Federal Agencies Move to Protect Nevada’s Ruby Mountains from Oil and Gas Leasing

Today, the Department of the Interior published a segregation notice in the Federal Register initiating the process of withdrawing approximately 264,000 acres in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains from oil, gas, and geothermal development. The U.S. Forest Service had submitted a withdrawal petition and application to Secretary Deb Haaland to protect the landscape.   
 

The rugged Ruby Mountains, with their unparalleled big-game habitat, draw outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world to experience towering peaks and remarkable wildlife, like the Himalayan snowcock. Nevadans depend on these public lands for grazing, hunting, fishing, and many other forms of outdoor recreation. Protecting the region from future oil and gas drilling will ensure a healthy future for its wildlife, clean air and mountain streams. It will also keep these lands open to hunters, anglers and everyone else who seeks adventure and refuge in this wild place. 
 

“We celebrate today’s announcement from the federal government that will protect recreational and natural resources in Nevada’s cherished Ruby Mountains,” said The Wilderness Society’s Nevada State Director Jose Witt. “Local communities, sportsmen and women, backcountry explorers and many more have long advocated for additional protections of the Rubies, which contribute to Nevada's $4.9-billion recreational economy. We look forward to working with the state's delegation and the incoming administration to see these proposed protections established.”   
 

The segregation notice automatically withdraws the land from oil and gas development for the next two years and simultaneously kicks off a 90-day public comment meeting period. Depending on the outcome of the public comment period, the agencies can decide whether to withdraw all oil and gas lease rights for the next 20 years.  
 

Federal agencies are seeking public input about this plan. Stand with local community members, hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts and submit your comment in support of this withdrawal. Urge the federal agencies and the incoming administration to protect Nevada’s Ruby Mountains from oil and gas development.  
 

The Wilderness Society, alongside local Nevadans, celebrates this action and applauds Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen, as well as the Biden administration, for their leadership. 

To connect with our team in Nevada, contact Gaby Diaz: gaby_diaz@tws.org