The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Wild and Scenic Rivers Act

Thank Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich

Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich have advanced legislation this week during a hearing in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would designate sections of the Gila and San Francisco Rivers and their tributaries as Wild and Scenic. The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act permanently protects 446 miles of these rivers in their free-flowing condition.

The Senators continue to show outstanding leadership in preserving New Mexico’s most critical natural infrastructure and ensuring that future generations will benefit from our incredible lands and waters.

Take a moment now to thank the Senators for taking steps to preserve these special rivers for future generations.

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This legislation was introduced after years of consultations from community members from every corner of Southwest New Mexico, including tribal representatives, private property owners, business owners, ranchers, sportsmen, faith leaders, land managers, and conservationists. In an effort to leave no stone unturned, the Senators gave community members an opportunity to submit comments and suggestions for the legislation during a public comment period hosted earlier this year. During that process, New Mexicans made their opinions heard loud and clear that these rivers need protection. A poll conducted near the end of 2019 found that 76% of New Mexico voters statewide support legislation to designate these rivers as Wild and Scenic. The Senators listened and delivered.

Senators Udall and Heinrich should be applauded for their efforts to protect New Mexico’s rivers and public lands.

Please send a message to these leaders thanking them for introducing legislation to designate the Gila and San Francisco Rivers as Wild and Scenic!