www.nmwild.org

OJITO he story of Ojito is a long and circu- T itous one. Today the area is on the brink of becoming the first newly desig- nated area in in eighteen years. The legislation that will accomplish this feat results from bipar- tisanship cooperation, locally-endorsed conservation, the efforts of numerous environmental organizations, and native groups like the of Zia who value the Ojito area’s wildlife, rangelands, and religious sites. If this bill succeeds, it will be the result of years of effort, scores of dedicated advocates, and the of local organizing that put all of the stake- holders at the table from the beginning. From Wildlands to WILDERNESS

The Ojito recently passed by the Senate and is waiting to be scheduled for a vote in the House of Representatives. From there it will move on to the President’s desk for his signa- ture. If all goes well, the Act could be law as early as October of this year. But how did we get here? The effort to protect Ojito emphasizes the importance of collaborative teamwork to very different people for a common and posi- tive goal. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Pat Lyons: looked for potential wilderness areas a closer look at New Mexico’s among their land holdings in the state of New Mexico. Ojito was an attractive Land Commissioner piece of land from the beginning due to its unscarred and diverse plant

Purchase this beautiful Michelle Chrisman painting and benefit NMWA—see back cover. see WILDLANDS, pg. 12 s t e p h e n c a p r a • e x e c u t i v e d i r e c t o r Notes from the Executive Director It has been a long wait- 18 years to be exact. But we are perhaps weeks away from making Ojito into New Mexico’s newest wilderness area. This beautiful spot (about an hour northwest of Albuquerque,) will soon become part of the great wilderness tradition, born in New Mexico, that has been a symbol of the importance of land and wildlife to our spirit and sanity. Despite the tough political climate for envi- ronmental issues, this bill was produced in a strong bi-partisan manner and will hopefully open the door to more wilderness in the coming years! Spe- cial thanks need to go to Tribal Administrator Peter Representative Heather Wilson recently toured the Pino and the people of Zia Pueblo, Dave Mielke, Mely- Valle Vidal for a day of hiking. The event was terrific for ssa Watson, Martin Heinrich, Arturo Sandoval and the all involved, including her children, Joshua and Caitlin, staff’s of our congressional delegation who have put and she clearly enjoyed her time hiking near McCrys- countless hours into making this bill a reality. tal Creek. Wilson hiked for about 2 hours taking in the vistas, asking about wildlife and plants and getting a In the past month, Senator Bingaman made a very better understanding of what oil and gas development positive move in the effort to protect Otero Mesa by would look like in this beautiful and wildlife-filled land- asking the Geological Survey to conduct scape. It seemed clear that the Congresswoman was a study of the aquifer underneath the mesa. Such a impressed with what she saw and her children were study will likely show a vast amount of fresh water that animated as they crossed streams, collected washed is vulnerable to contamination from oil and gas devel- out elk jaws in an open meadow, and took photos of opment. A USGS study is as conclusive as it comes the many blooming wild flowers. It was indeed a very and will hopefully bolster our efforts to keep this wild good day. grassland protected. It’s a positive first step and we should all thank the Senator for his efforts. After enjoying a great time with Congresswoman Wilson, we returned to Valle Vidal the next weekend to greet Governor Richardson who made an important announcement concerning Valle Vidal. The Governor announced that the state was proposing designating the waters of the Valle Vidal “Outstanding National Resource Waters” to protect the watershed and water 4 White Mountain Wilderness quality of the area. It would not stop development 5 Holding on to Wildness but would create serious barriers to coalbed methane 6 Offroad Vehicle Update development. The Governor spoke strongly of the 7 Otero Mesa Update need to protect Valle Vidal. Here in New Mexico we are fortunate to have such a strong and determined 8 The Roadless Debacle conservationist as our Governor; a politician willing to 9 Update: the Valle Vidal take tough stands on the environment, demand jus- 10 Upcoming Events tice for wildlife and common sense when it comes to 11 NEPA Puts People Before Polluters energy development. Thank you once again Governor 14 NMWA Sponsors Richardson. 16 Land Commissioner Pat Lyons Though I’d to continue on with the good news, 18 Hike! the truth is that our public lands are under attack. In 19 People in Wilderness this issue we report on several of the challenges we face and how they could impact our wild landscapes 20 Bringing Back the Jaguar forever. We must continue to hold the line against the 20 NMWA Helping Schools Understand “Oil and Gas Revolution” and protect what is left of our new mexico 21 Letters to NMWA wildest public lands. Our voice remains our power! We 22 Get Involved proudly continue to work for wilderness everyday and we thank all of our 4,200 members for their support 23 Government Contacts, Membership Form and for working with us to protect New Mexico’s wild- WILD! 24 NMWA Products life and wildest public lands. SPRING 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 3 New Energy Bill Offers a Great Mix of Corporate Welfare and Renewable Starvation by Stephen Capra American cars more fuel effi- Main Office 505/843-8696 • fax 505/843-8697 cient in this bill or give real [email protected] • www.nmwild.org years of incentives for conservation. P.O. Box 25464 After the Bush There was lots of talk about Albuquerque, NM 87125 Administration pushing for a a future hydrogen economy, Las Cruces Field Office 275 N. Downtown Mall new energy bill, they were but what was ignored was Las Cruces, NM 88001 able to successfully pull it that current technology 505/527-9962 off just before the August allows for plug-in versions of Mission Statement Congressional recess. What hybrid cars (like the Toyota Prius) that, once modified, The New Mexico Wilderness Alliance is many did not expect was dedicated to the protection, restoration, that our entire New Mexico can achieve up to 250 miles and continued enjoyment of New Mexico’s Congressional Delegation per gallon. But Congress did wildlands and Wilderness areas. see wisdom in putting about would support the multi-bil- NMWA Staff lion dollar giveaway to the 90% of alternative energy Las Cruces Office GOP’s staunchest corporate spending into nuclear, rather Jeff Steinborn, Southern NM Director supporters. The bill gives bil- than wind or solar power, Alberto Zavala, Grassroots Organizer even though today wind Albuquerque Office lions to some of our nation’s Tisha Broska, Membership Coordinator wealthiest corporations - the energy comes cheaper than Stephen Capra, Executive Director oil and gas industry. These nuclear and is also free of Tripp Killin, Associate Director that messy storage and ter- Nathan Newcomer, Grassroots Organizer companies are currently Roxanne Pacheco, Finance Manager enjoying record profits. In rorist problem. Michael Scialdone, Director of Wilderness fact, they are having trouble Protection Democrats deserve as Trisha London, Membership & Grassroots spending all their money. much scorn as Republicans Assistant The numbers for the second when it comes to the energy Board of Directors quarter this year show bill. While they offered some Exxon-Mobil enjoying a 32% Wes Leonard, El Paso, TX (Chair) solid amendments (that Bob Howard, Santa Fe, NM (V.Chair) increase in earnings over this were mostly voted down), Tom Mouck, Albuquerque, NM (Treasurer) time last year. That translates Kathy Love, Albuquerque, NM (Secretary) their strategy seemed more Pam Eaton, Denver, CO into $7.6 billion dollars. BP geared at not being viewed Dave Foreman, Albuquerque, NM enjoyed a 38% increase, Todd Hotchkiss, Albuquerque, NM as obstructionists and taking Greg Kroll, El Rito, NM while ConocoPhillips enjoyed a slice of the pie, rather than Carlos Provencio, Bayard, NM a whopping 56% increase in Melissa Savage, Santa Fe, NM stopping a bad bill. Todd Schulke, Silver City, NM profits. But for consum- William Stone, Albuquerque, NM ers the price at the pump By promoting more drilling, we accept a Bob Tafanelli, Las Cruces, NM For some time now the Bush Adminis- Rick Wiedenmann, Carlsbad, NM has risen 36% in the last 12 months. net loss of species, and thus diversity. tration has said that we can have a clean Newsletter Staff By comparison, college tuition has risen Our connection to the land is increasingly environment and develop our domestic more industrial rather than respectful. Tisha Broska, Managing Editor 11% and health care 41% over the past oil and gas reserves. Since the passing of Joe Adair, Design Editor three years respectively. It’s not just gas at That we are therefore experiencing a tre- the energy bill, the rhetoric has changed. James Broska, Contributing Editor mendous outpouring of violence should the pump; energy prices are affecting the Now they are telling us “people in the The Artists surprise no one. produce we buy in stores, the cost of an must be willing to sacri- Cover painting by M. Chrisman, P2 photo by E. airline ticket, shipping a package, and the Knell, P4 photos by M. Heinrich, P5 and P6 artwork The Bush Energy bill ignores the real- fice, for the good of all Americans.” price we pay to heat and cool our homes. by E. Cantor, P7 photo by BLM employee, P9 ity that our country remains hopelessly photos by J. Adair, P12-P13 photos by M. Heinrich, This is having a dramatic impact on those So what can we do? It seems clear in P15 photos by T. Broska and M. Heinrich, P. 18 addicted to oil and gas and thus vulner- living on a fixed income. Currently PNM is the coming years we will have to work artwork by E. Cantor, P19 photos by T. Broska, P20 able to terrorists and instability in the photo by N. Small, P21 cartoon by M. Keefe, Denver anticipating a 25% increase in this coming on a local and state level to promote Middle-East and around the world. In Post, P22 photo by T. Broska. winter’s energy bills. a sane energy future. Our delegation America today we produce less energy, should clearly hear from people about As the argument goes, the bill could despite drilling more, because our oil the need for 21st century energy solu- What is Wilderness? and gas reserves continue to diminish. have been far worse given the current tions. But perhaps more important is THE WILDERNESS ACT OF 1964 estab- political climate. Perhaps a more logi- Energy bill incentives for the oil and gas the need for those in Washington to get lished the National Wilderness cal strategy would have been to delay industry will clearly lead to more drilling more connected to the land. We need Preservation System to preserve voting on any bill this year. By 2006, with on our wildest public lands, including them to understand the importance of the last remaining wildlands in mid-term elections looming, there would upping the ante in Otero Mesa and Valle wild grasslands and wolves. We need America. The Wilderness Act, as have been less incentive to give away our Vidal. Yet, gas prices will likely remain sky federal policy, secures “an endur- them to be bold when it comes to new ing resource of wilderness” for future to the lobbying giants of Big Oil high, allowing industry more record prof- energy solutions today and be willing to its. So far Congress seems content to not the people. Wilderness is defined and craft a bill designed to make America hike, raft and smell the crisp air of the Gila as an area that has primarily been more energy independent and promote intervene and investigate this clear abuse after a summer storm. We need them to affected by the forces of nature conservation. Shamefully, the bill was of power. That’s because, since 1990, the feel it in their soul. Call it a miracle. I call it with the imprint of humans passed and the winner was not our wild- energy sector has contributed more than therapy- for the planet and us. substantially unnoticeable. It est public lands, but corporate greed and $183 million dollars to presidential and is an area that offers outstand- pork barrel politics. The Bioneers recently congressional campaigns (according to The next big debate will be over the ing opportunity for solitude or a primitive or unconfined type of had a report on how societies become the Center for Responsive Politics), with beloved Arctic Refuge. There will be a three-quarters of the money going to recreation, and an area that con- more violent and more wasteful as the major rally in Washington, D.C. on Septem- tains ecological, geological, or biological diversity within them begins to Republicans. In the 2004 election, Presi- ber 20th in support of protecting America’s other features of scientific, educa- disappear. Losing the connection to land dent Bush received $2.6 million from crown jewel, (check our web site for more tional, scenic, or historical value. and place has a far more powerful impact the oil, gas, coal and nuclear industries information). The question remains: Who than many would assume. This energy compared with John Kerry who received will demand justice for our wildest public bill reflects our country’s current lack of $300,000. lands and have the courage to stand up to Please visit us at connection to the land and to the diver- the oil and gas industry? We will. Will you? Congress also saw no reason to make sity of species that make our lives so full. nmWILD.org New Mexico WILD! Page 3 d i s c o v e r ew White Mountain Wilderness: N Mexico Alpine Oasis in Southern NM

