The United States Forest Service has requested that the Secretary of the Interior withdraw over 264,000 acres of Federal land in the Ruby Mountains from leasing for minerals and geothermal energy for 20 years to protect the area's natural and cultural resources. This withdrawal request includes additional non-Federal lands that might be acquired by the U.S. in the future. During a two-year temporary segregation period from December 31, 2024, these lands will not be available for leasing, but public input is invited through a 90-day comment period, including a virtual meeting on February 14, 2025. The process for this application will follow existing regulations.
Simple Explanation
The Forest Service wants to keep a big piece of land in the Ruby Mountains safe from being used for digging up rocks and energy for the next 20 years. They are asking people to share their thoughts about this plan.