WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a week that underscored the Trump administration’s drive to reshape America’s energy and environmental policy, the U.S. Department of the Interior unveiled a series of decisions spanning coal production, renewable energy, and wetland conservation. From approving major mining projects to reversing controversial wind initiatives, the agency is pairing aggressive resource development with targeted conservation investments.
$102.9 Million Approved for Wetland Conservation
The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved $102.9 million in funding under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), enabling the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners to protect, restore, or enhance more than 548,000 acres of wetland and upland habitat across North America. Over $201 million in matching funds will come from partner organizations.
“For more than 35 years, the North American Wetlands Conservation Act has fostered partnerships and an investment in wetland conservation that yield both ecological and economic returns for local communities and a broad range of industries, including tourism, commercial fisheries, forestry and agriculture,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.
NAWCA is the only federal grant program dedicated solely to migratory bird habitat. Since 1991, it has leveraged more than $7.1 billion in public and private funds to conserve over 32.9 million acres, benefiting wildlife and communities alike.
Montana Coal Expansion Secures Jobs and Energy Supply
The Interior Department has approved a mining plan modification for the Rosebud Mine in Montana, unlocking 33.75 million tons of federal coal and extending operations through 2039. The expansion will safeguard over 300 high-paying jobs and continue to power the Colstrip and Rosebud plants, capable of generating electricity for more than a million homes.
“This administration is focused on unleashing American energy, creating good-paying jobs and restoring economic certainty for our communities,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Adam Suess.
Lava Ridge Wind Project Approval Reversed
In a decisive pivot from the previous administration’s policies, Secretary Burgum announced the cancellation of the Biden-era approval for the Lava Ridge Wind Project in Idaho, which would have spanned more than 57,000 acres with up to 231 turbines. The Department cited legal deficiencies and community opposition in halting what Burgum called “one of the largest, most irresponsible wind projects in the nation.”
“Under President Donald Trump’s bold leadership, the Department is putting the brakes on deficient, unreliable energy and putting the American people first,” Burgum said.
Utah’s First Expedited Coal Lease Under New Law
For the first time under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Bureau of Land Management completed an expedited coal leasing process for Utah’s Skyline Mine. The move authorizes new leases and modifications projected to sustain local economies and provide affordable energy.
“This is a critical step in unleashing the full economic potential of our coal resources and delivering reliable, affordable energy to American families,” said Suess.
Offshore Wind Regulations Overhauled
The Department launched a full review of offshore wind regulations, pausing new approvals while it reassesses leasing and permitting practices. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement will evaluate financial and environmental standards to align with President Trump’s “America First Energy Dominance” strategy.
“The Department is fully committed to making sure that offshore energy development reflects President Trump’s America First Energy Dominance agenda and the real-world demands of today’s global energy landscape,” Burgum said.
Wyoming’s Antelope Mine Expansion Approved
Interior also approved a plan to extract 14.5 million tons of coal from the Antelope Mine in Wyoming, extending its life to 2037 and supporting 359 full-time jobs. The mine, operated by Navajo Transitional Energy Company, supplies low-sulfur, low-ash coal to power plants nationwide.
“The Trump administration is delivering on its promise to revitalize American coal and unleash our nation’s energy potential,” Burgum said.
A Dual Track of Development and Conservation
This flurry of actions reflects a two-pronged approach: advancing domestic energy independence while investing in environmental restoration. By expanding coal output in multiple states, rolling back wind projects, and strengthening migratory bird habitats, the Department is recalibrating the nation’s energy mix while underscoring its commitment to targeted conservation.
Supporters view it as a pragmatic balance between resource use and environmental care. Critics warn it tilts too heavily toward fossil fuels at the expense of renewable development. But one fact is clear — the Interior Department is moving quickly, reshaping America’s energy and conservation landscape in ways that will echo for decades.
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