For generations to come
Will protect land, air, and water for generations to come.
Occurrences
who wants to make sure New Mexico’s water does not disappear because we did not act to save our planet and build a strong renewable energy economy.
We strongly oppose approval of this action and urge the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) before taking any further action on this proposal.
We plan to introduce legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from all forms of mineral entry.
We also request that the Forest Service suspend its review pending congressional action to protect the Chama watershed from mineral development.
We urge the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement for Gamma Resources Ltd.'s proposed Mesa Arc Project, including a draft EIS with a public comment period; to conduct robust, meaningful government-to-government consultation with all affected tribal nations before any permit decision; to require comprehensive baseline water quality testing throughout the affected watershed before any surface disturbance is authorized; and to suspend further permitting action pending the outcome of congressional consideration of legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from mineral entry.
we are fighting to ensure it is protected for generations to come
Last April, the N.M. Delegation reintroduced legislation to protect Chaco Canyon and the greater sacred landscape surrounding the Chaco Culture National Historical Park. The legislation was led by Leger Fernández in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senator Luján in the U.S. Senate.
Evidence
The delegation said the Trump administration’s actions would eliminate protections for the Greater Chaco Region and that they were fighting to keep Chaco protected for generations to come. The statement also notes a rushed seven-day comment period and a 90-day environmental assessment timeline.
The lawmakers opposed uranium drilling in Carson National Forest and urged the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement and suspend review pending congressional action to protect the Chama watershed.
Assessments
The evidence shows Leger Fernandez actively worked in office to protect land and water through opposition to rollback of Greater Chaco protections and pressure for environmental review and suspension of uranium drilling review near the Chama watershed. These are concrete federal advocacy and oversight actions aligned with the promise, but the record provided does not show a completed durable protection of land, air, and water. Because the outcome remains advocacy rather than fulfilled protection, this merits partial credit in the same term, with an effort badge for serious attempts.