New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard today announced that she has entered into a partnership with the United States Department of Defense and the New Mexico Land Conservancy to protect over 60,000 acres of state trust land covering portions of Socorro and Torrance Counties in the White Sands region known as Chupadera Mesa. The State Land Office received $2.8 million to benefit public education and other institutions in New Mexico under the agreement.
In addition to protecting cultural and biological resources, the agreement helps the Department of Defense with military readiness, preventing future large developments that might inhibit the Department’s testing and training missions at the nearby White Sands Missile Range. The agreement is for a period of 75 years.
“This agreement shows that diverse entities actually can work together to protect our most valuable resources,” said Commissioner Garcia Richard. The agreement also ensures the U.S. military can continue its work that is vital to keeping all of us safe. As the daughter of a veteran, I’m thrilled that state lands can contribute to our national security while providing a new source of funding for our schools.”
The agreement – known as a Land Use Restriction or Condition (LURC) – does not affect current grazing leases on the land, preserving the agricultural values of the region moving forward.
Chupadera Mesa has been occupied by various peoples for centuries. The landscape includes many historical and cultural sites, diverse wildlife and a vibrant ecosystem.
Quotes from DOD, NM Land Conservancy:
“This is a great ‘win’ for everyone involved,” said Brian Knight, Environmental Division Chief at White Sands Missile Range. “The execution of this LURC not only protects our State’s cultural and natural resources, but it provides a source of revenue to assist the State Land Office mission and protects critical airspace for the military test and evaluation which is a crucial component of our national defense.”
“Protection of Chupadera Mesa isn’t just one of largest land conservation projects in the state, it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the deep respect we have for the cultural heritage embedded in this landscape,” said Jonathan Hayden, Executive Director of the New Mexico Land Conservancy. “By protecting these invaluable resources, we honor the stories and traditions of those who came before us while ensuring that future generations can continue to connect with this land’s rich history. The protection of Chupadera Mesa is truly a win-win-win for national defense, wildlife, and New Mexico’s unique cultural heritage.”
Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard was first elected by New Mexico voters to lead the State Land Office in 2018. Since she took office in January 2019, the agency has raised more than $11 billion for New Mexico public schools, hospitals, and universities. Over 13 million acres of state trust land are leased for a variety of uses, including ranching and farming, renewable energy, business development, mineral development, and outdoor recreation. The State Land Office has a dual mandate to use state trust land to financially support vital public institutions, while simultaneously working to protect the land for future generations.
