Senators Murray, Cantwell Applaud Move to Protect Methow Valley from Mining for Next Two Years

Statement

Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for taking a critical step toward protecting the Methow Headwaters in North Central Washington by issuing a segregation notice to make 340,000 acres off-limits to mining for two years while it studies whether long-term protection is warranted. The senators have advocated for permanent protection of the land in order to safeguard the natural resources in the region, including water and salmon, as well as local recreation opportunities.

"This action is a huge step forward in our fight to preserve and protect our state's incredible resources for future generations," Senator Murray said. "I am especially grateful to the local community members who have led the charge to protect investments in salmon recovery, and defend tribal treaty rights and the region's outdoor economy. In the coming months and years, I will continue to work with the community and my colleagues in Congress to make sure the Methow Valley is permanently protected from devastating mining operations."

"The Methow Valley is too significant to allow mining exploration that threatens our clean water. I'm glad to see the department continuing work on the withdrawal application, and I will stay focused on ensuring the process moves quickly to protect this pristine region," Senator Cantwell said.

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