DC)
5/16 – Wolf Trap Foundation Congressional Reception (DC)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
6/12 - USMC Sunset Parade Guest of Honor (DC)
6/12 - National Park Foundation's 50th Anniversary Event (DC)
6/25-27 - Western Governors Associaiton Annual Meeting (Rapid City, SD)
7/3 - Grand Opening of the Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)
7/4 - DOI's Independence Day Reception (DC)
8/10-11 Steamboat Institute Annual Freedom Conference & Festival
(Steamboat, CO)
 
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
5/18 Remarks at Laffer Associates 58th Annual Washington Conference
(DC)

 5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)
5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
6/3-6 National Congress of American Indians Midyear Conference (Kansas
City, MO)
6/4 Close up Foundation (DC)
6/8 Annual Victims of Communism Wreath Laying Ceremony (DC)
6/14 Yosmite National Park Mariposa Grove Dedication Ceremony (CA)
6/5 South Central Industrial Association Annual Banquet (Houma, LA)
6/15 Corps Network Annual Great Outdoors Day of Service event (DC)
6/15 Klamath Community College Commencement (Klamath Falls, OR)
6/15 Latino Coalition Small Business Rising Summit (Irvine, CA)
6/16 Montana Youth Challenge Graduation
6/16 Arlington/Fairfax Izaak Walton League of America and Club Run
Archers Annual Charity Fundraiser (Centerville, VA)
6/19 Farm Bureau Wester Region Conference (Kalispell, MT)
6/20-22 US Department of Commerce Investment Conference (National
Harbor, MD)
6/22 Music at the Monument (DC)
6/25-29 World Gas Conference (DC)
7/9 Yellow Ribbon Fund Annual Golf Tournament (Arlington, VA)
7/11 North American Outfitter Association (Bozeman, MT)
7/14 Wildlife 2018 (San Antonio, TX)
7/17-18 Domestic Energy Producers Alliance Meeting (DC)
7/23-24 Conference of Western Attorney General Annual Meeting
(Bernalillo, NM)
8/21-22 Remarks at Colordo Oil and Gas Association Annual Energy
Summit (Denver, CO)
Declining:
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)
5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
5/9-11 Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association Conference
(Salt Lake City, UT)
5/15 Honor our Heroes Day (Montana)
5/16-19 Mansfield Water Summit (Whitefish, Montana)
5/18 National Capital Friends of NRA Banquet (Arlington, VA)
5/19 Crystal Gala in the Park (Glen Echo, MD)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting
(Toppenish, WA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)
5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/27 Rolling Thunder Demonstration Run (DC)
5/30 Arizona Mining Annual Meeting & Golf Tournament (Tucson, AZ)
6/2 Battle of Midway 76th Commemoration Ceremony (HI)
6/3-8 Montana American Legion Boys State for the 2018 session (Helena,
MT)
6/4-6 Investment Migration Forum (Kempinski, MT)
6/12 Southeastern Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners
(Charleston, SC)
6/14 Montana Stock growers Association Midyear Meeting (Dillion, MT)

 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
​Kilauea Volcano - Hawaii
USGS reports that lava spattering and gas bursts erupted from the lower East Rift
Zone of Kilauea Volcano for approximately two hours overnight, resulting in lava
spreading a short distance from the fissure, approximately 33 feet. USGS personnel
are working near the fissure to track additional activity and note that at this time, the
fissure is no longer erupting and no other fissures have erupted. A string of recent
activity at Kilauea included a magnitude 5.0 earthquake and several smaller
aftershocks that occurred yesterday. These caused a short-lived plume of ash that
dissipated as it drifted southwest from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō. The Governor of Hawaii has
declared a state of emergency and the National Guard has been activated to assist
with evacuating approximately 1,700 residents and to provide security at the over
750 structures left empty due to evacuations. According to the Hawaii County Civil
Defense Agency, the local fire department has detected extremely high levels of
dangerous sulfur dioxide gas in the evacuation area. USGS reports that this is typical
for active and recently active fissures. At this time, there have been no reported
impacts to DOI personnel, lands, or facilities.
Flooding - Maine
Although statewide water levels have receded, USGS continues to assist the National
Weather Service and emergency management agencies with flood support around
Fort Kent, Maine. The Fish River in northern Maine remains at a 100-year flood and
USGS personnel have installed a Rapid Deployment Gage on the Fish River at Soldier
Pond. The data from this site, which is in a remote area of Maine, will provide
necessary information to the National Weather Service and local emergency
management agencies. 
OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
A Pruitt Aide’s Attack On Zinke Angers The White House.
The Atlantic (5/3, Plott) reports that “as Environmental Protection Agency
Administrator Scott Pruitt faces a seemingly endless stream of scandal, his team is
scrambling to divert the spotlight to Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke.” In the last week,
the article says, “a member of Pruitt’s press team, Michael Abboud, has been
shopping negative stories about Zinke to multiple outlets, according to two sources
with direct knowledge of the efforts, as well as correspondence reviewed by The
Atlantic.”
        Business Insider (5/3, Relman) reports that “several reporters rejected the
stories that Abboud shopped, citing a lack of evidence, even as it was published by
Patrick Howley of Big League Politics, a right-wing website founded by former
Breitbart News employees.” The Interior Department’s White House liaison
“reportedly complained about Abboud’s behavior to the White House Presidential
Personnel Office, where officials were ‘enraged.’”
        Also reporting are the New York Daily News (5/3, Sommerfeldt), the Daily
Beast (5/3), Government Executive (5/3, Plott), The Week (5/3, Alters),
and Vox (5/3, Golshan).
Lawmakers, Industry Leaders Attend RV Industry Power Breakfast.
WBND-TV South Bend, IN (5/3, Fixler) reports that “the 6th Annual RV Industry
Power Breakfast was held Thursday morning at the Northern Indiana Event Center.”
According to the article, “more than 900 people attended the breakfast to show their
support and the new success of the business.” The Goshen (IN) News (5/3, Selman)

 reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke was “scheduled to speak but had to stay in
Washington.” Zinke sent Rick May, his senior national adviser, in his stead.
        Additional coverage was provided by WBND-TV South Bend, IN (5/3, Corak).
Environmental-Review Policy Draws Fire   Western Colorado  
Gjsentinel.com.
The Grand Junction (CO) Daily Sentinel (5/4, Harmon) reports that “an Interior
Department official said Wednesday in Grand Junction that the Trump administration
was moving to speed up the time agencies have to deal with environmental studies,
specifically through the National Environmental Policy Act.” But “the move to require
federal agencies to conduct environmental analyses within a year and cap reports to
100 pages ‘flies in the face of common sense and only further promotes conflicts
between public lands stakeholders,’ said Jace Woodrum, communications director for
Conservation Colorado.” Woodrum said, “This administration has adopted the point of
view that public involvement and public comments on federal actions is a burden to
their short-sighted agenda of ‘Energy Dominance.’”
Continued Friction Over Indian Education Funding?
Politico (5/3, Hefling) reports that “Interior Department officials based in Washington,
including Bureau of Indian Education Director Tony Dearman, opted to skip a tribal
consultation organized April 22 in Albuquerque by the Education Department to
discuss federal education issues.” Faith C. Vander Voort, a spokeswoman for the
Interior Department, “noted in an email that the consultation was organized by the
Education Department. She said Dearman and John Tahsuda III, the department’s
principal deputy assistant secretary, weren’t able to adjust their schedules to attend
because of the ‘short lead time.’” However, “she said some local BIE school personnel
attended ‘at least part of the session.’”
Tribal Pastor Fights US On Eagle Feather Restrictions.
Courthouse News (5/3, Ryan) reports that “a Native American feather dancer asked
the U.S. government Thursday to end its restrictions on tribes using eagle feathers in
religious ceremonies.” The article notes that “the petition by Robert Soto, vicechairman of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, comes more than a decade after an
undercover federal agent raided his powwow and confiscated roughly 50 eagle
feathers.” Soto, who serves as pastor of the McAllen Grace Brethren Church, “says
the current arrangement ‘leaves millions of religious believers in legal jeopardy’ and
violates the Fifth Amendment, as well as the free exercise and establishment clauses
of the First Amendment.”
        Additional coverage was provided by Law360 (5/3, Westney).
Interior Agency Blocks Group Of Archaeologists From Attending Scientific
Conference.
The Washington Post (5/3, Grandoni) reports that the Bureau of Land Management
“blocked at least 14 of its staff archaeologists and other specialists from attending a
major scientific conference this year, at a time when archeological sites have become
a flashpoint in the debate over public lands protection.” According to the article, “the
archeologists and other BLM employees, many working and living in Western states,
were originally scheduled to attend the annual meeting of the Society for American
Archaeology, the largest organization of professional archaeologists in the Western
Hemisphere.” However, “officials at BLM’s headquarters in Washington only
authorized the attendance of three archaeologists, citing ‘the potential travel and
other costs’ of the trips.” BLM spokeswoman Amber Cargile said, “The decision was

 made after reviewing the conference topics and agenda, and we sent the people who
could best represent the BLM. We value our professional relationship with SAA and
the important role our archaeologists play in the Bureau’s multiple use mission.”
        Also reporting is KBSC-FM Boise, ID (5/3, Peacher).
Hawaii Volcano Erupts; County Issues Evacuation Orders.
The AP (5/3, Jones) reports that “Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano erupted Thursday,
releasing lava into a residential neighborhood and prompting mandatory evacuation
orders for nearby homes.” CNN(5/4, Park, Sutton) reports that “the eruption affected
Leilani Estates, a subdivision in the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea volcano, according
to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.”
        Also reporting is the Big Island (HI) Video News (5/3).
        5.0 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Hawaii As Residents Ready For Possible Lava
Eruption. NPR(5/3, Romo) reports that “a 5.0 magnitude earthquake on
Thursday rocked several communities on the Big Island that are already bracing for a
possible volcanic eruption after hundreds of small earthquakes jolted the region.” The
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory “said the quake, which struck at 10:30 a.m. local time,
‘caused rockfalls and possibly an additional collapse’ into the Pu’u O’o, a crater on the
Kilauea volcano that has been slowly crumbling.” According to geologists, “the
ongoing temblors – more than 600 in the past three days – are an indication that lava
could break through the surface at any time.”
        Also reporting is the AP (5/3, Jones).
BOEM’s Director Says Agency Continues To Carry Out Trump’s Offshore
Agenda.
World Oil (5/3, Abraham) reports that during a luncheon speech this week at the
2018 Offshore Technology Conference, acting Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Director Dr. Walter Cruickshank “delivered an update on the state of offshore activity
and regulation.” Referring to the American First Offshore Energy Executive Order
issued last April, he said, “We are making progress in implementing the components”
of it. He also touted current OCS activity, and “said that offshore projects continue to
add considerable value to U.S. energy assets.” He stated, “The OCS supports $55
billion in spending and 350,000 jobs,” and that “we estimate that undiscovered
resources total 90 Bbbl of oil and 327 Tcf of natural gas.”
Service Seeks Public Comment On Proposed Wind Facility.
The Nisqually Valley (WA) News (5/3) reports that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
is seeking public input “as part of the development of an Environmental Impact
Statement for a proposed wind energy project in Lewis and Thurston counties.” The
proposed Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project “would consist of up to 38 commercial
wind turbines and associated infrastructure.” Comments may be submitted
through June 4.
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:
REG0007965 BLM Notice of Availability of the Final Environmental Impact Statement
for the Enefit American Oil Utility Corridor Project, Uintah County, Utah -- The Bureau
of Land Management (BLM) announces the availability of a Final Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Enefit American Oil (Enefit) Utility Corridor
Project in Uintah County, Utah.  The BLM also announces a 45-day waiting period
before it will make any final decisions on the Project. Notice 05/03/2018
REG0008003 BLM Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement

 and Notice of Segregation for the Proposed Yellow Pine Solar Project, Clark County,
Nevada -- The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announces its intent to prepare an
environmental impact statement (EIS) for the proposed Yellow Pine Solar Project in
Clark County, Nevada.  The BLM also temporarily segregates certain public lands from
appropriation under the public land laws, including the Mining Law, subject to valid
existing rights.  This Notice initiates a 90-day public scoping period and the
temporary segregation. Notice 05/03/2018
REG0008134 BLM Notice of Availability of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement
for the Proposed Blue Valley Land Exchange, Grand and Summit Counties, Colorado - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announces the availability of a Draft
Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Blue Valley Land Exchange
in Colorado.  The BLM requests public comments over 45 days. Notice 05/03/2018
REG0008118 FWS Habitat Conservation Plan for South Sacramento County,
California; Final Joint Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report
-- The final EIS/EIR and the final HCP documents will be available for a 30-day public
review, as required by NEPA regulations and ESA policies. The HCP addresses 28
covered species, including 7 federally listed species. Notice 05/03/2018
Lori K. Mashburn
White House Liaison & Senior Advisor to the Secretary
Department of the Interior
202.208.1694
NOTE: Every email I send or receive is subject to release under the Freedom of
Information Act.

 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR DAILY UPDATE FOR CABINET AFFAIRS – 5/4/2018
Lori Mashburn, White House Liaison
Natalie Davis, Deputy White House Liaison
STATUS OF THE SECRETARY
THIS WEEK:
• 5/4: Personal Travel
NEXT WEEK:
• 5/7-5/8: Personal Day
• 5/9: Cabinet Meeting
o Preparation for Senate Interior Appropriations FY19 Budget Hearing
• 5/10: Joint Briefing with USDA for Members of Congress re: joint fire fighting
o Testify in Senate Interior Appropriations Committee Hearing on FY19 Budget
• 5/11: Remarks at American Boating Congress Annual Advocacy Fly-in
STATUS OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY
TODAY: In DC meeting with NOAA and conducting other internal meetings.
WH COMMS REPORT (Submitted 5/3)
Press Inquiries:
• Many small and logistical inquiries.
• New York Times (David Gelles) —REQUEST— I am working on a story about Patagonia's efforts on
the Bears Ears issue. Does the DOI have any comment about Patagonia, Yvon Chouniard, or the
lawsuit? —RESPONSE— The Department cannot comment on litigation. Regarding the Secretary's
action, there are a number of press releases with quotes from the secretary on our website. Those
releases also have quotes from people who live in and represent Utah. Additionally, it's important to
report that Patagonia lied in their ad campaign as every acre of federal land in the original
monument boundaries remains federal land today.
• Maine Public Radio (Steve Mistler) —REQUEST— I’m working on a story about a pair of television
and digital ads that encourage viewers to contact Interior Secretary Zinke and urge him to keep the
Katahdin Woods and Waters Monument. The ad closely resembles a campaign ad for Lucas St. Clair,
a Democratic congressional candidate, but it claims to be an issue ad. I’m wondering if the ad has
generated any calls to DOI since it provides a number to the department and asks viewers to call.
Also, the ad acts as if the monument is under threat from DOI, but my understanding is that the
review is complete and the monument will remain. —RESPONSE— The Department does not
comment on political ads.
• Big Sky News (Jessianne Wright) —REQUEST— Recently I read a report in the Denver Post about
some National Park Service reassignments. https://www.denverpost.com/2018/04/27/nationalpark-service-management-shake-up/. Are you able to confirm any of the information reported in the
article? Also, are you able to tell me when a formal announcement will be made regarding these
changes? —RESPONSE— There are no personnel announcements at this time.
• Courthouse News (Tim Ryan) —REQUEST— I'm working on a story about Pastor Robert Soto's
petition before the Fish and Wildlife Service regarding restrictions on the use of eagle feathers in
religious ceremonies and I wanted to reach out to the department for comment. —RESPONSE—
TBD

