#5: Pecos River, NM
Threat: MiningA proposed mining project would harm over 5,000 acres of critical habitat along the Pecos River.
Pecos River | Photo courtesy of CAVU
The Pecos River and its waters are considered sacred to the Pecos, Jemez and Tesuque Pueblo peoples. With its vibrant, millennia-old ties to traditional Indigenous and historic Spanish communities, the river’s remarkable cultural history is integrally linked to New Mexico’s identity and future. A proposed hard rock mine could adversely impact over 5,000 acres of critical subalpine wildlife habitat and the river’s life-giving clean water. Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham has publicly opposed the mine. The New Mexico Mining and Minerals Division must deny the exploratory mining application, the U.S. Forest Service must adequately assess the environmental impacts of the mining proposal, and Congress must pass legislation to permanently protect this special place for communities today and for generations to come.
American Rivers appreciates the collaboration and efforts of our partners:
- Upper Pecos Watershed Association
- NM Acequia Commission & Local Organic Farmers
- Jemez/Pecos Pueblo
- New Mexico Wild
- Amigos Bravos
- Climate Advocates Voces Unidas
