BLM to host public meeting on recreation potential of Pecos River waterfront acquisition
BLM Roswell Field Office
2909 West Second St.
Roswell, NM 88201
United States
Event Description
ROSWELL, N.M. – The Bureau of Land Management has acquired a 240-acre tract of new public lands seven miles east of Roswell in Chaves County. The acquisition connects hundreds of acres of adjacent public lands with the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
The BLM intends to build local partnerships to plan and develop the site for public benefit. The BLM will manage the area under the 1997 Roswell Resource Management Plan and a future long-term, site-specific plan. The agency will host a public meeting about the area’s recreation development potential at 6 p.m. on Aug. 18 at the Roswell Field Office, 2909 West Second St., Roswell, N.M.
“This property presents an opportunity to enhance outdoor recreation in the Pecos Valley, and we encourage the public to participate in plans to develop the area,” said BLM Roswell Field Manager Chuck Schmidt. “This project emphasizes the Department of the Interior’s historic commitment to expand outdoor recreation on public lands and waters, support rural economies and communities, and enhance American quality of life.”
This acquisition project would not have been possible without the invaluable assistance of The Conservation Fund and money provided by the Land and Water Conservation Fund to purchase the land.
“The Conservation Fund is proud to have partnered with the BLM to protect more than half a mile of riverway along the Pecos River — a vital part of New Mexico’s natural heritage,” said Kirste Kowalsky, southwest region field representative at The Conservation Fund. “The project helps to create a stronger conservation corridor for one of the most important waterways in the Southwest, with benefits that enhance public recreation, water access, and the health of a critical desert-river ecosystem. By preserving this landscape today, we’re ensuring a more resilient future for both wildlife and people across the region.”
The area is accessible from U.S. Highway 380 and includes more than half a mile of shoreline along the Pecos River. The area can be developed for recreation purposes with new public access to the river and consistent water flow year-round.
Fishing enthusiasts will have access to a warm water fishery with native fish and aquatic species including catfish, bass, longnose gar, and sunfish. The area can also be developed for hiking trails, mountain biking, and bird watching across unique terrain features and open spaces close to the city. Off-road vehicle use will not be permitted in the area.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.