 •

•

•

E&E News (Kellie Lunney) —REQUEST— I heard that Chuck Laudner, former aide to Rep. Steve King
of Iowa and a Trump campaign official, is joining NPS as a congressional/legislative affairs
advisor/liaison. Wanted to check in with you all on that, and if that’s correct, get some more details
on what he’ll be doing, etc. —RESPONSE— Chuck joined Interior a few weeks ago. Rebuilding our
National Parks infrastructure is a major legislative priority of the Secretary and President and Chuck
is helping make it happen.
E&E (Dylan Brown) —REQUEST— Writing to see if I can confirm that Interior has reinstated the two
leases of Twin Metals Minnesota and get any statement the department has on how this affects the
Twin Metals mine project moving forward. —RESPONSE— That is correct. Based on a revised legal
opinion, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has reinstated two mineral leases in northeastern
Minnesota held by Twin Metals Minnesota LLC (TMM), whose predecessor-in-interest first obtained
the leases in 1966. The two 1966 leases were renewed in 1989 and 2004. On December 22, 2017,
the Department of the Interior's Solicitor issued an opinion concluding that the Twin Metals
Minnesota (TMM) 1966 mineral lease terms give TMM a non-discretionary right to a third renewal
of its two leases. By reinstating these leases, the BLM is taking steps to fulfill its legal obligation to
process the company’s application for a third renewal of these leases in a manner consistent with
the lease terms. While the lease reinstatements would allow TMM to again engage in exploration
activities that BLM had approved previously, they do not authorize TMM to begin mining
operations. The Forest Service’s pending application to withdraw approximately 234,328 acres of
National Forest System lands from the operation of federal mineral and geothermal leasing laws in
northern Minnesota does not affect this lease reinstatement decision because the reinstated leases,
which were issued in 2004, pre-date the current segregation. On April __, 2018, the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) reinstated the 2004 leases and TMM’s application to renew them for a third
time. The reinstated leases will remain in effect until the BLM acts on the application for a third
lease renewal, informed by review under the National Environmental Policy Act, and subject to
reasonable updated terms and conditions. Because the leases are located within the Superior
National Forest in northern Minnesota, the BLM will coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service to
identify the updated stipulations to be included in the leases when renewed.
The Atlantic (Elaina Plott) —REQUEST— I'm working on a story about members of Pruitt's press
shop shopping negative and inaccurate stories about Zinke to many outlets and that now the White
House PPO is aware. Is this something your team is aware of and would you like to comment? —
RESPONSE— DOI declines to comment.

Top Stories:
• The Economist: The parable of the sage grouse
• The Atlantic: A Pruitt Aide's Attack on Zinke Angers the White House
Notable Tweets:

 Top Issues, Accomplishments & Awareness:
• Today, Secretary Zinke attended the National Day of Prayer Service at the White House.
• May 4-8 — Personal time.
• May 9 — Attend Cabinet Meeting.
• May 10 — Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Interior Appropriations Committee on the
Budget.
• May 14 — Attend USDA/DOI Joint Fire Signing Ceremony as well as deliver remarks at DOI
Secretarial Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.
• May 16 — Host a conservation roundtable as well as a reception at Wolf Trap.
• May 18-30 — Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming
to meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service leadership, and deliver energy speeches.
o Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other priorities
o Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure
AGENCY MEDIA (submitted 5/2)
WEEK AHEAD May 2 thru May 10, 2018
Announcements/Releases/Events
U.S. Department of the Interior
Secretarial-level Announcements/Events/Interviews:
• May 2: Secretary Zinke will attend the Swearing-In of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo
• May 3: Secretary Zinke will attend the National Day of Prayer Service
• May 4-8: Secretary’s personal travel
• May 8: OFFSITE TRAINING EXERCISE WITH SENIOR STAFF (not Sec or Dep Sec)
• May 9: Secretary Zinke will attend the Cabinet Meeting
• May 9: Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on
Indian Affairs for her confirmation hearing
• May 10: Secretary Zinke will testify before the Senate Appropriations Committee
• May 10: Secretary Zinke will attend USDA/DOI Joint Fire Signing Ceremony
• May 10: Secretary’s personal trip to Philadelphia

 May 14: Secretary Zinke will deliver remarks at DOI Secretarial Law Enforcement Memorial
Ceremony.
• May 16: Secretary Zinke will host a conservation roundtable and later a reception at Wolf Trap.
• May 18-30: Secretary Zinke will travel through Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming to
meet with Tribal Nations, National Park Service leadership, and deliver energy speeches:
o Several meetings with Tribal Nations on the opioid crisis and other priorities
o Speech at the Williston Basin Petroleum Council
o National Park Service meetings on overcrowding and infrastructure
SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
• May 19: MONUMENTS: In the Secretary’s report to the President on the National Monuments
review, the Secretary recommended that the President consider the designation of several new
monuments. Two candidates mentioned were Camp Nelson in Kentucky and the Medgar Evers
Home in Mississippi. Interior is developing a set of internal recommendations to release publicly
which will guide monument designation processes. National Park Service staff is visiting Camp
Nelson on May 19 as well as Medgar Evers to start the process.
• TBD: ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT RULEMAKINGS: During the week of April 2, Fish and Wildlife
Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service (collectively, the Services) transmitted two
proposed rules to OMB that pertain to the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Services are
proposing revisions to which implements listing and critical habitat provisions found in section 4 of
ESA. The proposed revisions would add a framework for interpreting foreseeable future; clarify that
the standards for delisting, reclassification, and listing are the same; re-define and expand
considerations determining that designating critical habitat is not prudent; and require that
occupied habitat be evaluated before unoccupied habitat when designating critical habitat. In the
second, the Services are proposing revisions, which implements consultation provisions found in
section 7 of the Act. The proposed revisions would address alternative consultation mechanisms,
clarify the phrase "effects of the action," revise the definition of "destruction or adverse
modification," address certainty of mitigation proposed by action agencies, and otherwise improve
the consultation process. In a third submission to OMB, FWS will transmit a proposed rule to remove
the blanket 4(d) rule, which currently applies the endangered species protections to threatened
species. The proposed regulations would require FWS to determine what, if any, protective
regulations are appropriate for species that the Service in the future determines to be a threatened
species on a case-by-case basis. This action would bring the regulation into the same application as
NMFS currently applies it.
Social Media
• May 7 (tent.): DOI-level blog post: Interior will publish a blog post highlighting some of the jobs at
Interior for Public Service Recognition Week.
• May 10: DOI-level blog post: Interior will publish a blog post about some of the hardworking moms
in the animal kingdom in advance of Mother's Day.
National Park Service
• May 6: Local NPS Release: Yosemite National Park will complete a pilot traffic- management
program aimed at increasing safety and minimizing long lines at the Arch Rock Entrance Station on
California Route 140. The park is working with the California Department of Transportation and the
California Highway Patrol to temporarily stop vehicles on the road leading to the park, allowing
traffic to incrementally enter the park on the popular road. This is one of the pilot programs the park
is implementing to address traffic congestion, ensure visitor access, and address safety concerns for
park visitors.
•

