Interior Department Takes Steps to Protect Sacred, Sensitive Lands in New Mexico

Mineral withdrawal near Placitas would protect Tribal sites, boost local recreation opportunities

WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior today announced a proposal by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to protect more than 4,000 acres within the Placitas area in Sandoval County, New Mexico, to safeguard sacred Tribal lands, boost important local recreation opportunities, and support wildlife habitat connectivity. The proposed mineral withdrawal would prevent new mining claims and oil and gas development in the area for a 50-year period, subject to valid and existing rights.