BLM proposes reopening Chaco Canyon buffer zone for mineral leasing
Key Questions
What is the BLM proposing for the Chaco Canyon buffer zone?
The agency has proposed reopening the 10-mile buffer for mineral leasing, offering options to keep, reduce, or eliminate existing protections established under the Biden administration.
Why are New Mexico leaders opposing the Chaco Canyon proposal?
The change threatens thousands of un-inventoried cultural and historical sites sacred to pueblos and tribes. The state delegation and Indigenous leaders have strongly condemned the plan.
How can the public participate in the Chaco Canyon decision?
A two-week public comment period is open until July 29 on the three buffer options. Advocates are urging residents to submit feedback before the deadline.
The Trump administration's BLM has proposed reopening the Chaco Canyon buffer zone for mineral leasing, reversing Biden-era protections. The BLM is considering three options: keep, reduce, or eliminate the 10-mile buffer. The cultural and historical stakes are enormous for NM's pueblos and tribes, with thousands of un-inventoried sites. Public comment is open until July 29, making this a timely and actionable issue for residents. NM delegation and Indigenous leaders have voiced strong opposition.