GAITHERSBURG, MD ----- The Izaak Walton League of America fully supports Interior Secretary Haaland's decision to prevent copper-sulfide mining near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).
This vast system of wild lands and waterways in northern Minnesota is public land that was designated as wilderness in 1964 to protect its unique, wild character.
Secretary Haaland announced a 20-year mineral withdrawal for BWCAW today.
Comment by Scott Kovarovics, Executive Director, Izaak Walton League of America
“The Izaak Walton League has worked to protect this treasured resource since the 1920s. We’ve long known that the wilderness designation for the Boundary Waters is the highest and best use of these fragile public lands and waters. With its action today, the Department of the Interior is fulfilling its responsibilities as trustee of these resources so vital to protecting fish and wildlife, clean water and the outdoor recreation economy in this unique ‘canoe country’ wilderness.”
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area is America’s most-visited wilderness area. The mining that had been proposed for this region would lead to catastrophic damage to water quality in the BWCAW due to sulfide drainage from mining operations.
Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League fights for clean air and water, healthy fish and wildlife habitat and conservation of our natural resources for future generations. The League plays a unique role in supporting community-based science and local conservation and has a long legacy of shaping sound national and local policy. See www.iwla.org.
Contact: Michael Reinemer, mreinemer@ilwa.org, 301-548-0150 ext 220