to the high point of the hike at Ice canyon more than 3000 feet deep at Point (11,300 feet). On the second places. day, hikers turn north along the crest and travel about 8 miles to The best times to visit the White Spring Cabin to camp at a scenic Mountain Wilderness are the late overlook. The last day involves a six spring and early fall, although snow mile trek to Forest Road 108 and an can linger in the higher elevations optional climb of Nogal Peak (9900 well into June. While water is less feet). Water is available along the available in the fall, the colors are route at various points and at both among the best in New Mexico, camping spots. especially along the high ridge run- ning from Monjeau Lookout to Ice Hiking access on the west side is Point. Because of its high elevation limited to the Three Rivers Camp- and exposed meadows, electri- ground Trailhead. Here, the Three cal storms can pose a real danger Rivers Trail climbs about 3600 feet during the monsoon season. Hiking over 5.6 miles to reach the crest and use is moderate, except during holi- its vast network of trails. Although day weekends. During the summer, By Wesley Leonard meadows and grassy oak savannas there are a number of other, mainly horse parties are common, but most filled with wildflowers make spring non-maintained trails that ascend to are out only for day rides. There are The White Mountain Wilderness hiking especially enjoyable. is 48,266 scenic acres located in the crest from the west, access is many more day hikers than back- the northern Sacramento Moun- The primary motorized access blocked by private property. This is packers, and during the week, back- tains, immediately north of the points to the Wilderness are the not the case on the east side, how- packers seemingly have the wilder- Mescalero Indian Reservation in the Three Rivers Campground on the ever, where a wide array of trails and ness to themselves. Unless you are . With eleva- west side and the Argentina Canyon trailheads are available for hikers. , the area should be avoided tions ranging up to nearly 12,000- and South Fork Campgrounds on the These trails provide opportunities for during elk and deer seasons when feet, it presents a stark contrast to east side. The turn off for the Three a number of loop hikes of varying outfitters set up large camps and the nearby White Sands National Rivers Campground is about half length and difficulty. At the Argentina hunting pressure is high. Monument and the Little Black Peak/ way between Alamogordo and Car- Canyon Trailhead, for example, four The White Mountain Wilderness Carrizozo Lava Flow WSAs almost rizozo on US Highway 54. From the trails (Argentina, Aspen, Big Bonito was one of the eight New Mexico 8000 feet below, in the Tularosa turnoff, follow Forest Road 579 for and Little Bonito) can be accessed areas that were established with Basin. This elevation differential about 15 miles to the campground. from a single point, and a fifth trail, the passage of the original Wilder- is the greatest in all New Mexico To reach the Argentina Canyon and Turkey Canyon, is less than a half- ness Act of 1964. It was enlarged and creates a dramatic profile vis- South Fork Campgrounds, take mile down FR 107. All these trails ible for miles throughout southeast NM Highway 37 north of Ruidoso New Mexico and West Texas. This to the signs for Bonito Lake. From is especially true in the winter when here, follow Forest Road 107 to just the higher elevations are blanketed beyond Bonito Lake where the road with up to six feet of snow. From splits with one fork going left to the the crest of the White Mountains, it is South Fork Campground and the possible to view more than 20 other other going right for 3 more miles to mountain ranges, including the San- the Argentina Canyon Campground. dias to the north, the Black Range to Access to the southern part of the the west, the Capitans to the east, Wilderness is via the road going to and mountains in Texas and Mexico the Ski Ski Area (NM 532) to the south. This hiker-friendly Wil- and a dirt road going to the Mon- derness is easily accessed and con- jeau Lookout (FR 117). All roads are tains more than 50 miles of gener- passable by regular passenger cars ally well-maintained trails providing when they are dry. outstanding hiking and backpacking opportunities. While there are many special things about the White Moun- The White Mountain Wilderness tain Wilderness, its extensive trail runs roughly north-south for 12.5 system is what makes it one of the follow small streams for most of to its present size with additions miles and is 4 to 12 miles wide most wonderful places to visit in their lengths and all intersect with included in the 1980 New Mexico with elevations ranging from 6000 New Mexico. The hike along the the Crest Trail, providing opportuni- Wilderness Act. Areas near the Wil- feet to 11, 580 feet. Sierra Blanca Crest Trail, which runs 21 miles ties for loop hikes tailored to almost derness around Ruidoso, Capitan Peak, sacred to the Mescalero- from Monjeau Lookout in the south anyone’s hiking ability. Other major and Nogal are being subdivided and Apache, rises to 12,003 feet and is to just past Nogal Peak in the north, trails on the east side include the developed at an astonishing rate. We in their Reservation, about one-mile is considered by many to be among South Fork and Blue Front, both owe much to the conservation pio- south of the Wilderness. The Wilder- the most scenic in the state. Hiking of which can be accessed from the neers who had the foresight to work ness contains a number of small to the Crest Trail as a 3-day backpack South Fork Campground. Both of for the protection of this outstand- medium streams that make up the requires a moderate effort that can these trails also connect with the ing part of New Mexico’s natural headwaters of the Rio Bonito, con- be accomplished by most anyone Crest Trail, again providing great heritage, and you can be sure that verging just outside the Wilderness who is in reasonably good condi- opportunities for loop hikes. The the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance boundary at Bonito Lake, a favorite tion. Starting at the Monjeau Look- stream in the South Fork is the will work for its continued protection fishing spot for locals. Large alpine out, the first day takes hikers 7 miles largest in the wilderness and is in a and expansion.

Page 4 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 5 Holding on to Wildness

By Tisha Broska and Trisha London wild places. She says “In the open internal dialogue in the mind, and we have the cure in Wilderness. space of democracy, beauty is not to really begin observing and listen- As Dave Foreman put it, these optional, but essential to our sur- ing to the ever-changing environ- “Underlying the beauty of the spec- are bleak times in the conservation vival as a species. And technology ment around us. The trip ended too tacle there is meaning and significance. movement. We are losing potential is not rendered at the expense of soon, but we returned relaxed with It is the elusiveness of the meaning that Wilderness. Large roadless areas life, but developed out of a rever- a deeper awareness and apprecia- haunts us and sends us again and again in our National Forests are disap- ence for life.” 1 She reminds us tion of wild nature’s importance to into the natural world where the key pearing and many more to the riddle is hidden.” - of our wild landscapes Rachel Carson are threatened by oil and gas development. Many Even in 1930, Bob of the liberties that we Marshall (founder of have grown accustomed the Wilderness Society) to may be lost in our life- felt the pressures of our time. In the last issue of increasingly modern way New Mexico Wild!, Dave of life and the impacts it Foreman wrote about would have on civiliza- “Nature’s Crisis” and pro- tion. He wrote: voked us to “stand tall “In a civilization which for our values and to not requires most lives to be flinch in the good fight.” passed amid inordinate dis- Reverence for nature sonance, pressure and intru- is one value that most sion, the chance of retiring of us treasure. But have now and then to the qui- we forgotten what is etude and privacy of sylvan natural? Most of us have haunts becomes for some been living apart from people a psychic necessity. nature for so long now, It is only the possibility of that we have become convalescing in the wilder- disconnected from our ness which saves them from natural world. We grasp being destroyed by the terri- to connect with nature. ble neural tension of modern existence.” 4 Getting outside on the that our power lies within the land, the human spirit. These rich experi- weekends, getting into our gardens the wildlife, the rivers, the moun- ences can fill an empty space in life Bob Marshall placed his hope in or escaping to the wild a few short tains, the deserts. When we forget, that nothing else can satisfy. the spirited people who would fight weeks out of the year. When we we become disconnected, losing for the freedom of the wilderness. do, we find that connection, the our center point and the stillness A recent article in Orion Maga- We must keep this vision alive. inspiration and the wherewithal to that allows us to listen to life on a zine discusses several studies that When extractive industry degrades stand tall for our values. deeper level. 2 have found links between symp- the air we breathe, the water we toms of ADHD (Attention Deficit drink, the land we live upon, it “Wildness reminds us what it means These inspirational words bring Hyperactivity Disorder) in adults to be human, what we are connected impacts much more than our qual- one back to a reality we may not and children and the lack of expo- ity of life. When splendid wild habi- to rather than what we are separate experience every day, but one that sure to the natural environment. from.” -Terry Tempest Williams tats are altered and destroyed it we strive for. One cannot put a One theory as to why this may robs us of the genuine experience We all need to work to remember price on the value of wildness. be true is that engagement with of the living world and its elegant the wild, to not get consumed in It is at the core of our existence. We nature has a powerful influence on relationships that lend meaning to the rigors of daily life, and our high- need wildness for quality of life. In brain function related to attention. our lives. speed world. If we forget, or lose this country, Wilderness is the last For children, the nature experi- touch with our connection to the of wildness. ence engages a child in a “natural” way, consistent with how humans wild, how can we stand tall to fight Some of us recently returned 1. The Open Space of Democracy, published the good fight? How can we teach have evolved. Clearly, more stud- from a 10-day river trip with a ies are needed to determine if a by The Orion Society in September, 2004 our children about the importance fascinating combination of ripar- of this value? greener environment can play a 2. (The Progressive, February 2005 Inter- ian, slickrock canyon and desert role in curing ADHD and to look environments. The constant con- view of Terry Tempest Williams by David Terry Tempest Williams speaks at whether ADHD is a symptom of Kupfer.) about an “open space of democ- tact with the living earth, river, a lack of exposure to nature. But, racy” where the health of the envi- sandstone canyons, plants, crea- isn’t it possible that society’s disen- 3. (Orion, July/August, 2005 Nature Defi- ronment is seen as the wealth of tures, the elements, and the open gagement from nature has dimin- cit by Richard Louv) our communities. That our char- spaces became a deeply personal ished the senses and that our fast acter has been shaped by the and regenerative experience. It was pace lives have caused a condition 4. The Problem of Wilderness by Bob Mar- diversity of America’s landscapes long enough to reset the “internal of nature-deficit disorder? 3 If so, shall, published in Science Journal is precisely what will protect those clock”, to slow down the constant

