The federal government has opened a 33-day public comment period on rescinding the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. If the Rule goes away, 1.6 million acres of New Mexico’s wildest forests lose the protections that have kept mining, drilling, and industrial logging out for 25 years. The administration says this is about wildfire, but wildfires are four times more likely to start near roads than in roadless areas. The Rule already allows for fire suppression and fuel reduction. This is about opening public lands to extraction.
The Forest Service isn’t holding a single public meeting. So we’re stepping in. New Mexico Wild is partnering with organizations across the state to host our own meetings, giving New Mexicans the opportunity to share their voices. Find an event near you below, learn what’s at stake, and join us in speaking up before the comment period closes.
Curious about Roadless areas across New Mexico? Use this interactive map to explore; areas in yellow represent roadless areas at risk.
Can’t make it to an event? Submit your public comment here before the deadline.