Story perspectives

Interior to auction 67 million acres of mining leases

8/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Interior Department announced a Dec. 16, 2026 auction of mining leases covering 67 million acres near the Northern Mariana Islands.
Director Matt Giacona said the plan aims to boost U.S. access to critical minerals for security.
Governor David Apatang said he neither supports nor opposes the mining pending data.
Environmental groups oppose the sale until marine-impact research is done, while supporters say the minerals could supply vehicles, electronics and gear.

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Story summary

The U.S. Interior Department announced a Dec. 16, 2026 auction of mining leases covering 67 million acres near the Northern Mariana Islands.
Director Matt Giacona said the plan aims to boost U.S. access to critical minerals for security.
Governor David Apatang said he neither supports nor opposes the mining pending data.
Environmental groups oppose the sale until marine-impact research is done, while supporters say the minerals could supply vehicles, electronics and gear.