S. 1366 protects approximately 225,500 acres of federal land and water in Minnesota's Rainy River Watershed, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park, by withdrawing them from future mining claims, mineral leasing, and public land sales. The bill prevents private companies and individuals from staking mining claims, obtaining mineral leases, or acquiring the land through standard public land programs, with an exception allowing the Forest Service Chief to permit limited removal of sand, gravel, granite, iron ore, and taconite if such removal won't harm water quality, air quality, or forest health. The legislation affects mining and resource extraction companies that might otherwise develop these lands, while protecting the wilderness area for recreation and conservation for future generations. No specific funding is allocated in the bill, and the withdrawal takes effect upon enactment. Maps showing the protected area will be maintained by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management for public review.
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