 •

•

•

•

•

•

•

May 7 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Saguaro National Park will initiate a two week public comment
period for an Environmental Assessment (EA) to analyze impacts of the continued traditional
harvesting of Saguaro Fruit and Cholla Buds by the Tohono O'odham Nation (TON) within Park
boundaries. This EA is a requirement of the August 2016 NPS rule, Gathering of Certain Plants by
Federally Recognized Indian Tribes for Traditional Purposes (36 CFR 2.6) to establish a management
framework for tribes to gather certain plant parts within NPS units for traditional purposes. The
harvesting of Saguaro Fruit and Cholla Buds is a longstanding tradition of the TON members.
May 7 (tent.): Local NPS Release: the NPS expects to complete a land exchange between Indiana
Dunes National Lakeshore and Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO). The NPS will
convey an easement valued at $41,000 to NIPSCO, allowing them to install a 24" diameter highpressure natural gas line on Federal land. In exchange, NIPSCO will convey fee title to the United
States for Tract 02-198 valued at $17,000, in addition to a cash payment of $24,000 into the Land
and Water Conservation Fund, resulting in an equal value exchange.
May 7 - 10: A NPS planning team will host several public meetings throughout the State of
Mississippi as part of the civic engagement phase of a special resource study (SRS) looking at
significant civil rights sites in Mississippi, including locations related to the life and murder of
Medgar Evers, the lynching of Emmett Till and the murder of three freedom riders. The team will
visit five different communities across the state containing resources that were identified in the
legislation requiring the SRS. The study will evaluate the potential for inclusion of each site in the
national park system based on whether it meets Congressionally-established criteria for significance,
suitability, feasibility, and need for NPS management. Representatives from Congressman Bennie
Thompson's office and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History are expected to
participate in the public meetings. PEPC site: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/MSCR SRS.
May 7 (tent.): A spending plan will be developed and submitted to the Department for approval for
the new Historic Preservation Fund grant program subgrant program (yet to be named). $5.0 million
in physical preservation funding was passed as part of the FY 2018 budget to grant "block grant"
funding to organizations that will subgrant funding to historic properties of national, State, and local
significance listed in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Development
of a spending plan was mandated in the appropriations language. Preservation partners may have
questions about the stage of development of this program.
May 7 – 10: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staff are participating in a four-day workshop
hosted by BLM to discuss alternatives regarding the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
and Kanab Field Office – Escalante Area Resource Management Plans. On April 10, the park and the
BLM held its first cooperating agency meeting. The NPS agreed to be a cooperating agency during
this planning effort with Glen Canyon National Recreation Area functioning as the NPS point of
contact. Consolidated comments from all involved NPS park units were reviewed by the regional
office and sent to the BLM on April 13.
May 8 – 9: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is hosting two public open house meetings to solicit
public feedback related to visitor use management within the westernmost portion of the lakeshore.
The public will be invited to comment online at the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public
Comment (PEPC) website https://parkplanning.nps.gov/PIRO VUMplan between May 8 and June 6,
2018.
May 9: Local NPS Release: Devils Postpile National Monument will announce the temporary
summer closure to camping at its 20-site campground to accommodate expanded day-use. The
campground area will be open for parking, picnicking, and provide improved river access for fishing.
The monument will be developing a long-term plan for the campground to better meet visitor

 needs. Campers will be encouraged to use the six U.S. Forest Service campground located in the
immediate vicinity of the park.
• May 10: Golden Spike National Historic Site is celebrating its 149th anniversary to mark the
completion of the first transcontinental railroad. As part of that process, the park is working through
concerns raised by the local (Utah) Chinese community regarding whether or not invitations should
go to members of Taiwanese organizations, specifically, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office
(TECO) in San Francisco. The TECO and other Taiwanese groups have been long-time supporters and
regular participants in the ceremony which, in part, honors the 1860s era Chinese railroad workers.
Representatives for the Utah Chinese Civic Center recommended that the NPS extended an
invitation to the Chinese Consulate, which Superintendent Crossland is coordinating with the NPS
Office of International Affairs; however, they implied that participation on behalf of the Chinese
community would be limited based on continuing involvement from the TECO.
• May 10 (tent.): Local NPS Release: Death Valley National Park anticipates releasing the final Bonnie
Clare Road Reconstruction Environmental Assessment and FONSI. Reconstruction work is scheduled
to start in August 2018 and be completed by May 2019. This will allow reopening of the northeast
entrance to the park and restore public access to Scotty's Castle after massive damage from flooding
in October 2015. PEPC link.
• May 10 (tent.) Local NPS Release: Death Valley National Park and the Ridgecrest BLM office
anticipate opening a public comment period on the Keystone Mine Plan of Operations Amendment
and accompanying Environmental Assessment. The mine is on BLM land near the park's western
border, but the mining plan includes the use of water rights within the park.
• May 10 (tent.): Death Valley National Park anticipates releasing the final Scotty's Castle Flood
Rehabilitation Environmental Assessment and FONSI. This document analyzes repair work planned
for historic structures, the cultural landscape, utilities, parking, and walkways to recover from
damage from a flash flood in October 2015. The historic district is scheduled to reopen to the public
in 2020. PEPC link.
• May 10 – 11: NPS will hold public forums and stakeholder sessions to present the Savannah National
Historic Landmark District Integrity & Assessment report. Public comments on the report are also
being accepted through June 30.
• May TBD: NPS plans to release a prospectus for five concession contracts to provide cruise ship
services at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Two of the contracts are set aside for the two
historic operators identified through the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
legislation. Cruise ship services contracts have been awarded since 1980 on a 10 year basis. New
contract terms are similar to previous contracts, shaped in accordance with both Glacier Bay
National Park and Preserve-specific legislation and NPS law and policy. Contracts will be awarded by
late October, 2019. The prospectus is in final Department and Solicitor review.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• May 4 (tent.): Local FWS Release: FWS will make a final determination on the proposal to reclassify
the Tobusch fishhook cactus from endangered to threatened. This plant species has shown
significant recovery due in part to collaborative conservation efforts with partners.
• May 4 (tent.): FWS will begin testing a Monarch Conservation Database. As part of the Species
Status Assessment process for the monarch, FWS is developing the database to record conservation
plans and actions that benefit monarch butterflies. FWS will launch the database in three phases.
The first phase begins between May 4 and May 11 when FWS opens the database to a select group
for user testing; the second phase will begin two to three weeks later when it is made available to all
users to enter data; and the third phase will make the database available to users to access and view
data. The information in the database will help the Service and monarch conservation partners

