U.S. Senators Seek to Extend Earth MRI Mapping Program Through 2031 to Support Critical Minerals Exploration

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and John Hickenlooper of Colorado have introduced the Earth MRI Reauthorization Act, which would extend funding for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) through 2031.

Earth MRI combines airborne geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, geochemical sampling and advanced data analytics to improve understanding of critical minerals, geothermal resources and subsurface geology. The program provides publicly available geological data that help reduce exploration risk and development costs for mining companies. According to U.S. officials, mineral exploration spending in Alaska has more than doubled since the initiative began. The proposed legislation would maintain support for critical minerals exploration while expanding the program to include natural hydrogen resources and enhanced geological hazard assessments, further strengthening the foundation for future domestic critical mineral supply chains.