The federal statute governing hardrock mining (e.g., gold, uranium, and copper) has been basically the same for the last 135 years. Much has happened since then, especially how Americans relate to their public lands and waters.
H.R. 2262, The Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2007, was passed out of the Natural Resources Committee last week. American Whitewater, through our membership in the Outdoor Alliance, has been working to highlight the benefits of modernizing mining laws for those who enjoy the recreational opportunities public lands provide. While many conservation groups are weighing in to support this legislation, support from members of the recreation community is critical to success – you can make a difference!
The human-powered outdoor recreation community is pleased that this bill brings a balanced approach to mining on federal lands by:
• Properly recognizing core American public land values including conservation, stewardship and sustainable recreation by finally stopping the charmed status hardrock mining has enjoyed for generations;
• Conserving natural ecosystems and habitat by placing national forest roadless areas, BLM Wilderness Study Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, and other sensitive lands “off limits” to new mining claims;
• Preserving water quality by comprehensively incorporating environmental safeguards and financial assurance requirements into the law;
• Reforming the “patenting” system, which stunningly still allows the mining community to purchase public land at 1872 prices; and
• Adding reasonable extra protections to our National Parks and Monuments.
The House will vote to reform this outdated law on Thursday, November 1, 2007, so please contact your representative immediately!
Find contact information for your representative here: http://www.house.gov/writerep/