Page 4 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 5 Service Projects Protect and Restore Wild Lands

access to a road (closed long ago) Creek. The main project was to put that leads to the Valle Vidal. up elk-proof exclosures around wil- lows and alders to give the vegeta- That evening after we had fin- tion a chance to establish itself. This, ished dinner, those that stayed to in turn, would help the creek erode camp until Sunday were enjoying less and meander more, improving the sunset and talking. The rumble habitat for the Rio Grande Cutthroat of ATVs in the distance became Trout. Downstream exclosures constant and wouldn’t fade. A vol- (done years before) were full of unteer popped out to see what was vegetation. We also pounded in up and saw 2 ATVs tearing it up posts to help stabilize the stream in the meadow, going through the bank. That evening, 35 volunteers poles we had just installed where were treated to a potluck cookout. the barb wire wasn’t up yet. They AWF providing beef & veggie burg- had come by earlier to make a ers for all, while we sampled the statement about our project. Seeing delicious side dishes and desserts us come in to view, they immedi- that everyone brought. ately left. One of the people who stayed to camp with us is a Forest UPDATE: No violation of our work Service employee, whose job is to has been noted in follow-up moni- enforce ATV regulations in the Red toring in San Lorenzo Canyon. In River area. He followed their dust April, over 30 volunteers worked to back to their camp and asked why block illegal ATV routes in the area. they were in the meadow. One of This hard work has clearly paid off, the riders stated ‘well, you hadn’t protecting the area’s archeological, put up the fence yet.’ They received historical, and scenic values. $100 tickets for driving off forest roads… BUSTED! Volunteer projects are a fun and rewarding way to get involved in public VALLE VIDAL lands protection. See below for a list of Over the July 16th weekend, we projects we will be working on through joined with Albuquerque Wildlife October. For more information, con- Federation (AWF) to assist in their tact Michael Scialdone at 843-8696 ongoing restoration of Comanche or [email protected]. 2005 Volunteer Projects Volunteer Projects give you an opportunity to do some- by Michael Scialdone feet of guardrail. The end result thing for the Land of Enchantment. Whether digging post- NMWA continues to have great was a circular barrier that serves holes for barriers to stop ATV abuse, performing trail main- success with our service projects. as trailhead parking for horses and tenance and clean-up, or helping with the logistics of set-up We have completed five projects hikers. So far, there have been no and food, NMWA Volunteer Projects offer something for all this year and have one more to go. reported violations. Further up the ages and abilities. Please RSVP so we can plan for food, car- trail, we rebuilt a bridge taken out pooling, and other logistics. Call us for directions and further by spring floods. project information . During the June 4th weekend, over 20 volunteers participated RED RIVER WATERSHED Contact: Michael Scialdone at 843-8696, [email protected] in National Trail’s Day by closing Two weeks later we were at Mid- a trail used by ATVs to illegally night Meadows, near the head- October 1st weekend, 2005 Columbine-Hondo WSA Preventing ATV access on a single-track trail. We need around access the Pecos Wilderness. Those waters of the Red River to team 15 people. that camped on Friday night were up with Amigos Bravos who is Distance: about 3 1⁄2 hours north of ABQ treated to cold, gusting winds that working on restoring the Red River howled through the night. Hot Watershed. Over 20 volunteers strung 1/10 mile of barbed wire coffee and tea rejuvenated us and Purchase or refinance your home at and set poles for another 2/3 mile. got us ready for a long day. It was Wells Fargo & mention We joked that as wilderness advo- not easy work as large post holes New Mexico Wilderness Alliance: had to be dug 3 feet into an old cates we often thought of taking we’ll receive a $300 donation! roadbed. Large, buried boulders fences down, but never thought Contact Craig Chapman made this a particular challenge. we would put them up. But here, Into these holes we placed 10” x the fencing was to keep ATVs from 505-281-2403 10” posts and attached over 100- tearing up a beautiful, but fragile, alpine meadow and to prevent Thanks Wells Fargo!

Page 6 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 7 Otero Mesa Update

For the last 4 years, We have studied the we have been fighting numbers, researched to protect the beautiful the facts and found that grasslands of Otero Mesa using current figures from oil and gas devel - adopted in the state and opment. The last sev - regional water plans for eral months have been New Mexico, as well exciting to say the least. as by simply looking First and foremost, in at average household mid-August two Bureau water use in Albuquer - of Land Management que, there is enough (BLM) Range Manage - fresh water to easily ment Specialists sighted supply 1 million people two aplomado falcons for over 100 years. on Otero Mesa. The endangered aplomados As New Mexicans, were seen on an area we know that nothing of Otero Mesa slated is more precious to us for oil and gas drilling. than our water, let alone These sightings should 15 million acre feet require a new round of worth. Certainly folks in consultation between Alamogordo and Otero the Fish and Wildlife County, who are used Service and the BLM to to water rationing and reconsider whether fal - are exploring desaliniza - cons and their Chihua - tion opportunities, can huan desert grassland appreciate how impor - habitat will be protected tant this water resource from the impacts of oil is, especially considering and gas drilling, related it is located literally in road-building, and new their back yards—South- power lines. But already ern Otero County. But, the BLM is saying their despite the minimal plan is solid and the oil and gas potential in Otero Mesa, federal land need for such talk is very federal government to set in motion gaman requested an extensive U.S. limited. managers are willing to risk polluting steps that will irretrievably lead to Geological Survey study of this sen- a potentially valuable water resource The falcon sightings come just the permanent damage of Otero sitive aquifer. and fragmenting a rare grassland in Mesa. We will do all we can to stop after the BLM pushed forward with The Tularosa Basin 40-Year Water search of it. oil and gas development on Otero the feds from harming Otero Mesa while our lawsuit battle goes on.” Plan has shown that under the As Senator Bingaman stated in Mesa. In late July, the BLM leased Otero Mesa lies New Mexico’s larg- 1,600 acres on Otero Mesa to the his request to the U.S. Geological The confusing part is that the State est untapped aquifer, known as the Survey to conduct a study of the Harvey E. Yates Company. BLM is BLM office, the agency that is charge Salt Basin Aquifer. It is a fresh water permitting flare tests of one existing Otero Mesa aquifer: “In an arid state of these lands and who has studied aquifer containing at least 15 mil- like New Mexico, we simply well and expansion of the gathering this area extensively, estimates that lion acre-feet of potable water and system (the oil and gas transporta - cannot take chances there is very little potential for natu- as much as 30 million acre-feet with a water supply tion system that includes significant ral gas in Otero Mesa. This under- of recoverable water. It is amounts of equipment) for existing as valuable as the reported fact set the stage for the July also a sensitive shallow Salt Aquifer.” wells without any additional envi - oil and gas lease sale that only drew water aquifer with a ronmental analysis. The agency also one oil company bid, for $2 an acre. large recharge area recently announced plans to release One bidder at $2 an acre - does it stretching to the previously suspended leases on the sound like the oil companies believe Sacramento Mesa, thereby allowing them to be there is much oil or gas there? Mountains. drilled as well. Now the potential water resources Rampant Governor Bill Richardson and in the Otero Mesa are getting some Attorney General Patricia Madrid attention. The water under Otero Habitat filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Mesa has been subject to an ongo- Bureau of Land Management’s deci - ing private study that suggests Destruction sion to allow oil and gas leasing and that there may be more exploration on 95% of Otero Mesa water than previously in southern New Mexico. Madrid estimated. In mid- Now Available said, “We cannot permit oil and gas July U.S. Sena- for $2 an Acre! leasing to go forward and allow the tor Jeff Bin-

Page 6 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 7 The Roadless Debacle

by Stephen Capra forests puts in place a “pay-to-pro- of Agriculture Mark Rey. Despite tantly, serve as a vital source of tect” system. Governors who want these hurdles, Gov. Richardson has drinking water. Over the next several weeks, mil- just the chance of recovering previ- pledged to petition for the protec- lions of Americans will take advan- ously guaranteed forest protections tion of all of New Mexico’s roadless While consisting of just under tage of the wonders found in our must participate in a costly and areas. He should be commended a third of the nation’s total land national parks and forests. From burdensome petition process. And for doing so. area, our national forests supply an a weekend hike to a family fishing even if governors decide to play in astounding two-thirds of total U.S. getaway, there’s something magi- the administration’s game of forest As many here in New Mexico water runoff. In fact, the U.S. Envi- cal about taking time out to ronmental Protection Agency, enjoy the wonders of the land estimates that over 60 million and nature. And here in New Americans across the nation Mexico, as anyone who has vis- rely on national forests for their ited the drinking water. Roadless areas or the will attest provide clean drinking water for to, we are blessed with an thousands of U.S. communities abundance of natural treasures by purifying the water, slowing to see and experience. runoff, and reducing flooding and erosion — a priceless ser- Unfortunately, if some get vice that, if preserved, will con- their way, many of New Mexi- tinue to grow exponentially in co’s most precious natural trea- years and decades ahead. sures, its roadless forests, might not be around for future gener- When the Bush administra- ations of Americans to enjoy. tion announced its initial plans The good news, however, is in early 2001 to end protections that a group of leaders around for our roadless areas, con- the nation, including our own cerned citizens from around the governor, are working hard to nation submitted over 4 mil- stop this from happening. The lion comments suggesting the New Mexico Wilderness Alli- administration think again. This ance will continue to push for past spring, Gov. Richardson, preservation of our roadless along with 11 of his colleagues, forests. We are performing an sent letters to the administra- on-the-ground inventory of tion urging it to change course New Mexico’s national forests on its forest policy. While the and have already found that administration chose to ignore some roadless tracts in the these requests and the wishes Carson National Forest—that of millions of Americans, the should have been protected— good news is that someone in have already been leased for oil Washington was listening — and gas development. over 140 members of the U.S. House of Representatives. This past May, the Bush administration repealed the On July 28, a bipartisan coali- Roadless Area Conserva- tion in the U.S. House of Repre- tion Rule — opening the last sentatives introduced legislation unspoiled lands in our national to bring federal safeguards back forests to road building, log- for our national forests. Let’s ging, , and drilling. just hope that when Congress Pushed through by Washington comes back from its summer lobbyists for these extractive vacation it takes immediate industries, the administration’s steps to ensure that our for- new roadless policy would strip roulette, no protections are certain. know, our national forests serve ests are around for genera- protection for over 1.6 million acres Instead, all roadless petitions first as a precious economic engine for tions. Georgia O’Keefe’s paintings of pristine national forests here in need approval from an advisory tourism and outdoor recreation. shouldn’t be the only place where New Mexico — roughly 17% of panel appointed by the Secretary of And America’s roadless areas are Americans can experience the all the national forest lands in the Agriculture. If the requests clear that the backbone of our national for- natural wonders and treasures state. hurdle, they still have to receive the ests and wilderness. Roadless that have so rightfully earned New blessing of the Forest Service, areas provide homes to over 220 Mexico’s reputation as the “Land of Further, the administration’s new Enchantment.” approach to managing our national including former timber industry endangered or threatened wildlife lobbyist and current Undersecretary species and, perhaps most impor-

