Millions of Americans rely on water from the Colorado River for recreation, drinking and irrigation purposes. Photo by Mark Lellouch
In a decision widely acclaimed by sportsmen, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar recently announced a moratorium on new mining claims on public lands surrounding the Grand Canyon. More than 1 million acres of Bureau of Land Management and U.S Forest Service lands to the north and south of the Grand Canyon are being withdrawn from new mining projects. The decision follows a temporary ban and is a huge victory for hunters and anglers who enjoy the area’s diverse and abundant wildlife.
By withdrawing these vast public land holdings from new mining projects, valuable habitat is secured for sought after big-game species like elk and mule deer. These areas are among the most productive habitats in the country for these species, and Salazar’s announcement represents a great stride forward in conserving this culturally significant region.
“Sportsmen from all over the country vie for the permits issued by the Arizona Game and Fish Department to hunt elk and mule deer each year,” said Dr. Bennett Brown, a TRCP field representative and avid big-game hunter. “These hunters spend millions of dollars annually pursuing their quarry in one of the most spectacular landscapes remaining in North America.”
The mining moratorium also works to secure clean drinking water, which can be threatened by irresponsible mining practices that contaminate aquifers. Millions of Americans rely on water from the Colorado River for drinking and irrigation purposes. Risk of contamination is significantly reduced by the decision, which also protects habitat for native fish species such as the endangered razorback sucker and humpback chub.
President Theodore Roosevelt said of the Grand Canyon, “Leave it as it is. You cannot improve upon it. The ages have been at work on it, and man can only mar it.”
Learn more about the TRCP’s work to ensure responsible mining on America's public lands.
Learn about the local and state level clubs and organizations that work with the TRCP to guarantee all Americans a place to hunt and fish. Learn More