 continue working strategically to improve conditions for monarchs. The database is also a tool for
conducting the Species Status Assessment and for determining whether listing as an endangered
species is warranted. FWS will notify stakeholders and potential database users of the launch; wider
outreach is not anticipated.
• May 6 (tent.): FWS expects publication in the Federal Register of the Notice of Intent (NOI) to
conduct a 30-day public scoping period and prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for
the Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project Habitat Conservation Plan. The EIS will evaluate the
issuance of an incidental take permit for marbled murrelet, bald eagle and golden eagle at a
proposed wind energy project in Lewis County, Washington. The project is expected to be
controversial with conservation organizations.
• May 7 (tent.): Local FWS Release: FWS will announce the downlisting of the endangered Kuenzler
hedgehog cactus to threatened status. This is based on 5-year reviews, response to a petition to
downlist the plant (and four other southwest species), and discovery of additional populations
greatly expanding the species’ known range.
• May 7 (tent.): FWS will do selected outreach, including selective media coverage, regarding a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FWS and Monsanto. In addition, a field-based
demonstration event is being planned for late summer/early fall. FWS Midwest Region has been
exploring the possibility of a partnership with Monsanto, and its subsidiaries, to use modern
agriculture data tools to help landowners voluntarily manage their land to enhance pollinator
habitat while maximizing production in their fields.
• May 7 (tent.): The final frameworks for the 2018-2019 migratory bird hunting seasons will public in
the federal register. The effect of the rule is to facilitate the States’ selection of hunting seasons and
to further the annual establishment of the migratory bird hunting regulations.
• May 8: FWS Northeast Regional Director Wendi Weber will give a keynote address at the 36th
Annual National Native American Fish and Wildlife Society Conference. This year’s conference is
hosted by the Narragansett Tribe and is being held in Providence, Rhode Island. FWS will provide
presentations on coastal resilience projects in Rhode Island, eagle policy and permitting, white-nose
syndrome in bats, and a possible field trip to the Rhode Island NWR complex.
• May TBD: Local FWS Release: FWS will release less than 14-day-old captive-born Mexican wolf pups
into established wild Mexican wolf dens on federal land in Arizona and New Mexico. Arizona Game
and Fish Department's Mexican wolf field team personnel (part of the Mexican Wolf Interagency
Field Team) lead the cross-fostering efforts in Arizona. New Mexico does not play a role except for
providing permits to release cross-fostered pups into New Mexico. The window of opportunity is
very narrow to identify pups born in captivity with a den of pups in the wild that are very close in
age (under a week old). The Mexican wolf recovery team will only have a very short time (72 - 48
hours) to get a cross-foster mission lined up for execution. Because of that, in the draft news release
to announce a successful cross-foster event, the dates in draft will be open. Select reporters will be
invited to attend.
• May TBD: National FWS Release: FWS plans to send to the Federal Register a proposed rule and
open a 30-day public comment period on the 2018-19 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing
Regulations. The proposed rule would open up to 28 various national wildlife refuges to hunting
and/or sport fishing for the first time and expand hunting and fishing opportunities at others.
Outreach is planned to include a national news release when the Federal Register notice is
published and notifications to members of Congress in affected districts, with some stakeholder
outreach.
Bureau of Land Management

 Week of April 29 – May 5: Casey Hammond is representing ASLM at the Institute of the North’s
Week of the Arctic Economic Development Summit on Responsible Mineral Development in the
Arctic in Anchorage, Alaska.
May 1-7: Local BLM Release: BLM will announce that the Department of Energy, Office of Legacy
Management, has applied to BLM for withdrawal of approximately 361 acres of public land
surrounding part of its Central Nevada Test Area. The CNTA consists of three parcels of withdrawn
public lands in Hot Creek Valley, approximately 70 miles northeast of Tonopah. One 640-acre parcel
was the site of an underground nuclear test in 1968, which resulted in a determination that the
CNTA was unsuitable for further nuclear testing. These lands are currently withdrawn from all forms
of appropriation under the public land laws, including the mining laws, and the mineral leasing laws.
The DOE, which monitors the CNTA, has determined that an additional 361 acres needs to be
withdrawn to prevent disturbance to residual subsurface contamination.
• May 2-7 (tent.): Local BLM Release: BLM Wyoming will announce publication of the Notice of
Availability for the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Normally Pressured Lance (NPL)
Project. The proposed project includes drilling up to 3,500 directional natural gas wells over a 10year period on approximately 140,000 acres.
• May 4: Local BLM Release: BLM Nevada will announce it is seeking public comments on an
environmental assessment associated with the proposed withdrawal of 769,724 acres of federal
land in Churchill, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, and Pershing Counties, NV, for the possible expansion of the
Department of the Navy’s Fallon Range Training Complex. FRTC is the premier range for naval
aviation strike warfare training.
• May 4: Local BLM Release: BLM Eastern States will submit a Federal Register Notice to conduct a
competitive coal lease sale re-offering 160 acres of federal mineral estate in Jefferson County,
Alabama.
• May 4: Congressman Amodei (R-NV) will meet with BLM Acting NV Sate Director Mike Courtney and
NV Associate State Director Marci Todd to discuss PWR 107 water issues. The meeting will take
place at the Nevada state office.
• May 4: Local BLM Release: The BLM Idaho, Owyhee Field Office, will announce it is finalizing its
assessment of Idaho’s Standards of Rangeland Health and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing
Management for the Rockville Allotment, and plans to initiate public scoping.
• May 2-7 (tent.): Local BLM Release: BLM Utah will announce the Final Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS) for the Alton Coal Tract Coal Lease by Application near Alton, Utah. The Lease by
Application covers a total of 3,581 acres of federal mineral estate, of which 2,305 acres of the
surface are administered by the BLM, and 1,276 acres are in private surface ownership. The area
contains 44.9 million tons of recoverable coal. Based on extensive environmental analysis, the
preferred alternative would provide approximately 30 million tons for lease. The Final EIS, based on
two million tons of production annually, shows leasing the coal could directly create 130 jobs and
indirectly affect employment of 240 to 480 jobs, assuming a range of economic multipliers.
• May TBD: National BLM Release - Announcing Wild Horse and Burro 2018 Adoption Schedule –
Communications materials under development.
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
• May 7-8: The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will be
holding public information meetings on Long Island prior to the NY Bight Task Force.
• May 8: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a public meeting focused on
collecting information regarding fisheries usage of the NY Bight. The meeting will be held in West
Long Branch, NJ.
•

