Bureau of Land Management's Geothermal Resources Management

We found two issues that hinder a more effective geothermal energy program at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). First, Geothermal Resources Operational Orders (orders) are outdated. BLM no longer uses several of the orders, some orders reference organizations and regulations incorrectly, one order has been in draft status since 1980, and none of the orders address inspection and enforcement adequately. Second, BLM does not have a standardized geothermal inspection and enforcement program. We found variations in types of inspections conducted, forms and formats used for conducting inspections, and frequency of inspections. We also found issues concerning who is conducting inspections and the training requirements for inspectors. Finally, we found inconsistencies in data collection for inspections because there is no guidance on data collection.