Critics: Halt Chaco-area drilling plan

Environmentalists want federal land managers to suspend efforts to amend a plan that would guide oil and gas development and other activities near Chaco Culture National Historical Park.

They sent a letter Thursday to Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, saying the coronavirus pandemic has prevented meaningful in-person consultation with Native American tribes and others who would be affected by the decision.

Officials held five virtual public meetings earlier this year and extended the public comment period to Sept. 25. Four more meetings were held in August, but critics say those too were inadequate.

A coalition of more than 50 groups signed the letter. They argue that low-income and minority communities will be disproportionately harmed as they are located on the front lines of oil and gas development in the San Juan Basin.

“Environmental justice must be served,” the groups said in the letter. “In the midst of the public health and economic emergency caused by the COVID-19 crisis, we urge you to protect the most vulnerable New Mexicans from the dangers and insecurity that result from the public health crisis, not take advantage of our inability to engage in … decision making.”

Legislation making federal land within a 10-mile radius of the park off-limits is pending in Congress.

New Mexico pueblos have been outspoken about halting drilling in the area, saying culturally significant sites would be at risk.