(Office of the Governor) – Governor David M. Apatang announces that the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), under the U.S. Department of the Interior, has published, in the Federal Register, a Request for Information and Interest (RFI) as the first step in a process that could potentially lead to a lease sale for minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) offshore the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).
The Governor emphasizes the importance of public participation in this process, noting that community engagement will ensure that the voices and interests of the people of the CNMI are heard and considered in any future federal actions regarding seabed mineral exploration or development.
“This is a matter of great significance to the Commonwealth,” said Governor Apatang. “We encourage everyone—citizens, community organizations, traditional leaders, and government agencies—to review the information carefully and provide thoughtful comments. Our collective input will help guide how these discussions move forward and ensure that the interests of the CNMI are protected.”
BOEM must receive all comments, information, and indications of interest in response to this RFI no later than December 12, 2025.
Members of the public may submit their comments through the following methods:
- Federal eRulemaking Portal:
Visit www.regulations.gov.
In the search box at the top of the webpage, enter BOEM-2025-0351, then click “Search.” Follow the online instructions to submit public comments and view supporting and related materials. - By Mail:
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Pacific Region, Office of Strategic Resources
760 Paseo Camarillo (CM 102)
Camarillo, California 93010
Governor Apatang reiterated that the CNMI welcomes dialogue that promotes sustainable development and environmental stewardship. “Our Administration remains committed to transparency, scientific understanding, and community involvement in all discussions related to our ocean resources,” the Governor said.
