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MAY 8, 2001

Tribes in Montana and beyond on Monday asked the Bureau of Land Management to reconsider its decision to allow a company to drill an exploratory oil well at a sacred site.

The Valley of Shields in Weatherman Draw, Montana, contains ancient rock art and has archaeological remains. Tribes still use the area for ceremonial purposes.

The BLM, an agency of the Department of Interior, considers the site an "Area of Critical Environmental Concern." The designation brings extra management protections to the area.

The BLM held a review session with representatives from tribes about the exploratory well. Ten tribes, along with environmental groups, are asking the BLM not to allow Anschutz Exploration Corp. to drill.

The BLM in February said drilling could occur because it wouldn't damage the site.

Get BLM Documents:
Environmental Assessment: ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION WEATHERMAN DRAW PROJECT (BLM 2/1)
Anschutz Exploration Corp. will be allowed to drill (BLM 2/6)
Weatherman Draw Oil and Gas Exploration (BLM 2/16)

Get the Story:
ribes appeal to BLM to stop oil well from being drilled in Weatherman Draw (The Billings Gazette 5/8)