Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen has called on Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to overturn federal land designations that prohibit uranium mining near the Grand Canyon. In a letter to Secretary Burgum, Petersen criticized actions by previous administrations, particularly President Joe Biden’s 2023 proclamation establishing the “Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni” or “Ancestral Footprints National Monument,” which protected approximately 900,000 acres near the Grand Canyon. This designation effectively banned uranium exploration in the area.
Petersen emphasized the strategic importance of domestic uranium production, noting that the United States currently relies heavily on foreign sources for its uranium supply. He argued that lifting these restrictions would enhance national energy independence and security. “Virtually all of the uranium used in America comes from foreign powers,” Petersen stated, highlighting the potential of the region, which is estimated to contain over 300 million pounds of uranium.
The senator also expressed concerns about federal overreach, pointing out that nearly half of Arizona’s land is federally owned. He described the national monument designation as a “land grab” that deprives Arizonans of valuable resources and economic opportunities. Petersen has been a vocal opponent of such federal actions for over a decade, advocating for state control over land and resource management.
In his letter, Petersen urged swift action to rescind the monument designation, aligning with President Donald Trump’s directive to remove barriers hindering domestic energy development. He expressed optimism that the current administration would prioritize Arizona’s rights and contribute to making the state and nation “great again.”
The debate over uranium mining near the Grand Canyon has been contentious, balancing environmental conservation against energy needs and economic development. Proponents of mining argue that it provides a critical resource for nuclear energy and national security, while opponents raise concerns about potential environmental impacts and the preservation of natural and cultural sites.