Page 8 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 9 Update: The Valle Vidal

by Jim O’Donnell & Jeremy Vesbach Service to lease the eastern 40,000 acres of the Valle for coal- The Valle Vidal is a 100,000 acre bed methane (CBM) develop- gem smack in the heart of the ment. This last summer (2004), Sangre de Cristo Mountains north- the Forest Service released its west of Cimarron, New Mexico. It Reasonable Foreseeable Devel- has been called a ‘reservoir of wild- opment Scenario (RFDS). The life’ and justly so. The Valle hosts scenario predicted only enough the largest elk herd in the state, natural gas to supply the nation sixty other species of mammals with about 11 hours of gas. including black bear, turkey, and bison, nearly 200 species of Coalbed methane develop- birds and 33 kinds of reptiles and ment would be catastrophic for amphibians. Its verdant valleys are the Valle Vidal. At a minimum, ringed by one of the largest stands hundreds of wells and a spi- of Bristlecone Pine in the nation. derweb of roads and pipelines Pure strains of the Rio Grande cut- would carve up this natural jewel throat trout can be found in many as if it were slated for subdivi- of the waterways. sion. New Mexico would see the calving grounds of the state’s The Valle Vidal is also culturally largest herd of elk disrupted, treasured lifeblood for local recre- other wildlife populations dis- ation-based economies. Each year placed, habitat fragmented, spend their money here and I get for drilling to commence if New it hosts 50,000 PEOPLE who come waterways poisoned and the loss just compliment after compliment Mexicans don’t make their voices for horseback riding, world class of a vital portion of the economies on the Valle Vidal. It’s incredible heard. The Forest Service projects fly fishing, backpacking, mountain of north-central New Mexico. Few, what that little area does for our completing the plan by September biking, and some of the top elk if any, jobs would be created by this business. But people aren’t going 2006 at which point the leasing hunting in the nation. More than development and income to local to come here to see a drilling field,” process may begin. 3,000 Boy Scouts come to the Valle communities would be less than said Henry Gonzales, owner of an Vidal each year for high adventure that already had through sustain- auto repair shop in Cimarron, H&J The Coalition for the Valle Vidal training. In total, the Valle contrib- able recreational use. Tires. Gonzales has lived in the area is a broad-based, non-partisan utes $3-5 million/year to local econ- for all of his 42 years, except for gathering of over 200 Northern omies supporting dozens of jobs Surrounding Communities a stint serving our country in the New Mexico local governments, and local industries. Are Outraged armed forces. businesses, organizations and indi- viduals that have come together to The Valle Vidal Defines “Thousands of people come to Don Francisco Trujillo II, Taos ensure permanent protection for The Land of Enchantment the Valle Vidal from thousands of miles away to show their children County Commissioner and Chair- the Valle Vidal. There is too much But the Valle Vidal is in danger what America used to be. I love it. man of the Intergovernmental to lose by industrializing one of our of industrialization. In 2002, El Paso They come to our little town and Council of the Enchanted Circle treasured wildlands for 11 hours of corporation petitioned the Forest in northern New Mexico agrees, natural gas. insisting that Taos does not have anything to gain and has Jim O’Donnell, a member of the everything to lose from the drill- Coalition says, “Washington D.C. ing. “I come from a long stand- needs to understand that the Valle ing, time honored family whose Vidal provides jobs. If the Valle love for the land runs deep in Vidal is industrialized those jobs our roots and flows through will be lost, leaving us with busted our veins. Our protected public economies and a ruined land- lands are our lifeline to a sus- scape.” tainable future. More and more The full diversity of people in we are seeing that communities New Mexico are coming together that protect their public lands are and standing up for the Valle Vidal, benefiting economically.” but we face a difficult challenge: The Forest Service is in special interests want us to sacrifice the process of preparing an our values and our long-term econ- amendment to its Forest Plan omy for their profit - and they have for the Carson National Forest massive, behind the scenes power. to include the Valle Vidal. This Please see Page 22 to learn how you amendment will pave the way can take action on this issue.

Page 8 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 9 upcoming events Organ Mountains 2005 Wildlands Artist Retreat Conference November 4th- 6th de Santa Fe Spend 3 days & 2 nights at the beautiful Meson de Mesilla B&B in Historic Old Mesilla. Enjoy guided painting trips to the Organs with outdoor “plein air” painting instructor and wilderness guide. Nightly activities include guest speakers and group critiques.

Saturday, October 8, 2005 For artists of all levels & mediums. 9am to 4pm, Reception from 4pm to 6pm Retreat cost with private room: $375 Lodging and Registration begins at 8am full breakfast included. 50% deposit required by October 15th. Space is limited, so call now for reservations. El Dorado Hotel 309 West San Francisco Street Contact: Trisha London at 505.843.8696 downtown Santa Fe Proceeds to benefit Featuring New Mexico Wilderness Alliance. Dave Foreman speaking on Wilderness Guest speakers include: former Albuquerque Don’t miss this great opportunity to paint on location with Mayor Jim Baca and Representatives from the wilderness painter, Michelle Chrisman (whose artwork is featured on the cover). Michelle will teach the basics of outdoor landscape U.S. Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service painting, based on the principals of the French Impressionists: light/dark patterns, shapes and values, color temperature, and how to capture the effects of light, atmosphere and mood with The Workshop your medium of choice. fee is $40 and includes lunch.

Workshop Sessions 2005 Wildlands Conference de Santa Fe Registration Form Emergency Wilderness Medicine Please Print Diversifying Outreach in NM Name ______NM Wilderness Areas NM Roadless Areas Email ______Wilderness Activism Mailing Address______Youth in the Environment Wildlife and Wilderness City State Zip ______Oil and Gas Threats to Wilderness Creatively Protecting Wilderness: Phone ______

Art, Film and Writing.  $40 Conference per person (includes Lunch)

For more information call  Check (payable to New Mexico Wilderness Alliance) New Mexico Wilderness Alliance  Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard Only) 505-843-8696 or register online at Credit Card # www.nmwild.org, or by mail. ______Exp___/___

Special room rates are available at El Dorado. Signature______Please contact Tisha Broska at [email protected] to reserve a room. Please mail the above form with your payment to: NMWA, P.O. Box 25464, Albuquerque, NM 87125

Page 10 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 11 NEPA Puts People Before Polluters

The National Environmental complained about delays, obstacles “I don’t want to jump the gun, could have a negative impact on Policy Act, also called NEPA, is one and court battles. but I would not be surprised if our public lands. The new energy of the most important environmen- some members of this task force bill contains several provisions that tal laws in America. It is a landmark Representative Tom Udall is the undercut NEPA. First, various oil law that puts people before poli- and gas (and other energy project) tics, values science over short-term actions on public lands will be sub- thinking, and respects democracy ject to limited review under NEPA. more than dollars. It requires fed- There is also a blanket exemp- eral agencies to study and disclose tion for oil and gas construction the environmental effects of major activities from storm water require- projects on the surrounding com- ments that help protect our drink- munity and include the public in ing water. the decision-making process for federally funded projects. In the past few years, several other significant limitations have The House of Representa- been placed on NEPA and the pro- tives has formed a “Task Force to tections it provides to our public Improve NEPA” and is in the pro- lands. Many federal projects, cess of holding hearings to collect including oil and gas leasing and testimony from people who have “forest restoration” , have been had direct dealings with NEPA. exempted from specific NEPA Such a hearing was held on August requirements simply because they 1st in Rio Rancho, New Mexico to were slated as “accelerated.” Public review the role of NEPA in moun- participation and environmental tain states. Although the audi- review are fundamentally impor- torium was almost full of NEPA tant to the development of high Ranking member of the House use the opportunity to make major supporters, only a pre-selected list quality projects and protection of Task Force and is working hard to revisions of NEPA. I want to see of witnesses were allowed to give natural resources and other com- see that the hearings are success- what their ideas are based on the testimony. munity assets. NEPA provides a ful. “Given NEPA’s importance, hearings. guarantee that Americans affected Joanna Prukup, Governor Rich- those who seek to amend it face a “If they want to make significant by federal action will get the best ardson’s Secretary of Energy, heavy burden of proof to demon- changes that are not warranted, information about its impacts, a Minerals and Natural Resources, strate that changes are necessary then I will probably be one of the choice of good alternatives, and Albuquerque City Councilor Martin and in the public interest,” he said. first people to object,” Udall said the right to have their voice heard Heinrich and Rancher Tweeti Blan- Udall also added that some about the task force. before the government makes a cett were a few that spoke in sup- people in Washington have won- final decision. We need NEPA to port of the current NEPA law, while dered about motives of the review. NEPA has also been under attack protect our wild public lands! some others opposed to NEPA recently on several issues that

Secretary Babbitt will be in Santa Fe on Thursday, September 29TH at 5:00pm, Get Wild! Garcia Street Books KICK UP YOUR HEELS & EMPTY YOUR POCKETS FOR NMWA! Restoring the Florida Everglades. Dismantling Second Annual Fund-Raiser for the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance obsolete dams. Returning the wolf to Yellowstone Again Featuring The Fabulous Local Jamband and the condor to the wild. Creating the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Each was Liquid Gypsy a landmark of environmental progress in the 1990s (Rock/blues/folk/dead Covers) and each was realized under the guidance of then Under The Stars In The Backyard Of Todd Hotchkiss And Kathy Araki’s Home Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt. Now he Saturday Night, September 3, 2005 7:00 - 10:00pm draws on these experiences to develop a surprising message: such episodic conservation victories, however important, will not be sufficient either to Fat Tire on Tap, Sodas, BYOB, Munchies protect our disappearing open spaces or to contain the blight of urban sprawl. $25 Suggested Donation In Cities in the Wilderness (Island Press) (Larger Donations Dared) Secretary Babbitt makes the case for a new national land use policy. Throughout our history, Call Todd @ 873-0696 or NMWA Office @ 843-8696 from George Washington’s day to the present, or [email protected] for Directions federal policies have encouraged and subsidized destructive resource exploitation and out-of-control development that threaten the American landscape. Those Who Attended The First, Remember The Great Time We Had!! The time has come for an enlightened role that the Bring Another Person! Let’s Raise More $$$ The Second Time!! federal government can play, to ensure that the Help Keep Otero Mesa, Valle Vidal And Other Areas NM Wild! places and creatures we care about will endure for generations to come.

Page 10 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 11 some amazing individuals who har- bored common values and a strong land ethic were able to do just that. Wildlands to Wilderness Among them were Daymon Ely, who at the time was Chair of the Sandoval County Com- mission, and Peter Pino, the longtime Tribal Administrator for the Pueblo of Zia. These two individuals deserve as much credit as anyone for laying the groundwork that made Ojito possible. They were able to forge strong bonds with conservationists and turn around a formerly hostile county commission. Daymon Ely’s evenhanded and measured leadership on the Sandoval County Com- mission, along with Peter Pino’s effective advocacy in front of that body, were very much the turning point for Ojito. Together they worked openly with every Sando- val County Commissioner to overcome opposition from a number of key enti- ties including the Bureau of Land Management itself. In addition, Ojito picked up sup- port from the King brothers, who own a large ranch in the area. The Kings had recently continued from page 1 mittee chairs were replaced with cates to designate quite a number Members of Congress skeptical of of areas as wilderness in Sandoval sold part of their ranch to Zia so measures to protect public lands. County. That failed campaign was that petroglyphs, priceless cultural and animal life. During the public Then in the mid-1990s, the New a key turning point for land protec- sites and key wildlife areas could be evaluation process to determine Mexico Wilderness Alliance formed tion in New Mexico because those protected on those lands. Sam and which areas would receive interim and established itself as the state- involved learned the hard way that Don King even attended the Com- protection as Wilderness Study wide grassroots voice for wildlands. local people and local politics are mission meeting to testify for the Areas, Ojito captured the public’s NMWA began looking for potential what make or break any effort to Ojito Resolution. On December 5, imagination and inspired advocates. wilderness areas across the state, legislatively protect wild country. All 2002 the Commission voted unani- Eventually, the BLM designated with a special eye toward lands the slick brochures and high pow- mously to endorse the proposal 10,903 acres in Ojito for Wilderness managed by the Bureau of Land ered campaign materials are just no to protect 25,000 acres, making Study Area (WSA) status. Histori- Management. Soon after, the Coali- match for local relationships built 11,000 a federal wilderness and cally, it was not uncommon for the tion for New Mexico Wilderness on trust. Unfortunately, much ani- transferring the rest to Zia with con- BLM and the Secretary of Interior formed as a voice for businesses mosity would have to be overcome tinued public access. to create a WSA, but then not rec- and organizations wanting to pro- to move Ojito forward. Fortunately ommend the area for full-fledged tect these untram- Wilderness status. However, in the meled landscapes that case of Ojito, Secretary of Interior generate significant and native New Mexican Manuel statewide economic Lujan recommended in 1991 that activity. This indepen- all 10,903 acres receive full Wilder- dent coalition played ness protection. Lujan was a former an important role in Republican Congressman for the the Ojito effort. Incor- area and Secretary of Interior under porating the economic President George H.W. Bush. The arguments for land recommendation from Lujan would protection along with stand the test of time and add to a non-confrontational Ojito’s bi-partisan appeal. style and a strictly In 1991, wilderness advocates legislative focus, the tried to move forward with a state coalition made a pow- wide BLM wilderness proposal, erful and effective but could not find agreement or force for wilderness. compromise with New Mexico’s That’s not to say that Washington D.C. delegation. This there weren’t plenty of meant that all New Mexico WSAs, bumps along the way. including Ojito, would have to wait. Ojito grew out of an In 1992, Congress changed hands unsuccessful attempt and conservation-minded com- by wilderness advo- Former Zia Governor Gilbert Lucero, Congressman Tom Udall and Current Zia Governor Peter Pino at Ojito

