(a) The exploration operations regulations contained in this subpart and subparts 3251 through 3256 apply to geothermal exploration operations:

(1) On BLM-administered public lands, whether or not they are leased for geothermal resources; and

(2) On lands whose surface is managed by another Federal agency, where BLM has leased the subsurface geothermal resources and the lease operator wishes to conduct exploration. In this case, we will consult with the surface managing agency regarding surface use and reclamation requirements before we approve the exploration operations.

(b) These regulations do not apply to:

(1) Unleased land administered by another Federal agency;

(2) Unleased geothermal resources whose surface land is managed by another Federal agency;

(3) Privately owned land; or

(4) Casual use activities.

(a) You may request BLM approval to explore any BLM-managed public lands open to geothermal leasing, even if the lands are leased to another person. A BLM-approved exploration permit does not give you exclusive rights.

(b) If you wish to conduct operations on your lease, you may do so after we have approved your Notice of Intent to Conduct Geothermal Resource Exploration Operations. If the lands are already leased, your operations may not unreasonably interfere with or endanger those other operations or other authorized uses, or cause unnecessary or undue degradation of the lands.

BLM-approved exploration operations must:

(a) Meet all operational and environmental standards;

(b) Protect public health, safety, and property;

(c) Prevent unnecessary impacts on surface and subsurface resources;

(d) Be conducted in a manner consistent with the principles of multiple use; and

(e) Comply with the requirements of § 3200.4.

BLM may issue the following types of orders or instructions:

(a) Geothermal resource operational orders that contain detailed requirements of nationwide applicability;

(b) Notices to lessees that contain detailed requirements on a statewide or regional basis;

(c) Other orders and instructions specific to a field or area;

(d) Conditions of approval contained in an approved Notice of Intent; and

(e) Verbal orders that BLM will confirm in writing.

(a) You may propose any activity fitting the definition of “exploration operations” in § 3200.1. Submit Form 3200-9, Notice of Intent to Conduct Geothermal Resource Exploration Operations, together with the information required under § 3251.11, and BLM will review your proposal.

(b) The exploration operations regulations do not address drilling wells intended for production or injection, which is covered in subpart 3260, or geothermal resources utilization, which is covered in subpart 3270.