New Mexico has a new national monument that will put the unique and spectacular desert landscapes of Southern New Mexico on recreation maps around the world.
The creation of the national monument finally puts into motion a plan that began with the people of Southern New Mexico, who wanted to ensure these special places would continue to be available for local families and visitors to hike, hunt, and learn from the hundreds of significant historic sites throughout the area for generations to come. It will be a terrific attraction for visitors and sportsmen, creating jobs and bringing in millions of dollars in tourism revenue.
I was honored to join Senator Heinrich, community leaders from New Mexico, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, and President Barack Obama for the proclamation signing ceremony officially establishing the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. For video of the event, visit http://www.senate.gov/cgi-bin/exitmsg?url=http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/2014/05/21/president-obama-designates-organ-mountains-desert-peaks-national-m
I was also proud to welcome Secretary Jewell to Southern New Mexico earlier this year for a tour of the proposed monument and a public meeting in Las Cruces, where hundreds of supporters gathered to show the strong grassroots effort for this monument.
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks Conservation Act, which Senator Heinrich and I introduced in Congress , grew out of the community's dedication and enthusiasm for this special land, and I'm pleased that with the monument designation, we'll be able to conserve the Organ Mountains and Desert Peaks while also preserving access to existing grazing, hunting and other activities.
Most importantly, I'm excited about the new visitors and business opportunities that will come as a result, generating more than $7 million in new economic activity every year.
This monument is a reality because you spoke up and worked hard to get it done, and I'm proud of your historic accomplishment.
This monument is a reality because you spoke up and worked hard to get it done, and I'm proud of your historic accomplishment.
