BLM Temporarily Halts New Mining Claims to Safeguard Ash Meadows

In a great win for community-driven conservation and a giant step towards protecting one of Nevada’s most ecologically diverse and culturally significant regions, the federal government is starting the mineral withdrawal process for 308,890 acres of public land in Amargosa Valley, just outside of Ash Meadows. The mineral withdrawal enables the federal government to temporarily stop new mining claims in Ash Meadows to protect the area's environmental, cultural, and recreational resources while a thorough review is conducted.

 “The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has worked tireless to protect Ash Meadows for over 40 years. We understand how significant this area is- not only for its incredible biodiversity but also for its cultural significance and for local economies,” said Mauricia Baca, the Director for TNC in Nevada. “Drilling in this area poses a threat to the delicate aquifer system that sustains this community. That’s why TNC brought in our science resources to help find solutions. Now, we are one step closer to ensuring the long-term protection of this precious area for both nature and people.”

The Nature Conservancy in Nevada commissioned a study to evaluate the potential impacts of mining on groundwater resources near Ash Meadows. Through the study, TNC found that drilling activities could significantly alter groundwater flows that sustain the springs in the northern part of Ash Meadows, which would impact the region’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

Armed with this crucial information, a coalition of Tribal Nations, rural communities, and conservationists, including TNC, mobilized to further protect the region.  

“This victory is a testament to the importance of community driven conservation,” said Jaina Moan, the Nevada External Affairs Director for the Nature Conservancy. “Local, collaborative efforts are essential to  achieve meaningful conservation outcomes and ensure the long-term protection of vital areas like Ash Meadows.”

For the next two years, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is temporarily stopping new mining claims while it reviews Amargosa Valley’s ecosystems, groundwater resources, and sacred Indigenous sites to consider a full 20-year withdrawal.

While this is a significant first step, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, which includes public input and stakeholder engagement, will ultimately decide if these lands receive the enhanced protections needed for future generations.

Thank you to Senator Cortez Masto, Senator Jacky Rosen, Representative Steven Horsford, Representative Dina Titus, and Representative Lee for their support for the mineral withdrawal.

There were many conservation organizations who supported the withdrawal.