Courtesy photo

STATE News:

CANJILON — U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led a community conversation in Canjilon with community members, ranchers, farmers, acequia members, Tribal leaders, and Land Grant Members regarding the proposal of uranium drilling and mineral development in the region by the Canadian-based uranium company, Gamma Resources Ltd. Sen.Luján led the N.M. Delegation in writing to Carson National Forest Supervisor James Duran expressing strong opposition to a proposal to conduct uranium drilling and plans to introduce legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from all forms of mineral entry. 

In Canjilon, Sen. Luján convened local, state, and Tribal officials, community members, ranchers, farmers, acequia members and Land Grant Members to hear their concerns regarding the uranium drilling and mineral development proposal in the region. During the meeting, Sen. Luján listened to the concerns of local community members and discussed legislation he plans to introduce that would withdraw the Chama Watershed from mineral extraction. Additionally, Sen. Luján took a tour of the area that is being proposed for uranium drilling and mineral development in the region.

“The communities of the Chama Valley have tended this watershed for generations and we must ensure it remains protected for generations to come,” Sen. Luján said. “Here in Canjilon, I’m grateful to the local community members who came together for an informative discussion about the harms this uranium drilling proposal would bring and the impacts it would have on the region. These conversations will help guide the legislation I plan to introduce to permanently withdraw the watershed from mineral development. Together, we will continue fighting to protect our lands and waters.”

Afterwards, in Chama, Sen. Luján met with the Mayor of the Village of Chama, Ernest E. Vigil, and discussed local water issues and priorities to help the Village of Chama. Following the meeting, Sen. Luján visited the owners of Tierra Wools to discuss their business and challenges they are facing because of President Trump’s policies, including sweeping tariffs. During the visit, Sen. Luján also engaged in conversations with the owners of Tierra Wools regarding concerns of uranium drilling and mineral development in the region.

“For decades, Tierra Wools have raised sheep here in the Chama Valley, caring for the land and supporting local economies,” Sen. Luján said. “It was an honor to visit the Tierra Wools store and meet with Molly and Antonio to discuss their business and the importance of protecting the Chama watershed from mineral development. Businesses like Tierra Wools play a critical role in supporting local economies, and I’ll continue to fight in Washington to deliver for our small businesses.”

Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo