Groups want hearing on wilderness bill
Updated: Wednesday, 25 Nov 2009, 2:47 PM MST
Published : Wednesday, 25 Nov 2009, 2:47 PM MST
LAS CRUCES (AP) - A group opposed to a federal wilderness bill for southwestern Doña Ana County has outlined alternatives to the proposal while asking New Mexico's senators to hold a field hearing locally about the matter.
The group includes ranchers, off-road vehicle users, the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce and the Elephant Butte Irrigation District.
They asked senators to remove the land from consideration for wilderness and instead grant other less-restrictive designations.
The bill would loosen restrictions on 16,350 acres along the southern border that are designated a Wilderness Study Area.
Opponents say a ban against mechanized travel in the restricted area would keep border agents from adequately patrolling the area.
The Obama administration has thrown its backing behind the bill.
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Information from: Las Cruces Sun-News
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