 May 9: The Office of Renewable Energy Programs will be hosting a New York Bight Renewable
Energy Intergovernmental Task Force meeting in NJ. Deputy ASLM Kate MacGregor and BOEM
Acting Director Cruickshank expected to attend.
• May 10: Michelle Morin from the Office of Renewable Energy Programs will participate on the panel
Is Change in the Wind? during the Infrastructure Review and Permitting Conference.
• May 7-11: Marine Geological and Biological Habitat Mapping (GeoHab) 2018 Conference in Santa
Barbara, CA. BOEM and USGS will sponsor and co-chair the annual conference and lead the
International Scientific Committee. Session themes of interest include (1) Mapping, planning and
impact assessment for ocean energy, (2) Marine Minerals: A new GeoHab frontier, (3) Seeps and
hydrates, and (4) Deep water coral habitats. BOEM participation will include chairing select sessions,
presentations and posters, and staffing an exhibit. Pacific OPA will support.
• May TBD: BOEM Note to Stakeholders: BOEM will announce that the Marine Minerals Program is
developing a Draft Environmental Assessment for sand management activities in the Atlantic and
Gulf of Mexico, including geotechnical and geophysical surveys for resource identification, research
studies, and monitoring borrow areas. In addition to the NTS, MMP staff will post the draft EA to the
BOEM website by the end of May, and share with a targeted list of stakeholders for comment.
Bureau of Reclamation
• May 7: Reclamation will host a media tour at the Teton Dam site to discuss public safety and
unauthorized access issues. Teton Dam catastrophically failed on June 5, 1976, as it was filling for
the first time. Trespass and vandalism incidents have been increasing, and hazardous conditions are
present throughout the site.
• Between May 7 and 9: Reclamation Deputy Commissioner Alan Mikkelsen will be in the Klamath
Basin meeting with stakeholders. His focus will be rolling out draft principles for a comprehensive
basin-wide water and resource management plan. Media interest is expected.
• May 7-8: Commissioner Brenda Burman and her senior leadership will be participating in varying
degrees in a COOP exercise and will be offsite of the Interior building.
• May 9: The Yakima Basin Integrated Plan (Integrated Plan) Implementation Committee will provide
an Integrated Plan update briefing for the Integrated Plan DC Leadership Group. Meeting / briefing
will be chaired by Assistant Secretary for Water and Science (ASWS) Tim Petty; with presentations
and updates being given by Implementation Committee members (in person) and Reclamation
Regional staff (via phone). Since 2013, the ASWS has facilitated bi-annual meetings of the
Implementation Committee and DC Leadership Group, helping to advance Integrated Plan projects
using State, federal, and private funding and collaboration.
• May 8-11: The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) will hold its spring conference,
“2018: CA Water: Building for the Future,” in Sacramento. Deputy Secretary David Bernhardt,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science Austin Ewell and regional directors are scheduled
to speak. ACWA is the nation’s largest statewide coalition of public water agencies with 430 public
agency members responsible for 90 percent of the water delivered to California cities, farms and
businesses. Media interest is expected.
Office of Wildland Fire
• May TBD: A Joint Direction letter will go to Wildland Fire Leadership to provide guidance on the
upcoming fire season. Letter is currently under review and will be coordinated with USDA.
U.S. Geological Survey
• May TBD: National USGS Release: USGS scientists are publishing a paper examining the practical
limits of an earthquake early warning system, but studying warning arrival times of a hypothetical
quake in northern California. Will be published in Science Advances.
•

 May TBD: New USGS Publication: North American Net Import Reliance of Mineral Materials for
Advanced Technologies: The U.S. Geological Survey and Natural Resources Canada conducted a
study on the net import reliance of the United States, Canada, and Mexico as individual countries
and as a single trading bloc for twelve nonfuel mineral commodities that are associated with
advanced technology products. The minerals are cadmium, cobalt, gallium, germanium, graphite,
indium, lithium, nickel, rare earths, selenium, silver, and tellurium.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
• Bureau of Indian Affairs Director Tony Dearman will speak at a meeting with Congressman Schaefer,
congressional staffers regarding a letter sent to DOI from the Oregon Congressional Delegation.
•

CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE (updated 5/1)
2017 COMPREHENSIVE INVENTORY OF OCS OIL & GAS RESOURCES REPORT TO CONGRESS: This report
is required by Section 357 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to
provide a report to Congress within 6 months of the date of enactment (i.e., Aug. 8, 2005), with updates
at least every 5 years.
Timing: April 2018
Contact: Joe Balash, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management
UPCOMING SENR OVERSIGHT HEARING: The Senate on Energy and Natural Resources’ Subcommittee
on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining is holding an oversight hearing to examine the law enforcement
programs at the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service, coordination with other federal,
state and local law enforcement, and the effects on rural communities.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster and Blake Deeley, Advisors, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING SCIA CONFIRMATION HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will hold a
confirmation hearing for Tara Sweeney, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.
Timing: May 9, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING FY19 BUDGET HEARING: The Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee will be holding a
hearing on the FY19 budget. The Secretary will be the witness.
Timing: May 10, 2018
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
UPCOMING SCIA OVERSIGHT HEARING: The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will hold an oversight
hearing on Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) school safety and efforts to implement Office of Inspector
General and Government Accountability Office recommendations that pertain to student safety.
Timing: May 16, 2018
Contact: Amanda Kaster, Advisor, Congressional Affairs
DOI NOMINEES IN PROGRESS: Susan Combs (A/S PMB) and Ryan Nelson (Solicitor) were reported out of
the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources by voice vote on January 30. They were both
placed on the Senate calendar and were hot lined on February 7. There were objections by Democrats.
We are encouraging Senate leadership to file cloture and hold a floor vote on these nominees.
• Steve Gardner (OSM) was renominated in January after being sent back to the WH at the end of
December. We are still working with Mr. Gardner on some questions with the Office of Government
Ethics.

 •

Tara Sweeney (A/S Indian Affairs) is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs for her confirmation hearing on May 9.

Timing: Ongoing
Contact: John Tanner, Director, Congressional Affairs
PUBLIC LANDS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND/NATIONAL PARK RESTORATION ACT: DOI continues the
ongoing process of supporting the Public Lands Infrastructure Fund, which was included in both the
President’s FY19 Budget and the Infrastructure proposals. On March 6, 2018, DOI testified at a House
Natural Resources oversight hearing on the maintenance issue, highlighting the need for maintenance
updates on public lands. On March 7, the Secretary joined Senators Alexander, Daines, Capito, Gardner
and Tillis to introduce language that was built off of the FY19 Budget proposal, the National Parks
Restoration Act. The bill has bipartisan, bicameral support. On March 20, 2018, the NPS Deputy Director,
Daniel Smith testified before the House Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on the bill. On
April 17, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing to Examine Deferred
Maintenance and Operational Needs of the National Park Service. A legislative hearing on the bill text is
expected soon, but nothing has been scheduled.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Micah Chambers, Deputy Director, Congressional Affairs
REORGANIZATION AND UNIFIED REGIONAL BOUNDARIES: Secretary Zinke has informally notified the
House and Senate Appropriations Committees regarding FY18 implementation of new shared regional
boundaries across Interior’s bureaus. Formal notification is planned for mid May following the FY19
appropriations committee hearings, which would trigger a 30 day clock, at the end of which DOI believes
it can move ahead, absent express Congressional opposition. Presently, each of the 10 bureaus have
different geographic boundaries for regional offices. The new approach has bureaus share unified
boundaries based on watersheds, often adjusted to the nearest state line boundaries. Implementing
unified regions will improve the timeliness and appropriateness of decision making in the field, by
allowing senior managers to focus on the same geography. Interior is implementing a comprehensive
Congressional, gubernatorial, employee, and stakeholder communications strategy to demonstrate the
advantages of this approach. The FY19 budget also speaks to moving parts of the headquarters of BLM,
FWS, and Reclamation westward. Interior successfully worked with the appropriations committee
majority staff to avoid an effort by the minority to put unnecessarily restrictive limitations on the
reorganization in the FY 2018 omnibus appropriations act.
Timing: Ongoing
Contact: Susan Combs, Senior Advisor to the Secretary Exercising the Authority of the Assistant
Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
SECRETARY SPEAKING INVITATIONS (updates in bold)
Accepted:
5/10 – SEAL Family Foundation “Families First” Philadelphia Gala (Philadelphia, PA)
5/11 - National Marine Manufactures Association’s American Boating Congress Annual FlyIn (DC)
5/13 – National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil (DC)
5/14 DOI Law Enforcement Ceremony (DC)
5/16 – Wolf Trap Foundation Congressional Reception (DC)
5/23 - Remarks at Williston Basin Petroleum 26th Annual Conference (Bismarck, ND)
6/1 - Ducks Unlimited Annual Convention (Indianapolis, IN)
6/12 - USMC Sunset Parade Guest of Honor (DC)

