To the editor

Protecting the outdoors

The Land and Water Conservation Fund has long protected the places and recreation opportunities that define life in southern New Mexico. From boat ramps at Elephant Butte to rivers where native Gila trout swim, to local parks and wildlife habitat.

LWCF supports projects that strengthen both our outdoor heritage and local economies. As you know, since the onset of COVID six years ago, the public has increasingly gravitated to our public lands seeking outdoor recreational experiences.

In New Mexico, LWCF has delivered real results, providing $327.8 million in funding over the years. The Gila National Forest has received more than $6 million to improve public access and recreation infrastructure, while Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park stands as another local success.

Nationwide, LWCF has invested more than $16 billion in every county, making it one of America’s most effective bipartisan conservation tools. The Great American Outdoors Act, signed in 2020, permanently funds LWCF at $900 million annually using offshore energy revenues — ensuring stability without relying on taxpayer dollars.

Yet the program is not being fully implemented as intended. Efforts to divert funding, restrict the program, and delays in releasing required project lists have created bottlenecks that stall critical access and conservation projects.

When that happens, communities like ours lose economic benefits and outdoor opportunities.

LWCF works. Representative Gabe Vasquez and New Mexico’s congressional delegation should ensure it is implemented as Congress intended so projects in our state can move forward without unnecessary delay.

Our outdoor traditions — and the communities that depend on them — deserve nothing less.

Robert Silver

Las Cruces