Rep. Lujan Grisham Applauds U.S. Senate Hearing on Bill to Protect Greater Chaco Canyon

Rep. Lujan Grisham Applauds U.S. Senate Hearing on Bill to Protect Greater Chaco Canyon

ALBUQUERQUE, NM –Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham (NM-01) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining held a hearing on the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act (S. 2907), which was introduced by Senators Tom Udall (D-NM) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).  This legislation would withdraw federal lands located within the Chaco Protection Zone around Chaco Canyon from oil and gas development.  

"I applaud Senator Udall and Heinrich’s leadership on moving forward legislation to protect the culturally and environmentally sensitive areas within Chaco Canyon,” said Rep. Lujan Grisham. “They have truly listened to the will of New Mexicans, especially Tribal Communities, who have been vocal about preserving the countless sacred sites and artifacts that reflect the culture and ancestry of the native people who once lived in this area. Oil and gas exploration in these areas would have disastrous consequences and undercut our obligation to protect this unique landscape, fragile structures, and significant artifacts for future generations. That is why passing Senator Udall and Heinrich’s legislation to preserve New Mexico's heritage and history is so important."

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