Two uranium mining lobby groups filed appeals Tuesday challenging a recent ruling upholding a ban on new mining claims near the Grand Canyon. This is the second time the ban has been challenged in the court system.
The ban was enacted in 2012 by then Interior Secretary Ken Salazar. It prohibits new and limits existing uranium mining claims for 20 years on about 1 million acres near the Grand Canyon.
Mining industry groups sued unsuccessfully to have the ban overturned in 2012, saying it was irresponsible public policy.
Conservation groups and the Havasupai Tribe say the policy will protect groundwater, cultural resources and other landscapes around the Grand Canyon.
In a written statement, the groups said they plan to fight the uranium industry’s appeal.
