** Senate overwhelmingly passes historic conservation legislation
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Thursday, June 18, 2020
A ranger leads a hike in Glacier National Park | National Park Service ([link removed])

Yesterday, the Senate passed historic conservation legislation ([link removed]) that will fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund and put $9.5 billion towards addressing the maintenance backlog in national parks. Westerners of all political stripes have long supported these two efforts to conserve our natural heritage—support that was reflected in an overwhelmingly bipartisan 73-25 vote.

The legislation will create a lasting conservation legacy ([link removed]) by putting tens of thousands of people to work maintaining trailheads and visitor centers, rebuilding roads, and creating new local parks. Such an effort comes at a critical time ([link removed]) as the nation struggles to recover from public health and economic crises.

In providing funds to build new parks, expand access to open space, and protect critical habitat, the bill provides momentum towards the next bold goal—conserving 30 percent of America by 2030 ([link removed]) . All eyes now turn towards ([link removed]) the House of Representatives, where a broad coalition is pushing for a vote in the coming weeks.


** Recognizing Juneteenth
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In honor of Juneteenth, an annual holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, we will not publish Look West tomorrow.
Quick hits


** Senate passes historic bill to fund much-needed national parks maintenance, Land and Water Conservation Fund
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New York Times ([link removed]) | Washington Post ([link removed]) | Associated Press ([link removed]) | The Hill ([link removed]) | Colorado Sun ([link removed]) | USA Today ([link removed]) | Helena Independent Record ([link removed]) | Grand Junction Daily Sentinel
([link removed]) | New Mexico Political Report ([link removed])


** Members of Congress call for firing of senior Interior official who has repeatedly broken ethics rules
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The Hill ([link removed])


** Investigation finds millions of abandoned oil wells are leaking methane, speeding climate change
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Reuters ([link removed])


** After delaying New Mexico oil and gas lease auction, BLM announces land will be back on the block in August
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Carlsbad Current-Argus ([link removed])


** Former top regulator urges Interior to withdraw proposal that would weaken public involvement in mine safety
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Casper Star-Tribune ([link removed])


** Montana coal production falls nearly 10% amid weak demand
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Billings Gazette ([link removed])


** Mining unions look to compel COVID-19 safety measures
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Wyoming Public Media ([link removed])


** Opinion: Land and Water Conservation Fund will help protect Nevada's natural heritage
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Reno Gazette Journal ([link removed])
Quote of the day
This all but eliminates the ability of citizens to protect themselves and others from coal mines that are operating in violation of the permit and regulatory standards designated to safeguard public health and safety.”
—Shannon Anderson ([link removed]) , Powder River Basin Resource Council
Picture this
@Interior ([link removed])
The mighty Colorado River weaves through Grand Canyon National Park, shaping the landscape while adding tremendous beauty. Pic by Cliff LaPlant.

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