This part does not apply to:

(a) G&G prospecting activities conducted by, or on behalf of, the lessee on a lease on the OCS;

(b) Federal agencies;

(c) Postlease activities for mineral resources other than oil, gas, and sulphur, which are covered by regulations at 30 CFR parts 582 and 282; and

(d) G&G exploration or G&G scientific research activities related to oil, gas, and sulphur, including gas hydrates, which are covered by regulations at 30 CFR parts 551 and 251.