On January 9, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced a ban on new mining claims on public land surrounding the Grand Canyon. This decision protects more than 1 million acres of Bureau of Land Management and U.S Forest Service land to the north and south of the Grand Canyon from new uranium mining and mineral exploration.

This historic action will protect critical wildlife habitats, keep drinking water for millions who live downstream clean and safe, and preserve the region’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, safeguarding tourism-related jobs.

Theodore Roosevelt designated the Grand Canyon as a national monument on January 11, 1908, declaring, “Let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. You cannot improve on it. But what you can do is keep it for your children, your children’s children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.”

The reasons to protect this special place are as countless as the spectacular views. During the announcement, Secretary Salazar stated, “We have been entrusted to care for and protect our precious environmental and cultural resources, and we have chosen a responsible path that makes sense for this and future generations.”