The proposed Mimbres Peaks National Monument would add protections for lands overseen by the Bureau of Land Management in Luna County, New Mexico near the city of Deming. The collaborative effort is locally-led by elected leaders, business owners, economic development advocates, hunters, youth leaders, conservationists, and students. The proposal would protect approximately 245,000 acres in an area that contains documented cultural and historic sites that continue to hold importance to modern day Tribes and Pueblos, and also provides diverse outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting, hiking, equestrian use, biking, camping, picnicking, photography, and more. According to a recent independent economic analysis, the proposal would bring a much needed boost to the area, broadening access to nature and creating new jobs and revenue through increased visitation.

Hear from a father and son who know and love this region and want to see it protected: Ray Trejo works for New Mexico Wildlife Federation and is currently a Luna County Commissioner. BJ Trejo lives in Deming and is working as an organizer for New Mexico Wilderness Alliance. He is also Ray’s son.

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• DOD, Interagency Partners Designate 5 New Sentinel Landscapes – U.S. Department of Defense
  
• Sign the petition to support the proposed Mimbres Peaks National Monument
  
• Proposed national monument would be economic boon for area – Las Cruces Sun News
  
• New Polling Confirms Strong Majority Support for an Owyhee Canyonlands National Monument – Protect the Owyhee
  
• Owyhee Video Postcard – Center for Western Priorities
  

Hosts: Kate Groetzinger & Aaron Weiss 

Feedback: podcast@westernpriorities.org

Music: Purple Planet

Featured image: Florida Mountains in the proposed Mimbres Peaks National Monument

The post Protecting the Mimbres Peaks in Southern New Mexico appeared first on Center for Western Priorities.