Page 12 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 13 The resolution of support by ing credibility, local boosters began the Sandoval County Commission to turn their attention to local, and would prove to be one of the most soon thereafter, statewide elected significant milestones the Ojito cam- officials in an effort to demonstrate paign would pass, but many hur- widespread support. Before long, dles still lay in its future. Foremost the list of supporters was truly among these was with the congres- impressive. Sandoval County, Ber- sional delegation. With the county nalillo County, the City of Albuquer- behind Ojito, the first of many trips que, State Representative Roger to Washington D.C. was planned. Madelena, State Representative Joining wilderness advocates on Tom Swisstack, Lt. Governor Diane this trip was Peter Pino representing Denish, and Governor Richardson Zia and former New Mexico Gover- were just some of the local and nor Bruce King. Though Bruce is a state elected officials to officially prominent Democrat, his presence endorse this effort. By the time on this trip gave the effort increased Ojito’s advocates returned to Wash- credibility with all the members ington D.C. in June of 2003, sup- of New Mexico’s delegation and port for the idea so overwhelmingly outweighed opposition that the delegation was getting serious about introducing federal legis- lation. On this trip Con- gressman Udall commit- ted to finding a way to protect Ojito and agreed three Representatives. S. 1649 was to visit the area while introduced by Senator Bingaman, Congress was in recess. but was also co-sponsored by That visit would deeply Senator Domenici. On the House cement his commit- side H.R. 3176 was introduced by More than ment. Meanwhile both Congressman Udall, but with co- Udall’s office and that of sponsorship from Heather Wilson. Wilderness Senator Bingaman were The efforts made in the summer of reviewing draft legisla- 2003 to work across party lines for tion prepared by Zia on the benefit of these lands would be There is more to the behalf of the coalition of another milestone in this history. In Ojito Wilderness Act than Ojito supporters. the current Washington D.C. climate just a wilderness designa- it isn’t easy to pass a wilderness bill. tion. While 11,000 acres On September 24, Ojito would need all the friends it will be permanently pre- 2003 the Ojito Wilder- could get. served as wilderness, an ness Act (S. 1649/H.R. area equal in size will be 3176) was introduced By February of 2004, the bill in the House and Senate was scheduled for a hearing in the protected for its cultural during the 108th Con- Senate Committee on Energy and values. This area, which is gress. With great diplo- Natural Resources. In that commit- to the South and West of showed them that advocates were matic efforts by Bingaman’s office tee, New Mexico is well represented. the proposed Ojito Wilder- serious about seeking out support and a strong grassroots effort to Pete Domenici is the chair and Jeff ness, was used extensively from ranching interests. The Ojito build support for Ojito in Repre- Bingaman is the ranking minor- by the ancestral Zia and supporters left Washington D.C. sentative Wilson’s district, we were ity member. The bill was heard on will be returned to their having made positive impressions able to see this occur not with just February 12, and testimony was Pueblo. Public access will all around. one House and one Senate spon- taken from Peter Pino, Martin Hein- be preserved here, but this sor, but with both New Mexican rich, and Rebecca Watson. Peter area that did not as With the Ojito effort quickly gain- Pino had just been appointed Gov- Senators and two of New Mexico’s wilderness, will receive a ernor of Zia for 2004 and was also far higher level of protec- the tribal administrator. He began his testimony with a prayer in his tion under this legislation native Keresan language. He was than it has under the cur- followed by Martin Heinrich, a City rent BLM management Councilor from Albuquerque and a plan. well-known supporter of the area. Mr. Pino and Mr. Heinrich related For the Pueblo of Zia, the the substantial support and logical return of this land will also reasons for supporting the bill. Ms. mean that the two sepa- Watson, who is the Deputy Director rate pieces of land that of the BLM, was not as positive. In make up their Pueblo will her testimony she raised the ideo- now be joined. Although logically charged issue of water Zia will have to purchase rights. Despite a complete lack of this land from the BLM, permanent watercourses, this issue sites of great importance would haunt Ojito through the rest to their cultural heritage of the 108th Congress. Ms Watson will remain safe and undis- turbed. Please see OJITO, page 15

Page 12 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 13 �

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���������������������������������� The Wilderness Lodge and Hot Springs is located in the heart of the Gila Wilderness, near the confluence Find Out How YOUR AD Can of the three forks of the . It’s a great place for family Appear On This Page, TOO! reunions, workshops, retreats, birthday parties, or just a quiet weekend. www.gilahot.com (505) 536-9749. Call Tisha Broska 505-843-8696

Page 14 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 15 legislation the Senate was trying to May 18 the House Resources Com- finalize. As time ran out, Senator mittee unanimously approved the Domenici and Senator Bingaman bill. By the end of May, all that lay finally agreed upon language to ahead for Ojito was to see it sched- address the controversial issue of uled for a floor vote in both cham- OJITO continued from pg. 13 water rights. Amazingly, Ojito passed bers of Congress. the Senate as part of a package of public lands bills on December 7, On July 26 of this year the stars 2004. This was impressive and for- aligned and the US Senate passed tuitous since the bill was never actu- the Ojito Wilderness Act (S. 156) ally approved by the relevant Senate as a standalone piece of legislation. committee. No packages, no surprises, just a successful unanimous vote. That Sadly, this breakthrough came clears the way for the House bill to too late in the 108th Congress. The take up the Senate passed legislation version which had been passed by and send it on to the President. It is the House in October was slightly worthy to note that all of our House different than the Senate version. and Senate sponsors deserve credit In addition, the Senate passed the for putting the preservation of the Ojito legislation as part of a pack- Ojito ahead of politics. Each of their age of bills that included several offices has repeatedly committed to controversial measures that would passing whichever bill moved first, not be taken up by the House. Con- whether it was S. 156 in the Senate, gress adjourned having passed the or H.R. 362 in the House. As silly as Ojito Wilderness Act through both it may seem, it is not uncommon the House and Senate, but because for legislation to stall over whether the legislation was not identical, this the bill signed by the President has bill would have to wait for the 109th the House or Senate number on it. Congress. Our delegation has shown they are bigger than that, and we should be Ojito was among the first bills proud and thankful. Today, all that also introduced a completely unex- continued. There were some very introduced into the 109th Congress remains left to accomplish on the pected wilD.C.ard by suggesting that worrisome efforts by some mem- by the New Mexico delegation. On Ojito Wilderness Act’s long journey we could not move forward with bers of the House Committee to stir January 24, 2005 it was reintro- to becoming a law, is for the House this particular land transfer without up opposition to the bill and even to duced in both chambers. This time to take up and pass the Senate ver- dealing with the larger pending and suggest using this bill as a vehicle to there was agreement on all aspects sion. Congressman Udall and Con- more global issue of Indian Trust release other WSAs in the state. With of the measure and the House and gresswoman Wilson have pledged land reform. Fortunately this issue strong resistance from Congress- Senate versions were carbon copies to move forward as quickly as the did not resonate with any of the woman Wilson and Congressman of one another. As a result, progress House leadership will allow. Let us Senators and was not actively pur- Udall, these efforts did not gain trac- was relatively quick. On February 9, all hope that by the time you receive sued by the BLM or the Department tion and the bill was marked up by 2005 the Ojito bill was marked up your next newsletter, the Ojito Wil- of Interior. the House Resources Committee on by the Senate Energy Committee derness Act will be part of New Mex- October 4, 2004. From there it went without so much as a hearing. On ico’s successful Wilderness history. Because of the water rights issue straight to the floor and it passed the and a disagreement between Sena- House unanimously on October 5, tor Bingaman and Domenici on 2004. In the process however, it was how to handle it, progress on the combined with a bill from Nevada bill began to stall in the Senate. The that also included wilderness desig- next step, a “mark up” or approval nation and a series of other public of the bill by the full committee was lands-related issues. The packag- not forthcoming. However, progress ing issue was a somewhat unex- continued in the House. Despite a pected complication, which as the hostile Resources Committee chair, end of the Congressional session Ojito was scheduled for a hearing on approached, cost the most precious July 20. Both Congressman Udall, resource in Washington D.C.… time. who holds an important minor- ity position on the committee, and On the Senate side things were Congresswoman Wilson, who has still stalled and the clock was tick- the advantage of being in the major- ing. Congress was getting closer ity party, testified in favor of the bill. and closer to adjournment and the With the strong support of both Ojito Wilderness Act was small pota- Udall and Wilson the bill’s progress toes compared to some of the other

Page 14 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 15 Pat Lyons: Land Boss Manages 9 million acres of New Mexico’s Future

