County Managers United in the Heritage Waters Coalition's Mission to Safeguard Southwest New Mexico's Rivers

Silver City, New Mexico (August 2, 2023) - The County Managers of Catron, Hidalgo, Sierra, and Socorro Counties have joined forces in a unified stance to protect the invaluable waterways of Southwest New Mexico. Drew Lesofski, Executive Director of the Heritage Waters Coalition, emphasized their collective support for urging the Gila Forest Wild and Scenic River recommendations to be returned to the Gila Forest Supervisor for thorough consideration. The counties sent a joint letter to Homer Wilkes, Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment, expressing their concerns.

“The Heritage Waters Coalition, is proud to stand with these County Managers in support of responsible management practices, carefully balancing environmental preservation with the vital needs of our communities. Together, we have engaged in critical discussions with the USFS Gila Forest Division and Gila Forest Supervisor, focusing on potential negative economic impacts on irrigators, cattle growers, and private property owners that could result from the proposed Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (WSRA) management of these river segments. Until Congress acts to either designate or release the river segments from the interim management criteria, our coalition believes it is crucial to address these concerns,” said Lesofski.

The Heritage Waters Coalition asserts that the planned designations of these rivers are based on subjective personal opinions rather than objective historical facts or adherence to the criteria outlined in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Lesofski emphasized, "It is our collective belief that New Mexico has diligently managed these rivers for generations, ensuring their availability for diverse uses, including conservation and agriculture. Our heritage and economy have relied on responsible agricultural practices for over 135 years, evolving to be more water-efficient and conservation-minded than ever before. Proper management of these rivers is essential for their future and the sustenance of our agricultural operations."

The County Managers express their gratitude for the attention given to this matter and extend their willingness to collaborate with relevant offices and the Gila National Forest in resolving these issues for the betterment of the entire community.

For media inquiries and further information about the Heritage Waters Coalition, please visit www.heritagewaters.org

#