The Bureau of Land Management is accepting public comments on a proposed oil and gas lease sale covering 52 parcels in Montana and the Dakotas.

The parcels encompass 18,345 acres and could be offered in a January 2027 lease sale. Comments are due by Nov. 27, under a 30-day public comment period.

Leasing Process

Federal oil and gas leasing is the first step toward possible development. Companies would still need additional permits and must complete environmental review before drilling.

The BLM said the proposed parcels include stipulations intended to protect natural resources. Maps, parcel information and instructions for submitting comments are available online.