Navajo Nation Council votes to allow helium exploration on lands
, 2023-01-09 07:01:43,
Despite concerns about the threat of water contamination and the legacy of abandoned uranium mines, the Navajo Nation Council approved a plan to explore for helium in two communities, sending the measure to outgoing President Jonathan Nez.
The council met for a two-day special session to vote on a slate of remaining bills, including one that would allow Navajo Nation Oil and Gas Co. to enter into an operating lease agreement for helium exploration in the Tohachee Wash near Teec Nos Pos and in Beautiful Mountain and Porcupine Dome, near Sanostee.
“It is in the best interest of (Navajo Nation Oil and Gas) and the Navajo Nation for NNOGC to continue exploration and production of Navajo Nation oil and gas resources, including the Nation’s world class helium resources, by approving new oil and gas operating agreements for NNOGC, and by NNOGC’s investing in development of Navajo Nation resources pursuant to such agreement,” the legislation stated.
The 800-page measure was first introduced in 2021, and sponsored by former Speaker Seth Damon, who recently resigned as speaker and was re-elected for the next council. The legislation was also co-sponsored by Council Delegate Elmer Begay, who wasn’t re-elected. Both delegates are Navajo Oil and Gas shareholders.
The proposal has been met with many criticisms and questions from community members and advocates. Some have argued that resource extraction of any kind should not be considered because of Navajo Nation’s traumatic…
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