as solely to make money for coyote killing on most state lands. In August of 2004, about two- the state trust and education. In After an outcry from wildlife activ- dozen Velarde residents, work- an Albuquerque Tribune article, ists, Lyons pulled back some of ing with a law firm (mostly pro Lyons stated clearly, “I think the these changes, but a pattern in the bono), filed a Writ of Mandamus whole attitude of New Mexico Commissioner’s style was emerg- in the First Judicial Court. The should be pro-business and to ing. writ accuses the State Land Office create job opportunities for our of failing to follow the law by citizens, we have to change our Early in his tenure, Lyons awarding the mining lease and attitude in New Mexico.” appeared to reach out to the con- demanded that it address the rec- servation community, appointing lamation of the dangerous 150- From a conservationist per- David Bacon, New Mexico Green foot high wall left from previous spective, this mission may Party nominee (who had an incon- mining operations on private land seem short-sited, but the fault sistent position on the protection that abuts state land. The lawsuit is not completely with the com- of Otero Mesa) for governor to also claimed that the mine violated missioner. Our state constitu- the important Land Trust Advisory the Clean Water Act and that Lyons tion was written more than Board. Lyons, an avid hunter and violated the state constitution’s 100 years ago and within that angler, also removed a rancher anti-donation clause by awarding a framework, Lyons can argue from this board because the man mining contract to Coppola Mining. fairly that he is simply following shot and killed numerous elk that The clause bars state resources by Stephen Capra his mandate. However, former had been feeding on his ranch from being used for private gain Land Commissioners including Jim property. But there were other, Until this last election, few and may have been violated Baca and Ray Powell chose a more more controversial issues that people in our state were familiar because Lyons awarded a mining modern interpretation of their define the tenure of the current with the name Pat Lyons. Lyons, contract to Coppola Mining for roles and tried to balance develop- Commissioner. a third-generation New Mexican less than the minimum required ment with preservation. In Arizona who owns a 15,000-acre ranch in payment. In November, the judge (a state that came into the Union Velarde Mining the eastern plains of New Mexico, signed an order calling for both at the same time as New Mexico became only the second Republi- In June of 2004, with no more parties to discuss settling the case. and shared the Enabling Act and can Land Commissioner since the than 48 hours notice, the State Since that time, discussions were Constitution that spelled out the Great Depression. He did so by Land Office held a public -meet ongoing, but have recently broken duties of the Commissioner), they squeaking out a razor thin victory ing to inform the community of off. This means the case will likely have passed amendments that over Democrat Art Trujillo. Lyons Velarde that they had withdrawn be resolved by the courts. make it far easier to manage state previously served ten years in the the lawsuit that former Land trust lands in the 21st century. State Senate representing Senate Commissioner Ray Powell had New Mexico’s land management District 7. used to stop a sand and gravel policies need aggressive changes operation in the community. The role of the State Land Com- if we are to protect some of these To make matters worse, Com- missioner is to oversee 9 million important wild state lands from missioner Lyons had leased an acres of state trust lands and over irresponsible development. additional 160 acres of State 13 million acres of subsurface Lyons has pursued oil and gas Land adjacent to the property mineral rights, including oil and development on many tracts of (and the village of Velarde) to gas. Royalties from these state our state lands- all in the name Coppola Mining for further sand lands and interests controlled by of raising money for our schools. and gravel mining. In this case the Land Office help support New While education is a worthy cause, a five-year lease was negotiated Mexico Public Schools, as well as this mission ignores the other (with options to renew) without universities, special schools, hos- potential roles of a Land Com- any public input or advance pitals, prisons and state buildings. missioner: being a steward of notification to the community. Land Office officials estimated By all accounts, Pat Lyons is a the land, managing multiple-use the mine would bring $250,000 genuinely nice person who has lands and in some cases leaving to $500,000 to the state fund. demonstrated that he can petition them wild. A Land Commissioner Within days of this deal, the for the environment. He wrote should also understand that wild- State Land Office denied a strong letter of support for our life is an integral part of our state another lease application for efforts to protect the Ojito Wil- lands, not simply a problem need- the same tract of land, because derness area. However, he also ing control. in their words it was “not in the fought hard to ensure the open- Shortly after his election, Lyons best interest of the people of New White Peak ing of the Mine and moved quickly to change some of Mexico.” The reality of this deal was dismayed when a bi-partisan No issue, except perhaps Otero the rules laid down by his prede- was that almost overnight Coppola group of New Mexico Representa- Mesa, has created the contro- cessor Ray Powell. One of these starting mining sand and gravel on tives sent a letter to the U.S. Inte- versy that came from the Land changes was to allow ranchers the state land and trucking it out rior Department asking for a sus- Commissioner’s decision to trade to shoot or trap so-called “prob- through Velarde. This meant some pension of the mining permit. lands in the White Peak area in lem coyotes” on their state-leased 200 loads a day or 400 truck trips Colfax County. Lyons once again It appears that Lyons views his lands. During his ten year reign operating 6-7 days a week starting moved quickly on a deal he felt mission as Land Commissioner in office, Powell had prohibited at 5:30 in the morning. was in the state’s best interest.

Page 16 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 17 He promoted a plan to swap out ney General and so far has favored ‘em do drilling down there,” Lyons Lyons. Interestingly, Lyons even 40,000 acres of prime state hunt- access for sportsmen. Had the CS said in a meeting with the Albu- returned a $1000 donation that ing land near the top of White acquired this land they would have querque Journal. Lyons went on to came from the wife of tobacco Peak and acquire the 50,000-acre controlled land on both sides of speak about the state bringing in tycoon Brad Kelly of Boca Grande, Dawson Ranch (a.k.a. Spanish this road and prime game habitat over $3 million dollars a year from Florida to appear not to have a Trail Land and Cattle Co.) owned that could bring private hunts for royalties in Otero Mesa. Yet, where conflict of interest on the Dawson by Tobacco tycoon Brad Kelly of as much as $10,000 per client- such an amount of revenue would Ranch deal at White Peak. How- Florida. Lyons’ plan was to make thus cutting many New Mexico come from remains questionable. ever, some of the oil interests who the Dawson into a state park that sportsmen out of the area. The BLM has repeatedly stated gave to Lyons do have an interest would include a railroad line for that they think there is a very low in developing Otero Mesa; with a better access and the development Currently, there is a bill in the potential for recoverable amounts tough re-election on the horizon, of oil and gas to bring in money state Senate sponsored by Sena- of oil and gas in Otero Mesa, the Land Commissioner will need for the state. Lyons promoted this tor Pete Compos that would which likely means this number all the friends he can muster. deal as a way to resolve growing work to acquire the CS Ranch is based solely on conflicts of access on White Peak thus preserving the prime state oil industry specula- between ranchers and hunters and hunting lands of White Peak. This tion. Approximately as a means to consolidate the land bill would end the checkerboard 80,000 acres of state ownership of the area. While many situation that has lead to conflicts trust lands leased in hunters agreed that consolidation between sportsmen and ranchers Otero Mesa in 1997 of the White Peak area was a good and would continue to allow New and 1998, have idea, many sportsmen remained Mexican’s access to this beautiful raised $700,000 for skeptical about the Land Commis- mountain. the state. Recently, sioner’s approach. They claimed Otero Mesa at a meeting in Las that the Dawson was a far inferior Cruces, Lyons told source of game and was scenically As the Governor and Attorney Kevin Bixby (Execu- less appealing. Governor Richard- General push hard to prevent oil tive Director of the son agreed with the sportsmen and gas development in Otero Southwest Environ- and in June of 2003 issued the Mesa (including filing a lawsuit mental Center) that following statement. “Pat Lyons’ against the Bureau of Land Man- he might be will- land swap would trade some of agement), Pat Lyons suddenly ing to trade out the the best hunting and recreation filed a brief in support of drilling state parcels in Otero land for lesser land that includes in this wild grassland. For Lyons, Mesa. The conversa- a mountain that has been heav- once again, the message was rais- tion was overheard ily mined. Pat Lyons’ policy will ing money for schoolchildren, not by a local reporter deprive access to New Mexicans destruction of a wild and impor- who questioned and allow out-of-state interests to tant grassland or contaminating Lyons after the meet- get full access.” New Mexico’s largest remaining ing. Unfortunately, fresh water aquifer. The Land the Land Commis- With the Governor fighting and Commissioner remains steadfastly sioner appeared to the sportsmen opposed, Lyons on message (the oil and gas indus- back away from his yielded and the deal was dead. try’s message) that the drilling is comments. However, Lyons would try one seemingly the most restrictive ever more time to trade out the prime and that they can drill in an envi- Lyons has shown state lands at White Peak. He put ronmentally sound manner. More a pattern of getting together a new deal covering a than anything, he speaks about out in front of issues smaller amount of land. This deal the need for more revenue. Cur- and then yielding to involved trading 1,800 acres of rently, the state has over 50,000 concerns of those state land, again near the top of producing wells and that number affected by his deci- White Peak to the CS Cattle Co. In continues to grow. To contend that sions. We hope that return, the CS would trade 1,200 our children’s future hinges on the in the case of Otero acres of prairie lands near the base development of Otero Mesa is, of Mesa he will follow of the mountain and retain full course, a false rationalization. this pattern and try grazing rights. Once again, sports- to swap out parcels men cried foul. This time Lyons In June, Lyons made a presenta- of state land, for met with some of the sports- tion to the Lincoln County Commis- those in other areas. men to try to convince them to sioners. His talk was straight from Such a move would back him up on this deal. In one the BLM’s playbook that highlights be welcome and exchange Ed Olona remembers restrictive drilling and environmen- show tremendous Lyons telling him that “at night elk tally sound development. All these common sense on come down to the watering holes,” so-called “facts” continue to distort such a politically and implying they could be hunted. the reality on the ground. Without emotionally charged Olona’s soft-spoken wife reminded giving the Governor’s office the issue. the Land Commissioner that hunt- chance to refute these arguments, ing was illegal at night. the Lincoln County Commissioners Some have argued voted unanimously to support the that all of Patrick Had this deal occurred, it would development of Otero Mesa. Sev- Lyons’ actions are have consolidated lands for the eral weeks later, the Land Com- political payback CS, but also could have created missioner went public with his to the oil and gas more controversy about the clos- efforts to battle the Governor and industry. But records ing of State Highway 199. This Attorney General in their lawsuit to show that his Demo- highway is an access road that has protect Otero Mesa. cratic opponent, Art created problems for ranchers and Trujillo received far sportsmen since 1978. The access “We’re going to intervene to let more money from battle has involved the State Attor- oil and gas than did

Page 16 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 17 divide between the Mesilla Valley October 15th, 2005-4th of July on the west and the Jornada del Canyon, Manzano Wilderness Muerto to the north and east. Come experience one of the These mountains are composed most beautiful sights in all of New primarily of volcanic rocks. The Mexico-the Fall foliage of the Red view from Dona Ana Peak is in the Manzano Wilderness! spectacular; at least ten other Experience one of the most rare mountain ranges can be seen from sights in the Rocky Mountain West this vantage point at the southern as we hike through the lush end of the Jornada del Muerto. We forest in all of its fall magnificence. will watch for Yellow Bell on this Contact: Nathan Newcomer at hike, a unique, small shrub with 843-8696 for more info. beautiful yellow blossoms. Distance: 4.5 miles round-trip Time: 4 to 6 hours round-trip plus October 15 driving time Fillmore-La Cueva, Organ Mts. Elevation Range: 7,600 to 8,680 feet Distance: 3.25 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Low point: 5,450 feet High point: 5,850 feet Difficulty: easy

FALL 2005 September 24th, 2005-Yapashi FALL 2005 Located in the Organ Mountains, Ruins, Bandelier Wilderness this is a loop hike that can be hiked NORTHERN SOUTHERN in either direction. At least a small This is perhaps the most amount of water is found at the NM HIKES interesting and scenic trail in the NM HIKES upper end of the trail in Fillmore Bandelier Back country. It is not Canyon. La Cueva is an interesting PLEASE RSVP by 5:00 on extraordinarily difficult, but it’s archeological site. Interpretive signs the Thursday before a hike is Contact Alberto Zavala in not for the woefully out-of-shape. tell the story of a hermit that lived scheduled. We meet at the parking NMWA’s Las Cruces office for The Yapashi Ruins Trail meanders in that cave in the 1800’s. lot for our office at Central and through open grassy parkland information on all the following Broadway at 7:30am. We will figure hikes. You can reach him at 505- studded with ponderosas. The November 12 out the car pool situation at that 527-9962 or send an e-mail to canyon is littered with bright Achenbach Canyon, Organ Mts. time (if you’re willing to drive, it is cottonwoods, , box elder [email protected] greatly appreciated). We will have and other plants that survive due Distance: 5.0 miles you back to our office by 6:30pm, September 24 to a stream. The trail eventually Low point: 5,100 feet likely much earlier, and driving Dona Ana Peak leads to the ancient Yapashi Ruins High point: 6,330 feet time is less than 11⁄2 hours each where we will break and turn back. Difficulty: Moderate way unless noted otherwise. Bring Contact: Nathan Newcomer at Distance: 8 miles your own water, snacks, and lunch, Low point: 4,335 feet 843-8696 for more info. The views to the west out of and be prepared for all types of High point: 5,835 feet Distance: 10 miles round-trip Achenbach canyon are superb, weather. Call Nathan Newcomer or Difficulty: Moderate Time: 6 to 8 hours round-trip plus especially from the picturesque Michael Scialdone at the ABQ office driving time outcroppings around Achenbach at 843-8696 for more info. Elevation Range: 6,066 to 6,625 The Dona Ana mountains are located approximately ten miles Tank. From the ridge at the end of feet the hike, you can look east down September 17th, 2005- Kasha- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous north of Las Cruces, forming a Katuwe Tent Rocks National Soledad Canyon to the Tularosa Monument Basin. Baldy Peak and the Needles

