April 2, 2026

DENVER – Western Energy Alliance today praised the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for strong first-quarter oil and natural gas lease sale results in Colorado and Utah. The results mark the highest total in Colorado since 2020 and the second-highest in Utah, underscoring the continued demand for reliable, affordable domestic energy at a time of global uncertainty and conflict in the Middle East.

According to BLM figures, Colorado’s lease sale generated $8.1 million across 68 parcels covering 42,532 acres, while Utah’s sale brought in $56.4 million for 57 parcels over 68,632 acres. Together, the recent sales generated significant economic returns for taxpayers and meaningful investment in local communities.

“The federal onshore oil and natural gas program continues to be a cornerstone of American energy,” said Melissa Simpson, president of the Alliance. “Federal lands account for roughly 10 percent of total U.S. oil and natural gas production each year, providing the affordable, dependable energy that keeps our economy and national security strong. These sales reaffirm the value of public land development to America’s energy future at a time when the world is grappling with instability and energy volatility. We have the energy we need to sustain our nation under our feet.”

“Leasing on federal lands benefits consumers far more than just at the pump. The revenues paid by companies from these lease sales are shared between the federal government and the states. In turn, they help financially support local schools, first responders, and vital infrastructure. These investments flow directly back to communities across Colorado and Utah, strengthening both state economies and American energy independence,” Simpson added.

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