By Hannah Grover
State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard announced Jan. 16 an agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense, New Mexico Land Conservancy to protect 60,000 acres of land in Torrance and Socorro counties for 75 years.
The state trust land is in an area known as Chupadera Mesa, which is near White Sands.
Chupadera Mesa has a long history of use by various cultures over the centuries and includes historical and cultural sites as well as diverse wildlife.
“Protection of Chupadera Mesa isn’t just one of largest land conservation projects in the state, it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the deep respect we have for the cultural heritage embedded in this landscape,” Jonathan Hayden, executive director of the New Mexico Land Conservancy, said in a news release. “By protecting these invaluable resources, we honor the stories and traditions of those who came before us while ensuring that future generations can continue to connect with this land’s rich history. The protection of Chupadera Mesa is truly a win-win-win for national defense, wildlife, and New Mexico’s unique cultural heritage.”
The new agreement—known as a Land Use Restriction or Condition—does more than just protect those historical, cultural and ecological resources. It will also prevent future large developments in the area that could inhibit the Department of Defense’s ability to conduct testing and training missions at White Sands Missile Range.
“This is a great ‘win’ for everyone involved,” Brian Knight, the environmental division chief at White Sands Missile Range, said in a news release. “The execution of this LURC not only protects our State’s cultural and natural resources, but it provides a source of revenue to assist the State Land Office mission and protects critical airspace for the military test and evaluation which is a crucial component of our national defense.”
The State Land Office received $2.8 million as part of the agreement. This money will help public education and other institutions.
“This agreement shows that diverse entities actually can work together to protect our most valuable resources,” Commissioner Garcia Richard said in a news release. The agreement also ensures the U.S. military can continue its work that is vital to keeping all of us safe. As the daughter of a veteran, I’m thrilled that state lands can contribute to our national security while providing a new source of funding for our schools.”
The agreement will not affect existing grazing leases.