Editor:
It’s important to recognize that ranchers clearly have a vested interest in conservation and sustainability and many take their stewardship very seriously. As the Vice President of Enchanted Circle Trout Unlimited and owner/operator of Red River Anglers custom fly fishing guide service I want ranchers to understand that I want nothing more than to work hand in hand.
I have supported U.S. Sen. Jeff Binagaman’s bill from the start. I am not interested in the negativity of environmental justice and zero grazing politics. I believe the land is there for everyone so every life style will not have to bear the brunt of toxic industry.
For us to progress we need to address these social justice issues of our past. Bridging the persistent gaps between environmental, social and economic concerns is the challenge my generation of thirty-something’s now face.
I understand why ranchers feel resentment toward these outsiders (environmentalists) who are trying to dictate how they should care for the land. Their frustration that their own knowledge seems to be ignored is more than apparent.
Grazing public lands is a large part of the economic sustainability for the communities surrounding the areas outlined by the Rio Grande Del Norte bill. However, it is only one of many industries that rely on the tremendous economic engine that is the Rio Grande Gorge and the land that surrounds it.
The areas nominated for wilderness have long been somewhat de-facto wilderness and the new designation will not bring any significant changes. The development for the purpose of drilling stands to destroy the limited, valuable public grazing land. This bill is protection for everyone.
Sen. Bingaman’s bill does provide protection to ensure traditional activities like cattle grazing, piñon gathering, hunting, fishing and firewood cutting will always be allowed.
Ranchers will always have access to their allotments. Hunting and fishing outfitters will always be able to sell their services to their clients. The local communities will always be able to collect firewood and piñon.
No one will be kicked off the land. It will remain protected so my children can always fish the Rio Grande Gorge and its tributaries.
Ranchers’ children are ensured they can always continue their generational legacy of working the land their families have worked for a hundred or more years.
This bill simply shows that the area around the gorge is valuable, both socially and economically, as it stands.
Truly shouldn’t it always remain that way for all the generations to come?
Greg Scott
Red River