Apache Stronghold’s Wensler Nossi urges protections for Oak Flat, cites HR 7957

Dr. Wensler Nossi Sr., founder and director of Apache Stronghold, told the hearing that Oak Flat is "historically significant, but spiritually indispensable to the Apache people," and described years of advocacy and legal challenges to protect the site from mining.

Nossi said a recent Forest Service land transfer to the Resolution Copper joint venture—formed by Rio Tinto and BHP—has intensified longstanding tribal concerns. "It will permanently destroy [the sacred site at] Oak Flat," he said, and framed his efforts as a question of religious freedom and the federal government’s duty to honor tribal nations. He said he introduced HR 7957 to protect remaining areas of the Tonto National Forest and preserve tribal access to places used for traditional practices.

Nossi urged the panel to consider stronger protections and described Apache Stronghold’s strategy of prayer gatherings, national advocacy and litigation to ensure tribal voices are heard. The transcript records no formal agency response to Nossi’s claim during the hearing.

The hearing continued with follow-up questions to witnesses about mine siting and recycling; members asked witnesses how "smart mining" and recycling could reduce conflicts with culturally sensitive sites and how stricter siting and permitting could avoid future clashes.