Critical Minerals: A Hunting and Fishing Perspective

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Forging a path forward to support responsible critical minerals development with conservation values.

As the demand for critical minerals increases—powering everything from renewable energy to electric vehicles—it’s more important than ever to ensure domestic mining is done responsibly.

Trout Unlimited, alongside National Wildlife Federation, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and The Nature Conservancy has released the latest edition of Critical Minerals: A Hunting and Fishing Perspective, outlining a balanced approach to mineral extraction that protects our lands, waters, and outdoor traditions.

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Why It Matters

Half of known critical mineral deposits in the U.S. are located in trout and salmon habitat. One in ten are in currently protected public lands, such as Wilderness and roadless areas.

Irresponsible mining can lead to toxic pollution, habitat destruction, and loss of unique outdoor recreation opportunities.

Smart policy and planning can mitigate, or even prevent, damage to habitat while securing a sustainable domestic mineral supply.

A Better Way Forward

The report highlights Tenets for Responsible Critical Mineral Development:

Mining in appropriate locations, avoiding sensitive fish and wildlife habitats
Strong habitat protections and community engagement
Investment in recycling, reprocessing, and alternatives to reduce new mining needs
Policy updates to ensure accountability and fair compensation for taxpayers
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Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

What are critical minerals? What makes them special?

The Department of Interior has defined critical minerals as:Amineral identified by the Secretary of the Interior to be a non-fuel mineral or mineral material essential to the economic and national security of the United States, the supply chain of which is vulnerable to disruption, and that serves an essential function in the manufacturing of a product, the absence of which would have significant consequences for our economy or our national security.

The U.S. Geologic Survey has developed an official list of mineral commodities meeting this definition. There are fifty (50) minerals on the list, including aluminum, lithium, cobalt, tungsten and nickel.

We are reliant on imports to meet our nation’s needs. In some cases, we rely on imports from adversarial nations who could cut off supply. This places the U.S. in a weak position.

Do these mineral commodities exist on US soil?

Yes, generally speaking. This does not mean a known mineral deposit is viable economically and/or socially.  In some cases, it is the lack of domestic ore processing, not the lack of domestic ore, which is the pinch point in supply.

How are critical minerals vital to national security?

Some critical minerals are vital to the aerospace and defense industries.

Critical minerals are key to climate change mitigation, which is a national security issue.

What hunting and fishing products use critical minerals?

Aluminum is used in a wide variety of products important to hunting and fishing, including fishing reels, boats, tree stands and RVs.

Tungsten and nickel are commonly used in fishing lures and flies.

Hunting arms, ammunition and archery components often contain critical minerals.

Is my favorite hunting or fishing resources at risk of mining development?

Use our handy GIS mapping tool to see where known mineral deposits exist in proximity to resources of value.  

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Take action

Join us in supporting responsible mining policies that balance conservation with resource needs.