The Biden administration moves to ban oil and gas leasing in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains for 20 years, just weeks before Trump’s inauguration.
At a Glance
- Biden plans to withdraw 264,000 acres of federal lands from oil, gas, and geothermal leasing
- A 90-day public comment period will be initiated, with development paused for two years
- The decision comes in response to requests from Native American tribes and conservationists
- Mining activities will still be permitted in the area
- The move precedes Donald Trump’s inauguration, who favors increased oil and gas production
Biden’s Last-Minute Conservation Effort
The Biden administration has announced plans to implement a 20-year moratorium on oil and gas leases in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains. This significant move comes just weeks before Donald Trump, who is known for favoring increased oil and gas production, takes office. The Department of the Interior has filed an application to withdraw 264,000 acres of federal lands from leasing, initiating a 90-day public comment period.
During this comment period, development will be paused for two years, although mining activities will still be permitted in the area. This decision was influenced by requests from Native American tribes and conservationists who have long sought stronger protection for these lands.
Conservation Support and Concerns
The action has garnered support from various groups, including hunters and anglers, who have advocated for increased land protection in the Ruby Mountains. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the importance of preserving the area for recreation and wildlife.
“The Ruby Mountains have no known oil reserves, and this withdrawal does nothing to ward off the truly urgent threat of gold mining.” – Patrick Donnelly
However, Patrick Donnelly from the Center for Biological Diversity, while supporting the decision, noted that it doesn’t address the threat of gold mining in the region. This highlights the complex nature of land management and resource extraction issues in the area.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This isn’t the first time the Ruby Mountains have been at the center of oil and gas leasing debates. In 2019, the U.S. Forest Service determined that oil and gas leasing was unsuitable in the region, which was seen as a victory against Trump’s energy exploration policies. Additionally, a study during Trump’s administration that considered leasing 54,000 acres for drilling was rejected after significant public opposition.
Geological surveys have indicated low potential for oil in the Ruby Mountains, further supporting the case for conservation over exploration. However, it remains uncertain whether the incoming Trump administration will pursue leases in the area, which may face challenges due to this new proposal.
Looking Ahead
As the transition of power approaches, the fate of the Ruby Mountains hangs in the balance. The Biden administration’s last-minute conservation effort sets the stage for potential conflict with the incoming administration’s energy policies. The 90-day public comment period will likely see intense debate from various stakeholders, including environmental groups, energy companies, and local communities.
While the moratorium on oil and gas leases is a significant step towards conservation, it also highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing environmental protection with resource development. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how the Trump administration responds to this proposal and what it means for the future of the Ruby Mountains and similar conservation efforts across the country.
