West Virginia Announces Competitive Bids for Oil and Gas Lease

The state's Division of Natural Resources is accepting bids for the right to lease and produce resources along the Ohio River.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has announced the acceptance of competitive bids for the right and privilege to lease and produce oil and gas resources owned by the state. The lease covers approximately 131.7 acres along a portion of the Ohio River, commencing at a point within mile marker 78 and concluding at a point within mile marker 79 in Brooke County.

Why it matters

This lease opportunity allows energy companies to bid on the rights to extract oil and gas resources from state-owned land, generating revenue for West Virginia. The location along the Ohio River provides access to valuable energy reserves, though any development would need to consider environmental impacts and community concerns.

The details

Interested parties must submit bids by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Office of Land and Streams in Charleston. The bid prospectus, which can be obtained electronically or by written request, contains details on the property, minimum bid requirements, bid opening date, and producer qualifications.

  • Bids are due by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
  • The lease area is located between mile markers 78 and 79 along the Ohio River.

The players

West Virginia Division of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing and leasing West Virginia's natural resources, including oil and gas reserves.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This competitive bid process allows energy companies to access valuable oil and gas resources in West Virginia, generating revenue for the state, but also raises concerns about environmental impacts and community engagement that will need to be carefully considered.