DOI allows Shell to start off-shore drilling work in Arctic Ocean

Friday, August 31, 2012  

The Interior Department is allowing Shell Oil to start off-shore drilling work in Alaska.

But Shell won't be allowed to actually drill for oil until a barge containing oil spill equipment arrives. The barge is currently in Washington state, awaiting certification from DOI.

Alaska Native organizations have opposed Shell's work in the Arctic Ocean, claiming it will harm subsistence foods.

Get the Story:
Shell gets OK to start Chukchi Sea drilling before barge arrives (The Anchorage Daily News 8/30)
Shell gets partial go-ahead off Alaska coast (The Washington Post 8/31)
U.S. Approves an Initial Step in Oil Drilling Near Alaska (The New York Times 8/31)
Shell approved for preparation work before exploratory drilling in Alaska’s Chukchi Sea (AP 8/30)