The Biden administration is making a last-minute move to protect a large chunk of land in Nevada from oil and gas drilling, just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. This week, the Department of the Interior announced its plan to block new oil and gas leases on 264,000 acres in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains for the next 20 years.
To kick off this effort, the administration filed an application to temporarily halt any new mineral leases in the area while the proposal is under review. This effectively creates a two-year pause during which no new leases can be granted. Now, the proposal heads into a 90-day public comment period, where people can weigh in. However, this process will fall under the Trump administration, as the leadership transition takes place before the ban can be finalized.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack shared why this move is significant, explaining that the Ruby Mountains are a special place, known for their natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and diverse wildlife. He emphasized the importance of protecting this land for future generations. Vilsack also mentioned that the decision reflects input from Tribal communities, conservation groups, and outdoor enthusiasts who see the value in preserving this iconic area.
Interestingly, the proposed restrictions only apply to oil and gas drilling—mining activities in the region won’t be affected.
The Trump administration has previously looked into this area for oil and gas opportunities. Back in his first term, the Forest Service studied whether 54,000 acres in the Ruby Mountains could be leased for drilling. But in 2019, the plan was scrapped after thousands of people—locals, Nevadans, and others from across the country—spoke out against it during the public comment period.
Adding to the case against drilling, Jenna Padilla, a geologist for the Humboldt-Toiyabe Ruby Mountains ranger district at the time, pointed out that geological surveys didn’t show much promise for oil in the area. In fact, she stated that the potential for finding oil there was slim to none.
It remains unclear if the Trump administration will try to reopen discussions about leasing this land for drilling. However, with the Biden administration’s new proposal on the table, any such plans could face significant challenges moving forward.