 6/12 - National Park Foundation's 50th Anniversary Event (DC)
6/25-27 - Western Governors Associaiton Annual Meeting (Rapid City, SD)
7/3 - Grand Opening of the Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)
7/4 - DOI's Independence Day Reception (DC)
8/10-11 Steamboat Institute Annual Freedom Conference & Festival (Steamboat, CO)
Open (date TBC)- Americans for Tax Reform (DC)
Open (date TBC)- Detroit Economic Club
Outstanding Invitations in Process:
5/18 Remarks at Laffer Associates 58th Annual Washington Conference (DC)
5/30-31Montana Energy Summit (Billings, MT)
5/31-6/2 – Civil War Trust 2018 Annual Conference (Newport News, VA)
6/3-5 Annual Coal and Investment Leadership Forum (Bristow, VA)
6/3-6 National Congress of American Indians Midyear Conference (Kansas City, MO)
6/4 Close up Foundation (DC)
6/8 Annual Victims of Communism Wreath Laying Ceremony (DC)
6/14 Yosmite National Park Mariposa Grove Dedication Ceremony (CA)
6/5 South Central Industrial Association Annual Banquet (Houma, LA)
6/15 Corps Network Annual Great Outdoors Day of Service event (DC)
6/15 Klamath Community College Commencement (Klamath Falls, OR)
6/15 Latino Coalition Small Business Rising Summit (Irvine, CA)
6/16 Montana Youth Challenge Graduation
6/16 Arlington/Fairfax Izaak Walton League of America and Club Run Archers Annual Charity
Fundraiser (Centerville, VA)
6/19 Farm Bureau Wester Region Conference (Kalispell, MT)
6/20-22 US Department of Commerce Investment Conference (National Harbor, MD)
6/22 Music at the Monument (DC)
6/25-29 World Gas Conference (DC)
7/9 Yellow Ribbon Fund Annual Golf Tournament (Arlington, VA)
7/11 North American Outfitter Association (Bozeman, MT)
7/14 Wildlife 2018 (San Antonio, TX)
7/17-18 Domestic Energy Producers Alliance Meeting (DC)
7/23-24 Conference of Western Attorney General Annual Meeting (Bernalillo, NM)
8/21-22 Remarks at Colordo Oil and Gas Association Annual Energy Summit (Denver, CO)
Declining:
5/3 – NRA Annual Meeting (Dallas, TX)
5/3 – RV Industry Power Breakfast (Elkhart, IN)
5/9 – Association of California Water Agencies (Sacramento, CA)
5/9-11 Colorado Forum (DC)
5/9-11 Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association Conference (Salt Lake City, UT)
5/15 Honor our Heroes Day (Montana)
5/16-19 Mansfield Water Summit (Whitefish, Montana)
5/18 National Capital Friends of NRA Banquet (Arlington, VA)
5/19 Crystal Gala in the Park (Glen Echo, MD)
5/21-24 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Meeting (Toppenish, WA)
5/22 Easter Seals Advocacy Awards (DC)

 5/24 – Surety & Fidelity Association of America’s Annual Meeting (DC)
5/27 Rolling Thunder Demonstration Run (DC)
5/30 Arizona Mining Annual Meeting & Golf Tournament (Tucson, AZ)
6/2 Battle of Midway 76th Commemoration Ceremony (HI)
6/3-8 Montana American Legion Boys State for the 2018 session (Helena, MT)
6/4-6 Investment Migration Forum (Kempinski, MT)
6/12 Southeastern Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (Charleston, SC)
6/14 Montana Stock growers Association Midyear Meeting (Dillion, MT)
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Kilauea Volcano - Hawaii
USGS reports that lava spattering and gas bursts erupted from the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea
Volcano for approximately two hours overnight, resulting in lava spreading a short distance from the
fissure, approximately 33 feet. USGS personnel are working near the fissure to track additional activity
and note that at this time, the fissure is no longer erupting and no other fissures have erupted. A string
of recent activity at Kilauea included a magnitude 5.0 earthquake and several smaller aftershocks that
occurred yesterday. These caused a short-lived plume of ash that dissipated as it drifted southwest from
Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō. The Governor of Hawaii has declared a state of emergency and the National Guard has been
activated to assist with evacuating approximately 1,700 residents and to provide security at the over 750
structures left empty due to evacuations. According to the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency, the local
fire department has detected extremely high levels of dangerous sulfur dioxide gas in the evacuation
area. USGS reports that this is typical for active and recently active fissures. At this time, there have
been no reported impacts to DOI personnel, lands, or facilities.
Flooding - Maine
Although statewide water levels have receded, USGS continues to assist the National Weather Service
and emergency management agencies with flood support around Fort Kent, Maine. The Fish River in
northern Maine remains at a 100-year flood and USGS personnel have installed a Rapid Deployment
Gage on the Fish River at Soldier Pond. The data from this site, which is in a remote area of Maine, will
provide necessary information to the National Weather Service and local emergency management
agencies.
OUTSIDE MEDIA OF INTEREST (new)
A Pruitt Aide’s Attack On Zinke Angers The White House.
The Atlantic (5/3, Plott) reports that “as Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt
faces a seemingly endless stream of scandal, his team is scrambling to divert the spotlight to Interior
Secretary Ryan Zinke.” In the last week, the article says, “a member of Pruitt’s press team, Michael
Abboud, has been shopping negative stories about Zinke to multiple outlets, according to two sources
with direct knowledge of the efforts, as well as correspondence reviewed by The Atlantic.”
Business Insider (5/3, Relman) reports that “several reporters rejected the stories that Abboud
shopped, citing a lack of evidence, even as it was published by Patrick Howley of Big League Politics, a
right-wing website founded by former Breitbart News employees.” The Interior Department’s White
House liaison “reportedly complained about Abboud’s behavior to the White House Presidential
Personnel Office, where officials were ‘enraged.’”
Also reporting are the New York Daily News (5/3, Sommerfeldt), the Daily Beast (5/3), Government
Executive (5/3, Plott), The Week (5/3, Alters), and Vox (5/3, Golshan).

