Federal Judge Extends Gulf Species Review Deadline

A federal judge has granted the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) until May 21, 2025, to complete a new biological opinion assessing the impacts of offshore oil and gas drilling on endangered species in the Gulf of Mexico, extending the previous deadline of December 20, 2024. This ruling, made by U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman, is seen as a significant victory for the oil and gas industry, which argued that failing to meet the deadline could halt drilling operations. Environmental groups have expressed disappointment, stating the delay undermines protections for critically endangered species such as the Rice's whale. The judge's August ruling had found the NMFS's prior assessment flawed, lacking adequate consideration of risks from oil spills and vessel strikes. The NMFS will provide regular updates to the court on its progress as the new deadline approaches. Industry representatives welcomed the decision, emphasizing the need to balance environmental protection with energy production demands.