Rescission of regulations regarding prospecting for mineral resources
This direct final rule rescinds a portion of the Bureau of Land Management's regulations that address prospecting for mineral resources on National Forest System lands.
The final rule is effective on September 22, 2025, unless significant adverse comments are received by August 21, 2025. If significant adverse comments are received, notice will be published in the Federal Register before the Effective Date either withdrawing the rule or issuing a new final rule that responds to significant adverse comments.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.