Taos council backs resolution opposing sale or transfer of public lands

The Town of Taos Council on July 22 adopted Resolution 25‑34, a statement urging continued federal management and stewardship of public lands and opposing efforts to transfer or sell public federal lands.

Council Member Fernandez introduced the resolution and highlighted the economic and cultural importance of public lands in Taos County, noting outdoor recreation supports billions statewide and that federal management helps address wildfire, watershed protection and habitat conservation. Fernandez said public lands include headwaters and acequia‑fed streams and that privatization would threaten access and cultural uses.

The resolution cites the role of federal agencies (U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management) in managing public lands for multiple uses, and urges the New Mexico congressional delegation and federal land managers to oppose legislation that would negatively impact public lands. Council discussion was supportive; a council member called the resolution a chance to "send that off to some powers higher than us."

Vote: A motion to approve Resolution 25‑34 passed on roll call with the council recorded as voting yes. The clerk will forward copies to the congressional delegation, the Governor's office and relevant federal agencies as the resolution directs.

Context: Councilors noted the resolution responds to proposals seen in other jurisdictions to transfer federal lands and cited local reliance on outdoor recreation and federal land uses, including grazing, hunting, fishing and firewood collection.