RECENTLY RELEASED REPORTS

OIG Finds Lease Enforcement Shortcomings

"Evaluation of the Office of Natural Resources Revenue, Office of Enforcement"
We evaluated OE's process for obtaining compliance from lessees and operators that violate lease terms, regulations, or Federal law during leasing and production of energy and mineral resources on Federal and Indian lands. While OE generally obtains compliance and negotiates reasonable settlements, it could improve its timeliness and efficiency in these areas. In addition, ONRR does not always issue Notices of Noncompliance in a timely manner or assess civil penalties after doing so, nor does it prepare required risk assessment summaries or fully justify and document civil penalties in its case files. Finally, ONRR could better protect its financial interests when managing settlements and appeals.
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FWS to Improve Monitoring of its Conservation Easements

"U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Conservation Easement Enforcement and Monitoring"
OIG conducted an evaluation to determine if FWS is protecting conservation easements through adequate monitoring and enforcement. Overall, we found that FWS is not effectively monitoring is large inventory of conservation easements. FWS derives substantial benefits for wildlife from the acquisition of conservation easements and does so at a lower cost than if the lands were purchased outright. The benefits to affected habitat and wildlife can be quickly lost, however, if FWS is not diligent in ensuring that landowners adhere to the restrictions on the use of their property that FWS has purchased.
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Greater Use of VTC Would Bring Savings

"U.S. Department of the Interior's Video Conferencing Usage"
OIG evaluated the Department’s use of video teleconferencing to determine the potential financial and operational benefits from the technology. We found that the Department has an opportunity to save millions of dollars in annual travel expenses and make progress toward its environmental sustainability goal through greater use of VTC. The Department has 315 video conferencing endpoints located throughout the nation that, for a variety of reasons, are not being maximized. The Department is currently developing strategies to increase use of video conferencing.
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Semiannual Report to Congress Cites OIG Accomplishments

"Semiannual Report to Congress - April 1, 2011 - September 30, 2011"
Major investigative and audit activities concluded by OIG during the 6-month period from April 1, 2011, to September 30, 2011, included coverage of a settlement with Quinex Energy and Enel Green Power resulting in recovered royalty payments. We also evaluated DOI programs to identify successful program planning models, inspected contracting services provided by AQD-Sierra Vista, and audited the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ administration of wildland fire suppression funds. The report also includes updates on the ongoing activities of the OIG’s Strategy Management Office and the Recovery Oversight Office.
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VI Legislature Weaknesses Continue Without Policies

"Administrative Functions - Legislature of the Virgin Islands"
In a joint audit of the administrative functions of the Virgin Islands Legislature, the OIG found that the Legislature is not using sound business practices to manage its money and resources. There is a lack of accountability, transparency, and documented procedures to prevent fraud, waste, and mismanagement. Specifically, there are weaknesses related to cash advances, employee bonuses, security of sensitive equipment, and procurement practices. OIG recommended that the VI Legislature establish and document policies to correct these weaknesses and encourage accountability.
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