Cone-shaped rock structures form one of New Mexico’s most unusual vistas, and the Monument’s archeological sites reflect 4,000 years of human occupation. The formations were carved by water and wind out of a soft layer of pumice and ash deposited by massive volcanoes about 6.8 million years ago. The hike consists of an easy loop with some steep climbs here and there. A easy day hike into one of New Mexico’s most wondrous natural formations, and only an hour from Albuquerque. Contact: Nathan Newcomer at 843- 8696 for more info. Distance: 3 miles round-trip Time: 2 to 4 hours round-trip plus driving time Elevation Range: 5,750 to 6,381 feet Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Page 18 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 19 people& Trout Fishing wilderness Wild Waters

by James Broska tainted from meal pellets, antibi- otics, and artificial insemination. I step into the water and a chill No thanks! I want a fish born of a goes up my back. The water is fish that fought the high waters of cold, only about 52 degrees even spring runoff; that beat the odds of though it’s July and 85 degrees in natural selection; that survived the the sun. I’m up at about 8,800 cold of winter and the low waters feet in elevation and the sun is so of drought. I want to take part in a bright I can barely see through the natural cycle that only the river can water, even with my polarized sun- maintain. I want to fish in a place glasses. As I step into the water, I where there’s mystery around step into a day of reflection. Not every bend and every meander. I just of sun off the water, but of want to fish in a place that takes self reflection, and to a higher work to get to because it makes degree, reflection on Wilderness. the cast, and the catch, and the On this part of the river I won’t release so much sweeter. see another person for the whole day, or for that matter, for the Like I said, hard to get to and whole weekend. Not true on the hard to leave. Hard to leave higher section where a reservoir because my time here is so short captures as it first melts and the river just keeps on flow- on its long journey to the Gulf of ing. Hard to leave because I know Mexico. And not true on the lower it will be far too long before I can section where there’s a 4x4 road find the time to return. Hard to adjacent to the river with 25 camp- leave because I’m afraid that Wil- sites along its seven mile length in derness and wild places may be the National Forest. But here, this becoming a thing of the past. If section flows through Wilderness. we lose Wilderness, I may lose the Hard to get to and hard to leave. only places I really like to fish. Hard to get to because I had to drive over 25 miles of dirt and gravel and mud, and then hike three miles to a gorge and then bushwhack my way down. Down through scree of rocks—down through the tangle of thoughts I came to leave behind—and down seemingly, through time. I came to cast a little piece of nylon, string and color through the air and into the timelessness of Wilderness. The kind of fly fish- ing I like to do isn’t done from the bank of the river where my truck is parked. This kind of fly fish- ing can only be found in places where, in turn, you might find yourself lost. It’s a plain fact that the best trout fishing in America is found in roadless areas and the best roadless areas are found in Wilderness. Wilderness obviously means wild, and for me, the best caught fish is a wild fish. Sure, those fac- tory, farm-raised fish that were released earlier this year have gone wild from a fishery’s man- agement perspective. But from the river’s perspective, they’re about as wild as a free-ranging Angus. From my perspective, they’re

Page 18 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 19 NMWA Helping Schools to Understand Wilderness

the high schools of St. Pius, Acad- Most of us, emy, and Highland, with Albu- whether we like to admit it or not, querque High, Sandia Prep, Amy can remember growing up in high Biehl, and Taos Public Schools school and trying to figure out next in line. In addition to pre- just what the heck life is really all sentations, work is being done about. We struggled with under- to establish a practical wilderness standing schoolwork, our emo- curriculum that schools can incor- tions, our thoughts, and many porate into the classroom. Such other issues which contributed curriculum ideas include integrat- Bringing Back to the discovery of our identities ing wilderness service projects, and opinions. So, not surpris- where the students themselves the Jaguar ingly, amidst all the turmoil of get to experience first hand how adolescents, most New Mexico to restore a watershed in the Jaguars on some successes tabling has high school students have no idea Sandia Wilderness, close an ille- Although are native secured for New Mexico Wilder- what conservation, activism and gal ATV access road, or how to to New Mexico, habitat loss has ness. Among other things, we have wilderness preservation are, let document petro- forced them south beyond our bor- signed on hundreds of new mem- alone how important these ders, where they now only make bers, had countless informative concepts are to the vitality of furtive forays into the wilder parts conversations, spread Protect Wil- the planet and our lives. of New Mexico’s Boot Heel coun- derness and Keep It Wild bumper try. Recently though, a dedicated stickers across New Mexico, and However, even though a stu- group of folks who call themselves most importantly been a constant dent may be thinking: “What is ‘tablers’ began bringing the jaguar voice for wilderness and common wilderness!?” their ears tend to back to New Mexico, this time as sense conservation. perk up intently, whether W the face of the New Mexico Wil- with skepticism derness Alliance. In this new role Tabling is divisible into two cat- or intrigue. For the big cats neither roar nor run, egories: education and action. those of us but they do help protect wilder- Education covers everything from that value and D ness. New wilderness offers the wildlife species on Otero Mesa to understand the jaguar its best chance to perma- the actual history and goals of the integrity of wilder- L nently return to New Mexico, along New Mexico Wilderness Alliance. ness preservation, I glyphs on with preserving the many different But, as Edward Abbey once wrote, this is fantastic “Sentiment without action is the Alamo Mountain. Fur- wildlands that collectively make news. Moreover, ruin of the soul.” Tablers therefore thermore, while talking about cur- New Mexico the “Land of Enchant- even for those of us that pride themselves on offering ways rent wilderness issues like Otero ment.” only have a minor understanding for engaged citizens to join in pro- Mesa and the Ojito Wilderness of wilderness and conservation, Bekah McAnn, one of our most tecting New Mexican wildlands. Act, the notion of activism and we too can be excited. Our high effective tablers and a native New Whether this means signing the applying it within the commu- school students are open books Mexican, puts it this way, “Tabling petition to make much of Otero nity has become a corner stone gathering chapters to create their to me is a great way to reach out to Mesa a National Conservation of the discussion. Students are own personal novel. Those sec- the community on important local Area, or becoming a member with especially fascinated about how tions, which invite wonder and issues.” This simplicity ensures wil- the New Mexico Wilderness Alli- to participate in government, and inspiration, tend to be the more derness always remains the focus ance, action ensures New Mexico how their voices can help make a memorable ones that produce our of tabling, while also allowing for remains “The Land of Enchant- difference in protecting wild lands outlook and convictions. Wilder- wide-ranging conversations to ment” complete with el tigre, the in New Mexico. develop at the table. Bekah adds, jaguar. ness is one of those convictions “I love having positive that the New Mexico Wilderness Much work is still needed to conversations because I Alliance is working to achieve ensure the continuation of educat- really feel that the tabling within our high school system. ing New Mexico’s young minds. is making a difference.” The wave of the future is gearing Today, the New Mexico Wilder- up for yet another year of classes, Tabling is not just sun- ness Alliance is organizing out- and New Mexico Wilderness Alli- shine and roses though. reach and involvement within ance will continue to work to be Bekah goes on to say, New Mexico’s public and private a part of quality education within “…the worst kinds of high schools, and the response our high schools. conversations are those has been tremendous. From where people tell me administrators and teachers, right If you or someone you know that I am tabling for no on down to the kids in the class- would be interested in having a pre- reason.” Whether done room, the idea of wilderness edu- sentation given to your classroom out of spite or apathy, cation is beginning to emerge. or school, please contact Nathan every tabler deals with Newcomer at [email protected] this. When it happens, Over the course of five months, or 505-843-8696. it is important to reflect NMWA has given presentations to

Page 20 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 21 Letters To NM WA

Dear Editor: mess that southeast New Mexico/West Texas oil patch Thanks for your excellent country is. summer issue of New Mexico Wild! Stephen Capra’s article, We don’t need the paltry The Birthplace of Wilder- amount of oil/gas likely to ness, was very informative. It be found there. We need more helped me to understand the renewable energy and energy complex history of roadless efficient technologies. By the and wilderness areas. way, the Geo Metro I drive gets 50 miles per gallon. We I also read with interest need more vehicles like this Dave Foreman’s article about not gas guzzling SUVs! Nature’s Crisis, and his cri- technologies. A focus on the Dear President Bush: tique of the environmental development of less destruc- Save Otero Mesa! movement. The trend toward tive technologies and prac- It has been said that what Stephen Cook “sustainable development” in tices is absolutely crucial if separates homo sapiens from Weed, NM place of preservation of wil- we hope to protect the wil- other animal species is the derness is a disturbing one. derness and the planet as a human capacity for rational whole. thought, decision-making and Last, I want to thank Trisha compassion. Humans pride Dear President Bush- London for her article about Mr. Foreman criticizes conser- themselves on being a “civi- It is a sad and terrible thing the Native Plant Society of vation publications for giving lized” and “evolved” life form. to contemplate the possible oil New Mexico’s hike on Otero too much space to sustainable If this is indeed true, does and gas development on Otero Mesa, and for helping to orga- development. I applaud them it not become our natural Mesa. The impact of oil and W nize our visit to this unique for seeing the crucial con- responsibility to use these tal- gas drilling would be devas- landscape. We thoroughly nection between conservation ents and gifts for the better- tating. We who are natives of enjoyed our encounter with and the need for both small ment of all life on the planet? New Mexico cherish this land the beautiful native plants and large scale changes in I believe that to push ahead and do everything possible to on Alamo Mountain. And for the way humans occupy the with a personal agenda with- protect it from depredation. D the curious reader and plant planet. out considering the effect on Less than 3% of New Mexico L lover, the photo on page 8 is the environment and all living is protected. If Otero Mesa is Sincerely, Gilia rigidula, or Blue Bowls, things, is an irresponsible use not saved, it is an invitation I a stunning, albeit miniscule, Deanna L Nichols of these talents and gifts. The to destroy more wilderness member of the Phlox family. people of New Mexico have areas. Such an act amounts made it clear that the intrin- Sincerely, to stealing land which should Dear NMWA- sic value of Otero Mesa -every belong to future generations. Donna Stevens, President stone, every blade of grass, In a world that is torn apart Hello. I just wanted to let you Gila Chapter, Native Plant every drop of clean water and by cruelty and violence, it is know that I was in Albuquer- Society of New Mexico every living creature there- so important to let there be que last month having lunch outweighs the desperate quest places of peace and beauty. downtown at someplace called for oil. Some things in life When we work to save endan- Pearl’s Dive. I discovered your Dear NMWA- cannot be bought and sold, gered species, we are saving publication entitled NM Wild. indeed their values cannot be ourselves. Regarding “2005: Nature’s What a great publication! measured in dollars. It has Crisis” (volume VII, number been proven that pre-existing President Bush, please look Congratulations for having II): I am with Dave Foreman oil wells sit dormant in other beyond the superficiality the brains and courage to on the importance of protect- places around the country, of what may appear to be publish such a much needed ing nature for its’ own sake. I and there has been a consid- practical reality. Drilling for publication. Few Americans am disturbed, however, by his erable neglect at the highest gas and oil on Otero Mesa know this country better characterization of the sus- governmental level to invest does not represent progress; than I. Trust me, this country tainable development move- in alternatives to oil and gas. instead annihilation. Please is rapidly going to hell in a ment as a compromise, rather Please respect Otero Mesa, reach beyond your advisers in hand-basket. With 300 million than a necessary complement, the people and creatures of order to connect with the cre- people currently living in the to conservation efforts. New Mexico! ator who gave us the gift of USA, wide open spaces and such beauty- the wilderness All of us are dependent on vanishing wildlife will con- A. Bickel that soothes the soul. The the foods produced by the tinue to be the trend. There- Albuquerque, NM wilderness belongs to Native ranchers and farmers whose fore, we need you!! practices often conflict with Americans, also. Follow their habitat protection. Most of Please continue to fight the example. Understand the us are dependent on cars, good fight! Dear President Bush: wisdom of the Universe, the flush toilets, and other facts profundity of wildlands. Scott A. Kline Those of us who live near of modern life which rely on Battle Creek Michigan Otero Mesa don’t want it MFD environmentally destructive turned into the ugly, smelly Rio Rancho, NM

