1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to oppose H.J. Res. 140, which passed the House of Representatives on January 21, 2026, and is now before the Senate. This resolution threatens critical protections for the Boundary Waters watershed and sets a dangerous precedent for how we manage our public lands. H.J. Res. 140 would roll back a 20-year mining ban that currently protects the Boundary Waters watershed. Beyond this immediate impact, the resolution would block future administrations from using the same authority to implement similar protections. This undermines the ability of our government to respond to evolving environmental threats and community needs. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area represents irreplaceable wilderness that provides clean water, recreational opportunities, and ecological value to Minnesota and the nation. Mining operations in this watershed pose significant risks to water quality that could affect communities and ecosystems for generations. Once contaminated, these waters cannot be easily restored. I understand the economic arguments for mining development, but not every location is appropriate for extraction. The Boundary Waters watershed is too ecologically sensitive and too valuable as wilderness to risk permanent damage. There are other locations where mining can occur without threatening one of America's most pristine wilderness areas. As your constituent, I care deeply about clean water, wilderness preservation, and responsible stewardship of our public lands. These are not partisan issues but fundamental questions about what we leave for future generations. I ask that you oppose H.J. Res. 140 and support maintaining the current protections for the Boundary Waters watershed. Our public lands deserve leaders who will prioritize long-term environmental health over short-term extraction interests.