Friday, January 23, 2026-The U.S. House of Representatives voted along party lines to overturn longstanding mining protections near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounding watersheds, advancing legislation to the Senate that could reopen more than 225,000 acres of the Superior National Forest to mineral leasing and development.
The resolution passed 214–208, with supporters arguing that lifting the protections would strengthen domestic mineral production critical for technology and national security, while opponents warned of serious environmental consequences if mining is allowed near the fragile watershed.
The measure, introduced under the Congressional Review Act, seeks to nullify a 20-year mining moratorium covering public lands in the Rainy River Watershed, which borders the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
If approved by the Senate with a simple majority, the resolution would move to the president for signature and could clear the path for proposed copper-nickel mining projects near the headwaters of the wilderness area. Backers emphasize potential job creation and reduced reliance on foreign minerals, while critics highlight the risks of sulfide-ore mining to water quality and wildlife.
Environmental groups, tribal leaders, and some lawmakers argue the rollback threatens one of the nation’s most pristine wilderness areas and could undermine local economies that depend on tourism and outdoor recreation. They warn the vote sets a precedent for reversing environmental protections on public lands nationwide. With the bill now heading to the Senate, attention is focused on whether lawmakers will uphold or dismantle safeguards that have long protected the Boundary Waters and its surrounding ecosystems.
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