"The rules help ensure that any exploratory drilling operations in this highly challenging environment will be conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, while protecting the marine, coastal, and human environments, and Alaska Natives’ cultural traditions and access to subsistence resources,”said Assistant Secretary of the Interior Janice Schneider.
Drawing from Shell's 2012 and 2015 Chukchi campaigns, the rules require operators in the Beaufort and Chukchi seas to have access to a second rig to drill a relief well in case of a loss of well control.
