NM Government leaders respond to Secretary Zinke’s report on monument

Several government officials and community leaders expressed their frustration with Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke’s report on national monuments Thursday.

“For this report to be put out is amateurish at best,” said Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima. “I would expect more from our federal government. I think this is just the reason why people don’t have faith in their government – because of reports like this from people who hold high office.”

Zinke’s report to President Trump – due Thursday – gave no conclusive answer or hint regarding the future size of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The current monument rests at nearly 497,000 acres. U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce has called to reduce that by close to 90%.

The Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument near Las Cruces has been under review since President Donald Trump issued a review of monuments created under the Antiquities Act of 1906, which grants places important to the U.S.’ military history federal recognition.

While there was no definitive answer in Zinke’s report, local leaders warned that change could come.

“Frankly, some of our worst fears about this process have been confirmed,” said N.M. Senator Jeff Steinborn, representing District 36. “The president predicated this entire review process on listening to local voices and getting on the ground and looking at local resources. And it”s clear by looking at the summary that’s been issued today… they have done neither.”

“We as a community cannot express the importance of keeping intact our Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument,” said Mesilla Mayor Nora Barraza.