President Barack Obama has banned new uranium mining claims on 1 million acres of land around the Grand Canyon for the next 20 years. The decision, announced by Interior Secretary Ken Salazar at a film screening in Washington, aims to protect one of the world's most iconic natural landmarks.
Salazar stated, 'A withdrawal is the right approach for this priceless American landscape. People from all over the country and around the world come to visit the Grand Canyon. Numerous American Indian tribes regard this magnificent icon as a sacred place, and millions of people in the Colorado River Basin depend on the river.'
The ban does not affect approximately 3,200 existing mining claims, and the administration confirmed that development of 11 uranium mines will continue. Environmental groups praised the move, with Jane Danowitz of the Pew Environment Group saying, 'Despite significant pressure, the president did not settle for a halfway measure.'
During the final years of the George W. Bush presidency, rising uranium prices led to thousands of new mining claims near the canyon. Salazar imposed a temporary halt in 2009, and the 20-year ban was proposed after an environmental review last October. The review highlighted concerns about uranium contamination, including a creek in the national park and high levels of arsenic from old operations affecting the Colorado River.
Republicans, including former presidential candidate John McCain, criticised the decision as an emotional overreaction that would harm mining and tourism jobs. However, Gene Karpinski of the League of Conservation Voters argued that protecting the tourism industry, which depends on the canyon, makes more economic sense and safeguards drinking water for millions downstream.
