With regard to all minerals, it is the continuing policy of the federal government to foster and encourage private enterprise in (1) the development of economically stable mining and mineral industries; (2) the orderly and economical development of domestic mineral reserves; (3) research directed at the efficient use of mineral resources; and (4) the development of methods of disposal, control, and reclamation of mineral waste products and the reclamation of mineral land, so as to lessen the effect of mining on the environment.

It is the responsibility of the Secretary of the Interior to carry out this policy when exercising his responsibilities.