Withdrawal Application and Public Meeting for the Ruby Mountains; Nevada

The United States Forest Service (USFS) has filed an application requesting that the Secretary of the Interior withdraw approximately 264,441.79 acres of Federal lands in the Ruby Mountains from leasing under the mineral and geothermal laws, for 20 years, subject to valid existing rights. The application also includes approximately 44,670.87 acres of non- Federal lands that would be subject to the withdrawal if they are subsequently acquired by the United States. The purpose of the withdrawal would be to preserve the scenic values, recreational opportunities, outdoor economy, rare wildlife and plant habitat, and cultural resources that the Ruby Mountains and neighboring spaces support. The lands would remain open to location and entry under the U.S. mining laws, and subject to mineral material disposal under the Materials Act of 1947. Publication of this notice temporarily segregates the lands for up to 2 years, initiates a 90-day public comment period, and announces to the public an opportunity to comment and participate in a virtual public meeting on the USFS' withdrawal application.