Endangered Species Act Section 7 Biological Opinion: Oil and Gas Leasing and Exploration Activities in the U.S. Beaufort and Chukchi Seas, Alaska

This opinion considers the effects of the authorization of oil and gas leasing and exploration activities by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), within the U.S. Beaufort and Chukchi Seas over a 14-year period beginning March 2013 and ending in March 2027 on the endangered bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), endangered fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus), endangered humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), endangered right whale (Eubalaena japonica), endangered western Steller sea lion (Eumatopias jubatus) distinct population segment (DPS), threatened Arctic subspecies of ringed seal (Phoca hispida hispida), and threatened Beringia DPS of bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus barbatus), as well as the designated critical habitats for North Pacific Right whale and Steller sea lion. BOEM and BSEE are the federal action agencies that issue oil and gas leases and authorize exploration activities, and BSEE is responsible for ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of the lease and exploration activities.