# BOEM Seeks Input on Virginia Seabed Leasing

On June 23, 2026, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a Request for Information on potential commercial seabed mineral leasing across approximately 2,764 square miles of federal waters off Virginia. This is an early-stage information-gathering effort—not a lease sale or a decision to issue leases. If the process advances, firms could have opportunities to support geological and environmental surveys, fisheries and navigation studies, and National Environmental Policy Act analysis; BOEM has not announced a submission deadline or procurement contact.

- Companies with relevant marine survey, environmental, fisheries, navigation, or NEPA capabilities can submit proprietary indications of interest to BOEM.
- The RFI signals a possible future market, but firms should distinguish this planning stage from an active lease solicitation or contract opportunity.
- Any leasing decision would follow additional review and formal notices, so there is no announced award or procurement schedule to plan against.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities, Environment
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

### Vendors
- Odyssey Marine Exploration (unsolicited lease applicant)

### Sources
- [BOEM Opens Comment on Virginia Seabed Mineral Leasing | E+E Leader](https://www.environmentenergyleader.com/articles/44990-boem-opens-comment-on-virginia-seabed-mineral-leasing) - Environmental Leader