Forest Service Responds to Daines' Demand for Paradise Valley Mineral Withdrawal

Statement

U.S. Senator Steve Daines today praised the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) for recommending the withdrawal of approximately 30,000 acres of the Custer Gallatin National Forest from mineral entry in the Paradise Valley and Gardner Basins. Daines has urged the withdrawal given the strong local support.

"The Paradise Valley and Gardner Basin are truly special places that deserve protection," Daines said. "After an extensive process and public input, I'm glad to see that the Forest Service listened to the voices of the residents and is recommending this withdrawal."

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"I've always said there are places where it is appropriate to mine and places where it isn't. The Paradise Valley is one of those unique places. I've long fought for the protection of the valley since I was in Congress, and now the Department is looking at finalizing the withdrawal in the coming weeks. I thank the Forest Service for their consultation on this matter," Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said.

The Custer Gallatin National Forest has completed its Environmental Assessment of possible mining in the Emigrant Gulch and Crevice Peak areas and is recommending that the Secretary of Interior withdraw approximately 30,000 acres of USFS land from mining consideration.

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