Cook Inlet seismic data from SAExploration set for public release August 1

Cook Inlet seismic data collected by SAExploration could become publicly available beginning August 1, under an official notice the Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Oil and Gas posted July 1. The notice announces the coming release of previously confidential exploration data, moving proprietary records into the public domain under the state's standard statutory notice process. The release is not guaranteed on that date: the division has said preparation of large and complex datasets "can take upwards of one year to complete" after the statutory notice period ends.

The notice covers the Shadura 2D/3D seismic project, permit MLUP/CI 15-009, spanning Seward Meridian Township 9N, Range 8-9W and Township 8N, Range 9-10W in Cook Inlet. The release is authorized under Alaska Statute 43.55.025(f)(2)(C), which governs when formerly confidential oil and gas exploration data can move into the public record. The notice does not alter leasing terms, royalty rates, or exploration authorizations.

The release fits within DNR's ongoing geologic and geophysical data program, through which the state periodically makes formerly confidential exploration data available once the statutory notice period has run. The data will be released no less than 30 days after the July 1 notice date.

Publicly distributable datasets from the program are obtained through the Geologic Materials Center. Requests can be directed to the division at (907) 269-8800 or [email protected].