Tribal Orphaned Wells Program

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $150 million for Tribal well plugging, remediation and restoration. Tribes may seek grant funding to undertake the well plugging or may request that the Secretary administer the well plugging on behalf of the Tribe, known as “In Lieu of Grant” assistance. The Department awarded over $40 million in grants and In Lieu of Grant assistance during the first phase of funding in 2023 and will distribute the remaining funding over the coming years.

Open Application Period  

The Department invites Federally Recognized Tribes to submit requests for Phase 2 In Lieu of Grant (ILOG)assistance according to published guidance (see Resources). Up to $5 million is available for Phase 2 ILOG assistance. The Department will accept and review requests for Phase 2 In Lieu of Grant assistance on a rolling basis through September 30, 2024.  Tribes may request that the Secretary administer and carry out plugging, remediation, and reclamation activities related to eligible orphaned wells on their behalf by submitting their letter of request, according to the published guidance, to the Indian Energy Service Center - Bureau of Indian Affairs (IndianEnergyServiceCenter@bia.gov). The application period for Phase 2 Program Development Grants and Implementation Grants is now closed. The Department is currently reviewing submitted applications.

Technical Assistance Opportunities  

For technical assistance, including questions concerning grant application workplans and technical requirements, In Lieu of Grant requests, and for all activities associated with plugging, remediation, and reclamation of orphaned wells and well sites, contact the Orphaned Wells Program Office’s Tribal Program Division at DOI_OrphanedWells_Tribal@ios.doi.gov or (202) 219-3283.

For grants administration (financial) assistance, including downloading application materials, questions about grant requirements, and requests for approval of pre-award costs, contact the Interior Business Center at aqd-fa.tribes@ibc.doi.gov.

Training Webinars and Open Office Hours

The Department will offer regular “office hours” hosted by the Indian Energy Service Center - Bureau of Indian Affairs (IESC), for all interested and prospective applicants for In Lieu of Grant assistance beginning in June and will post a link to the scheduled sessions as soon as they are available. Please contact IESC (IndianEnergyServiceCenter@bia.gov) for additional information.

Resources

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