The Biden administration on Monday advanced efforts to safeguard the Ruby Mountains in northeast Nevada from oil, gas, and geothermal development for the next 20 years.
The Interior Department approved a U.S. Forest Service application to withdraw 264,442 acres of federal lands in the Ruby Mountains from mineral and geothermal leasing. This approval temporarily halts development for up to two years while initiating a 90-day public comment period on the proposed 20-year protection.
The move comes weeks before President-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to expand domestic oil and gas production, takes office. Outgoing President Joe Biden has prioritized conserving public lands.
Mining claims will still be allowed on the withdrawn lands, according to the Interior Department.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland emphasized the importance of the Ruby Mountains, citing their scenic beauty, cultural significance, and contributions to the local economy through outdoor recreation. “Today, we are taking an important and sensible step to pause new oil and gas leasing to ensure that we have the science and public input necessary to inform proposed protections of the Ruby Mountains area for future generations,” Haaland said.
The Ruby Mountains are valued by local communities for their wildlife and recreational opportunities. This decision underscores the administration’s commitment to balancing environmental conservation with public and scientific input.
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