As President-elect Trump’s inauguration approaches, the Biden administration is making one last push to protect Nevada’s stunning Ruby Mountains from oil and gas drilling. The Department of the Interior has proposed a 20-year ban on new oil and gas leases across 264,000 acres of the area. This decision is a big step toward preserving the beauty of the Ruby Mountains and its surrounding wildlife.
In a recent statement, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized just how important this area is, saying, “The Ruby Mountains are an iconic landscape with exceptional recreation opportunities and valuable fish and wildlife habitat worth preserving for the future.” He also highlighted how this move reflects the voices of Tribal communities and conservation groups, signaling a strong commitment to protecting this beloved part of Nevada.
This proposal marks a shift from the past. Back in 2019, during Trump’s first term, the Forest Service considered leasing part of this land for oil and gas exploration. However, after receiving thousands of objections from locals and people across the country, that plan was scrapped. Interestingly, geological surveys had shown that there was very little potential for oil in the area.
Although this new ban doesn’t impact mining operations, it’s a clear effort to keep drilling out of the Ruby Mountains. With a two-year review period and a 90-day public comment phase, the administration is ensuring that the public has a say in preserving this stunning landscape for generations to come.