 Lawmakers, Industry Leaders Attend RV Industry Power Breakfast.
WBND-TV South Bend, IN (5/3, Fixler) reports that “the 6th Annual RV Industry Power Breakfast was
held Thursday morning at the Northern Indiana Event Center.” According to the article, “more than 900
people attended the breakfast to show their support and the new success of the business.” The Goshen
(IN) News (5/3, Selman) reports that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke was “scheduled to speak but had to
stay in Washington.” Zinke sent Rick May, his senior national adviser, in his stead.
Additional coverage was provided by WBND-TV South Bend, IN (5/3, Corak).
Environmental-Review Policy Draws Fire   Western Colorado   Gjsentinel.com.
The Grand Junction (CO) Daily Sentinel (5/4, Harmon) reports that “an Interior Department official
said Wednesday in Grand Junction that the Trump administration was moving to speed up the time
agencies have to deal with environmental studies, specifically through the National Environmental Policy
Act.” But “the move to require federal agencies to conduct environmental analyses within a year and
cap reports to 100 pages ‘flies in the face of common sense and only further promotes conflicts between
public lands stakeholders,’ said Jace Woodrum, communications director for Conservation Colorado.”
Woodrum said, “This administration has adopted the point of view that public involvement and public
comments on federal actions is a burden to their short-sighted agenda of ‘Energy Dominance.’”
Continued Friction Over Indian Education Funding?
Politico (5/3, Hefling) reports that “Interior Department officials based in Washington, including Bureau
of Indian Education Director Tony Dearman, opted to skip a tribal consultation organized April 22 in
Albuquerque by the Education Department to discuss federal education issues.” Faith C. Vander Voort, a
spokeswoman for the Interior Department, “noted in an email that the consultation was organized by
the Education Department. She said Dearman and John Tahsuda III, the department’s principal deputy
assistant secretary, weren’t able to adjust their schedules to attend because of the ‘short lead time.’”
However, “she said some local BIE school personnel attended ‘at least part of the session.’”
Tribal Pastor Fights US On Eagle Feather Restrictions.
Courthouse News (5/3, Ryan) reports that “a Native American feather dancer asked the U.S.
government Thursday to end its restrictions on tribes using eagle feathers in religious ceremonies.” The
article notes that “the petition by Robert Soto, vice-chairman of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, comes
more than a decade after an undercover federal agent raided his powwow and confiscated roughly 50
eagle feathers.” Soto, who serves as pastor of the McAllen Grace Brethren Church, “says the current
arrangement ‘leaves millions of religious believers in legal jeopardy’ and violates the Fifth Amendment,
as well as the free exercise and establishment clauses of the First Amendment.”
Additional coverage was provided by Law360 (5/3, Westney).
Interior Agency Blocks Group Of Archaeologists From Attending Scientific Conference.
The Washington Post (5/3, Grandoni) reports that the Bureau of Land Management “blocked at least 14
of its staff archaeologists and other specialists from attending a major scientific conference this year, at
a time when archeological sites have become a flashpoint in the debate over public lands protection.”
According to the article, “the archeologists and other BLM employees, many working and living in
Western states, were originally scheduled to attend the annual meeting of the Society for American
Archaeology, the largest organization of professional archaeologists in the Western Hemisphere.”
However, “officials at BLM’s headquarters in Washington only authorized the attendance of three
archaeologists, citing ‘the potential travel and other costs’ of the trips.” BLM spokeswoman Amber
Cargile said, “The decision was made after reviewing the conference topics and agenda, and we sent the

 people who could best represent the BLM. We value our professional relationship with SAA and the
important role our archaeologists play in the Bureau’s multiple use mission.”
Also reporting is KBSC-FM Boise, ID (5/3, Peacher).
Hawaii Volcano Erupts; County Issues Evacuation Orders.
The AP (5/3, Jones) reports that “Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano erupted Thursday, releasing lava into a
residential neighborhood and prompting mandatory evacuation orders for nearby homes.” CNN(5/4,
Park, Sutton) reports that “the eruption affected Leilani Estates, a subdivision in the lower East Rift Zone
of Kilauea volcano, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.”
Also reporting is the Big Island (HI) Video News (5/3).
5.0 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Hawaii As Residents Ready For Possible Lava
Eruption. NPR(5/3, Romo) reports that “a 5.0 magnitude earthquake on Thursday rocked several
communities on the Big Island that are already bracing for a possible volcanic eruption after hundreds of
small earthquakes jolted the region.” The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory “said the quake, which struck
at 10:30 a.m. local time, ‘caused rockfalls and possibly an additional collapse’ into the Pu’u O’o, a crater
on the Kilauea volcano that has been slowly crumbling.” According to geologists, “the ongoing temblors
– more than 600 in the past three days – are an indication that lava could break through the surface at
any time.”
Also reporting is the AP (5/3, Jones).
BOEM’s Director Says Agency Continues To Carry Out Trump’s Offshore Agenda.
World Oil (5/3, Abraham) reports that during a luncheon speech this week at the 2018 Offshore
Technology Conference, acting Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Director Dr. Walter Cruickshank
“delivered an update on the state of offshore activity and regulation.” Referring to the American First
Offshore Energy Executive Order issued last April, he said, “We are making progress in implementing the
components” of it. He also touted current OCS activity, and “said that offshore projects continue to add
considerable value to U.S. energy assets.” He stated, “The OCS supports $55 billion in spending and
350,000 jobs,” and that “we estimate that undiscovered resources total 90 Bbbl of oil and 327 Tcf of
natural gas.”
Service Seeks Public Comment On Proposed Wind Facility.
The Nisqually Valley (WA) News (5/3) reports that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public
input “as part of the development of an Environmental Impact Statement for a proposed wind energy
project in Lewis and Thurston counties.” The proposed Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project “would
consist of up to 38 commercial wind turbines and associated infrastructure.” Comments may be
submitted through June 4.
FEDERAL REGISTER LISTINGS:
REG0007965 BLM Notice of Availability of the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Enefit
American Oil Utility Corridor Project, Uintah County, Utah -- The Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
announces the availability of a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Enefit
American Oil (Enefit) Utility Corridor Project in Uintah County, Utah. The BLM also announces a 45-day
waiting period before it will make any final decisions on the Project. Notice 05/03/2018
REG0008003 BLM Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement and Notice of
Segregation for the Proposed Yellow Pine Solar Project, Clark County, Nevada -- The Bureau of Land

 Management (BLM) announces its intent to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the
proposed Yellow Pine Solar Project in Clark County, Nevada. The BLM also temporarily segregates
certain public lands from appropriation under the public land laws, including the Mining Law, subject to
valid existing rights. This Notice initiates a 90-day public scoping period and the temporary segregation.
Notice 05/03/2018
REG0008134 BLM Notice of Availability of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed
Blue Valley Land Exchange, Grand and Summit Counties, Colorado -- The Bureau of Land Management
(BLM) announces the availability of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed
Blue Valley Land Exchange in Colorado. The BLM requests public comments over 45 days. Notice
05/03/2018
REG0008118 FWS Habitat Conservation Plan for South Sacramento County, California; Final Joint
Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report -- The final EIS/EIR and the final HCP
documents will be available for a 30-day public review, as required by NEPA regulations and ESA
policies. The HCP addresses 28 covered species, including 7 federally listed species. Notice 05/03/2018