The Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Lands Act grants the Department of the Interior and BOEM the authority to manage non-energy marine minerals on the OCS. For example, BOEM leases sand, gravel, or shell resources from the OCS for shore protection, beach nourishment, and barrier island restoration. The bureau also oversees leasing of other strategic and critical minerals to support our nation’s security and economy.
BOEM manages these marine minerals in a manner that facilitates access, promotes responsible use, and minimizes or avoids environmental impacts.
