Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced the Ruby Mountains Protection Act, a bill to prohibit oil and gas leasing on the Ruby Mountains.
“Expansive oil and gas drilling on the Ruby Mountains is not only a threat to one of the Silver State’s natural treasures, it also risks the livelihoods of Nevadans who rely on our state’s outdoor economy. I’m proud to stand alongside a coalition of local business leaders, conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts who are standing up to protect our pristine and sensitive public land areas threatened by harmful oil and gas drilling. It’s time for Congress to act to protect the Ruby Mountains for Nevadans, and the thousands of annual visitors from around the world that boost the economies of Elko and White Pine counties. Let’s ensure that future generations have the same opportunity to explore this beautiful landscape, just like so many Nevadans have before us.”
BACKGROUND:
The Ruby Mountains Protection Act would withdraw approximately 450,000 acres of National Forest System district land comprising the Ruby Mountain Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest from any eligibility for oil and gas leasing under the Mineral Leasing Act. The measure protects all existing multiple uses in the area including recreation, grazing and mining.
This legislation also covers any future land or interest in land acquired by the United States for inclusion in the Ruby Mountains Ranger District from future oil and gas leasing. The Ruby Mountains Protection Act would not affect any recreational use of these pristine lands, including for hunting, hiking and fishing.