Parks Group Hails DOI Sec. Salazar for Protecting Grand Canyon from Hazardous New Uranium Mines

Statement by Craig Obey, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs, National Parks Conservation Association:

“Today, Sec. Salazar has acted to preserve the integrity and health of one of our nation’s most unique natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. By taking one million acres of land adjacent to Grand Canyon National Park off the table for new uranium mining claims, he has taken bold action to preserve for future generations the beauty and health of what is perhaps America’s most awe-inspiring landscape.

“Sec. Salazar’s action will protect the ecological integrity of the Grand Canyon, the quality of the water of the Colorado River, and the visitors to this internationally renowned treasure. It will ensure that the estimated $687 million in revenue and more than 12,000 full-time jobs that the Grand Canyon brings to the area through tourists and other visitors will be preserved. And it will protect millions of people downstream, who rely on the Colorado River as a clean source of drinking water, from dangerous contaminants.

”Sec. Salazar has put the millions of annual visitors to the Grand Canyon and those who depend on the water of Colorado River above mining special interests. His actions and those of congressional champions who have been opposing legislative efforts to undermine this important new protection are essential to the continued preservation of this universally beloved natural icon.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.