Page 20 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 21 ACTION ALERT! involved. Valle Vidal Scoping Comments IT’S PEOPLE THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

WHAT MORE Tell the Forest Service to Protect CAN I DO? New Mexico’s Valle Vidal

Have you written your letters On June 14, 2005, for Otero Mesa? Have you ever the U.S. Forest Service attended an event to show your began a formal pro- support for protecting this wild cess that will ultimately grassland? determine whether or Have you donated money to not the eastern half ensure the work goes on to pre- of the Valle Vidal will vent oil and gas development in be leased for coalbed America’s wildest grassland? Do methane development. you find yourself asking, “What The first step in this more can I do?” If you answered process is the prepa- yes to any of these questions, ration of a Forest Plan then there is something else that Amendment to incor- you can do to further the pro- porate the Valle Vidal tection for Otero Mesa and help Unit into the Carson shape political policy and atti- National Forest’s over- tude. all Forest Plan. That Forest Plan Amend- Nathan Newcomer, Grassroots ment will establish a Organizer and Media Coordinator specific vision for the with the New Mexico Wilderness Valle Vidal, and set out Alliance will be organizing our certain “management members, volunteers, and sup- highlights,” and stan- porters to meet with Senator Jeff dards and guidelines. Bingaman and/or his staff, right Talking points: business, outdoor enthusiasts, Boy here in New Mexico! No expen- The Carson National Forest is Scouts, and future generations. · “The Vision” for the Valle Vidal sive plane ticket to Washington accepting public comments on · The Forest Service should put D.C. needed. You also will not this Forest Plan Amendment now as written in the Forest Service’s Proposed Action, does not reflect the entire Valle Vidal off limits to oil have to meet the Senator or his through September 14, 2005. and gas leasing NOW, in the Forest staff by yourself. my vision for the Valle Vidal. Speak up today to ensure that the Plan Amendment stage. They Valle Vidal is not slated for energy I want to see the Valle Vidal’s Every month is available, so should NOT defer this decision to a development! “unique combination of wild land there is no need to be confined resources”—habitat, range, fish, future analysis of leasing. to a certain date. Periodically, What to Do: wildlife, riparian and watershed Senator Bingaman will be back resources “restored and improved” Send Your Comments To: in New Mexico during recess, Send your comments to the across the board, NOT simply Carson National Forest but even if he is not here you can Forest Service by September 14, “maintained or sustained.” Attn: Valle Vidal Forest Plan still meet with his staff. We are 2005, urging the agency to protect Amendment working to make sure that Otero the Valle Vidal by closing the entire · The Forest Service must estab- 208 Cruz Alta Road Mesa is the number one issue he area to energy leasing and develop- lish a management framework that Taos, NM 87571 hears about. This is an important ment. incorporates the common sense opportunity to help make a differ- principle that it is easier to prevent Talking points, a sample letter and ence in saving Otero Mesa, and is harm to the land than to attempt to Or email: actually a relatively easy process. background information are below. repair it later. Preventing devastat- [email protected] If at all possible, please write your ing impacts, like those of coalbed If you are interested in doing methane development, is the only “Valle Vidal Forest Plan Amend- more for Otero Mesa and you own, original comments that incor- ment” must be in the subject line. porate the talking points below. Orig- way that the Valle Vidal can truly be want to set-up a meeting with restored and improved. Senator Bingaman and/or his inal comments are the most effective Congress has the ultimate power staff, please contact Nathan way to make your voice heard in · The Forest Service should per- to protect the Valle Vidal! this Forest Service planning process. Newcomer at 505-843-8696 or manently close the entire Valle Vidal Send copies of your comments to our If you cannot write your own com- [email protected]. Nathan will to energy leasing and development. congressional representatives with a ments by the deadline, please use be able to guide you through the The Valle Vidal should be protected short note asking them to permanently the sample letter. You must provide process step-by-step and help for the benefit of sportsmen, ranch- protect the Valle Vidal. See page 23 for your name and address for your you set up your meeting. You’ll ers, outfitters and guides, local your Congressperson’s address. be glad you did! comments to count.

Page 22 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 23 Thank you for making our Yard Sale a success!

New Mexico Wilderness Alliance Special thanks to: orderform P.O. Box 25464, Albuquerque, NM 87125 Budd Berkman, Debra Campbell, Mr. And Mrs. Bloom, Dusty Trails, Casey Schneider, Name ______Benny Pacheco, Hildegard Adams, Nancy Murray and Carol Norton. Special Thanks Phone ______to our business partners: BE HEARD. Gold’s Gym, Java Joe’s, GOVERNMENT Street ______Anapurna Chai House, The CONTACTS Chocolate Café, Dagmar’s E-mail______Delectables, The Fortune Call Washington, D.C. toll-free.

(Including Homeland Security) Cookie and TLC Bakery NMWA NEVER SHARES YOUR YOUR SHARES NEVER NMWA INFORMATION WITH ANYONE!!! INFORMATION City, State, Zip ______Capitol Switchboard Number: 877-762-8762 Item Description Qty Cost Total Just ask the operator to connect you to your New Mexico Senator or Congressman.

GREAT FOOD Senator Pete V. Domenici LIVE 328 Hart Senate Office Bldg. 509 Central Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20510-3101 Albuquerque, NM 87102 (202) 224-6621 Phone: (505) 244-9405 (202) 228-0900

Senator Jeff Bingaman 703 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Merchandise Total Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-5521

£ Enclosed is my check payable to New Mexico Wilderness Alliance (202) 224-2852 fax  Please charge my £ Visa or £ Mastercard Congresswoman Heather Wilson Card# ______Expiration Date: ______318 Cannon House Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20515 Signature: ______(202) 225-6316 (202) 225-4975 fax

Join the Friends of Wilderness Congressman Steve Pearce 1408 Longworth House Office Bldg. monthly giving program. Washington, D.C. 20515 Contact Roxanne at (202) 225-2365 Art sold by Kemper Barkhurst of Identified Media to benefit New (202) 225-9599 fax 505/843-8696 to get set up. Mexico Wilderness Alliance. Come check out some great art downtown, and help Wilderness too! Congressman Tom Udall 1414 Longworth House Office Bldg. Join New Mexico Wilderness Alliance Washington, D.C. 20515 Today! You’ll not only help preserve (202) 225-6190 New Mexico’s Wild Places for your own (202) 226-1331 fax enjoyment… but you’ll help insure that future generations may enjoy them too. Governor Bill Richardson Office of the Governor YES! I want to be a member of the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance!!! My contribution will go Mail your State Capitol Bldg., Suite 300 towards the continued protection and wilderness designation of New Mexico’s natural heritage. Tax Deductible Santa Fe, NM 87501 q$25 – Individual q$100 – Contributing qOther $______Donations to: (505) 476-2200 q$30 – Family q$500 – Lifetime q$50 – Supporting q$10 – Student/Senior (505) 476-2226 fax New Mexico Name ______Phone______Wilderness Alliance Street ______E-mail______PO Box 25464 Concerned about oil and gas City, State, Zip ______Albuquerque, NM development on our public lands? 87125-0464 £ Enclosed is my check payable to New Mexico Wilderness Alliance write: Linda Rundell  Please charge my £ Visa or £ Mastercard Questions? Card# Expiration Date: BLM State Director ______505/843-8696 Signature: ______P.O. Box 27115 Santa Fe, NM 87502-0115

Page 22 Autumn 2005 New Mexico WILD! Page 23 Your pur chases will help NMW A sa v e N e w Me xic o ’s C heck out the gr ea t gear no w a v ailable thr ough NMW A! wildest plac es!

Ot er o Mesa D VD G e t t h e g o o d s t o d a y ! Experienc e the wild and U s e t h e o rd e r f o r m o n p a g e 1 9, Oil On Ic e D VD special magic tha t is Ot er o or call Highligh ting the c on tr o v ersies Mesa. Includes e xtr aor dinary 505-843-8696 surr ounding the pursuit of oil f ootage of this wild gr assland M-F 10a-4p drilling in the A r ctic N a tional and in t erview s with Go v ernor Wildlif e Refuge . Richar dson, scien tists and G ET F REE C ost $20 activists . C ost $6 S H I P P I N G & H A N D L I N G O N A L L O R D E R S!

F ield Guide t o the Sandia Moun tains 100 Hik es in Hiking N e w Me xic o ’s Best E asy Sandia Moun tains Hiking Guide D a y Hik es and D a y Hik es- San ta F e N e w Me xic o Bob July an and Mary S tuv er Mike C oltrin N a tur e W alks in the Gila W ilder ness C r aig Martin $18.50 Bill C unnigham and Linda & Ka tie $23 with shipping $23 with shipping Las C r uc es-El P aso A r ea Regnier $8.00 Gr eg Magee $10.00 P olly Burke $21.50

32o z. N algene or 24o z. N-Gen C all f or C olor A v ailability O TER O TEES $15.00 Only $12.00, shipping Malk olm the Bir der Bo y D VD Included A tt endees of the 2005 KiMo e v en t will T hese shirts f ea tur e the NMW A logo r emember this t ouching tale of a y oung bo y on the br east. A v ailable in (01)W hit e , in sear ch of a r ar e bir d in the A r ctic . S iz e XL & (02)N a tur al, S iz e L Only $12.00, shipping Included

“King Ov er Ojit o in L ast Sun ’s Glo w” b y Michelle C hr isman 16x20- Oil on C an v as- fr amed , or iginal oil painting . P r ic e: $1300 New Mexico Wilder ness Al liance P r oc eeds fr om the sale of this pain ting will Wildlands Conference benefit NMW A and our eff orts t o pr ot ect Ojit o and other wild landscapes . “ I r ec all painting this pla ying de Santa Fe the G ypsy Kings v ery loud , as their music r esonat es with the ar ea f or me , sort of a Spanish ho wl, with a st ory t o t ell; and I October 8th paint ed it in a fast and fur ious mood , trying t o c aptur e E l D orado Hotel the ener g y of the plac e and 309 West S an Francisco Street fleeting sunlight that kisses the cliff s at the end of the da y . S anta Fe, NM F or me , these cliff s at Ojit o stand lik e r o y alty , quietly 9 am to 4 pm r uling their kingdom.” The conference will focus on the current issues impacting New UQU N ew Me xic o LB ER A Q NONPROFIT ORG. U U.S. POSTAGE

Wilderness A llianc e E M exico Wilderness, including the

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P.O . Bo x 25464 7

8 Valle Vidal and O tero Mesa.

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A lbuquer que , NM 87125 I PERMIT NO. 426 Space is limited, so please register early. Registration: $40 includes lunch. Please email T isha B roska today at [email protected] to reserve your space or go to www.nmwild.org See for on-line registration. Page 10 for more Information