Latest U.S. Department of the Interior News

Nevada lithium mine will crush rare plant habitat US said is critical to its survival, lawsuit says

Nov. 03, 2024 17:01 PM EST

RENO, Nev. (AP) — Conservationists and an advocacy group for Native Americans are suing the U.S. to try to block a Nevada lithium mine they say will drive an endangered desert wildflower to extinction, disrupt groundwater flows and threaten cultural resources. The Center for...

A tiny tribe is getting pushback for betting big on a $600M casino in California's wine country

Oct. 01, 2024 13:47 PM EDT

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — For decades a small, landless tribe in Northern California has been on a mission to get land, open a casino and tap into the gaming market enjoyed by so many other tribes that earn millions of dollars annually. The Koi Nation's chances of owning a Las...

As Colorado River states await water cuts, they struggle to find agreement on longer-term plans

Aug. 14, 2024 17:31 PM EDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal government is expected to announce water cuts soon that would affect some of the 40 million people reliant on the Colorado River, the powerhouse of the U.S. West. The Interior Department announces water availability for the coming year months in advance so Western...