HEX Operating, LLC Incidental Harassment Authorization Renewal Effective

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued a one-year renewal of an incidental harassment authorization (IHA) to HEX Operating, LLC (formerly Furie Operating Alaska, LLC) for natural gas activities in Cook Inlet, Alaska. The authorization covers the period from September 13, 2026, through September 12, 2027, and permits the incidental take of marine mammals by Level B harassment during rig towing and positioning activities. This renewal is a subset of activities previously authorized in the initial Year 2 IHA. Notably, the renewal does not include pile driving activities, and therefore, no Level A harassment is authorized. NMFS determined that the activities will have a negligible impact on marine mammal species and will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on subsistence uses. The decision follows a 15-day public comment period on the proposed renewal, during which NMFS received input from Friends of Animals and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Mitigation measures remain consistent with previous authorizations, including the use of protected species observers (PSOs), establishment of clearance zones, and requirements to conduct towing operations during favorable tides. HEX is also required to maintain specific distances from the Susitna River Delta and adhere to flight altitude restrictions for helicopters. NMFS confirmed that this action complies with the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, supported by a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) signed on June 16, 2026.