Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Obama Administration switch on Resolution Copper land exchange?


Supporters of the Resolution Copper are saying the Obama Administration switched its position on the Congressional land exchange bill. [right, land exchange parcel overview. Credit, Resolution Copper]

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests held a hearing June 17, on Senate Bill 409.

Senators Kyl and McCain are reported to be complaining that the U.S. Forest Service and the Dept. of Interior changed their stance on the bill and are now raising concerns about Native American opposition to the project.

In addition, Globe newspaper says Subcommittee Chair Ron Wyden projects 2-3 years to evaluate the project, rather than one year as supporters hoped for.