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<br />.~ <br /> <br />j: <br /> <br />3. <br /> <br />Minerals <br /> <br />The effects of the alternatives on mineral resources <br />is significant. Mineral exploration may take place <br />under either the suitable or unsuitable alternative. <br />After December 31, 1983, however, under the 1964 <br />Wilderness Act, wilderness areas would be withdrawn <br />from mineral entry. Under the suitable alternative <br />with a designation as wilderness, effective time to <br />conduct exploration and develop the resources, if <br />discovered, would be significantly restricted. <br />Access as well would be severely restricted. Costs <br />of mitigation and restoration would also increase. <br />Potential mineral resources, otherwise discovered <br />and developed, might be foregone. A detailed <br />mineral evaluation will not be completed by December <br />31, 1983. <br /> <br />Under the uDsuitable alternative, mineral <br />exploration and development would continue to be <br />administered according to the mining laws and laws <br />pertaining to mineral leasing on National Forest <br />land without a time limitation. Development of <br />mineral resources would support local Government <br />goals and assist local economies. <br /> <br />Until Congress determines otherwise, the WSA is <br />administered to maintain the present existing <br />wilderness character provided that oil, gas, or <br />mineral exploration is administered according to the <br />laws generally applicable to the National Forest <br />System as directed by PL 96-560. <br /> <br />On the 250 acres where minerals are owned by others, <br />development could occur under either alternative. <br /> <br />Table I illustrates the area <br />leasing recommendations under <br />unsuitable alternatives as set <br />Land Management Plan and DEIS. <br /> <br />subject to mineral <br />the suitable and <br />forth in the Forest <br /> <br />44 <br /> <br />(2840 <br />