New Mexico Senators Introduce Legislation to Protect Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks

The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, are the crossroads of the area's diverse historical and natural culture. For nearly a decade, the local community has worked to preserve this special place for future generations.

Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich have introduced legislation to protect the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks as a national monument with wilderness. The bill will preserve natural treasures like the Organ and Sierra de las Uvas Mountains, and historic sites like the Camino Real and Butterfield Stage Coach Trails. It will also boost the local economy through tourism and recreation jobs.

Mike Matz, director of Pew's U.S. Public Lands team, explains why there is such broad support for keeping the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks forever as they are today.