The Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday supporting continued federal stewardship of public lands in the county and across New Mexico.
The resolution, introduced Oct. 14 and approved Oct. 28, asks New Mexico’s congressional delegation to oppose federal legislation that would weaken public land protections, Commission Chair Eric Olivas said.
“This resolution is in response to the current federal government discussions of the sale or transfer of federal land for the benefit of billionaire oligarchs,” Olivas said in a statement.
Commission Chair Olivas and Commissioner Barbara Baca presented the resolution, which calls on Congress to protect the Antiquities Act and preserve existing national monument areas.
Approximately 21% of New Mexico’s land is federally owned public land, including the Sandia Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest and Petroglyph National Monument, according to the resolution. These areas provide wildlife habitats, recreational spaces and grazing opportunities.
The outdoor recreation industry generates $3.2 billion in value-added income and supports 29,182 jobs in the state, according to the resolution.
“We are opposed to any efforts to sell, transfer, or dispose of any of our public lands,” Olivas said.
The resolution emphasizes multiple-use land management and supports increased federal collaboration with local governments, tribal nations and community groups.
“New Mexicans have long cherished the opportunity for outdoor recreational activity including fishing, camping, skiing, hiking, hunting and biking,” Baca said in a statement. “Public lands are integrated into our heritage and substantially contribute in many ways to the beauty of our state.”
Michael Casaus, The Wilderness Society New Mexico state director, praised the commission’s action.
“Public lands are a cornerstone of our communities and our way of life, but they are under attack by an administration that values profit over public benefit,” Casaus said.
Jesse Deubel, New Mexico Wildlife Federation executive director, said the resolution demonstrates broad support for public lands.
“Across lived experiences and the political spectrum, one thing unites us: our shared love for public lands,” Deubel said.
