BLM seeks input on proposed land exchange with New Mexico

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on a proposed land exchange between the BLM and the New Mexico State Land Office. As directed through the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act, up to 76,000 acres of federal lands and minerals managed by the BLM in New Mexico would be exchanged for approximately 76,000 acres of state lands and minerals in and around the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.

The exchange would consolidate land ownership for both agencies, bring state mineral interests and valuable conservation and recreation lands within and near the Monument into federal ownership, and place lands with revenue-producing potential into state ownership for the benefit of New Mexico’s public schools and other public beneficiaries. The federal and non-federal lands being considered for exchange are mostly in Doña Ana, Grant, and Luna counties, with some parcels in Hidalgo County in southwest New Mexico.

Interested parties may submit comments, including information concerning liens, encumbrances, or other claims relating to the lands being considered for exchange, to BLM Realty Specialist Treaver Ashby, Attn: Dingell Act Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument State Land Exchange, 1800 Marquess Street, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005. An environmental analysis and other required resource reports will be prepared to identify potential environmental impacts of the proposed exchange.

Comments may be submitted via the BLM National NEPA Register (preferred), or delivered to BLM Las Cruces District Office, Attn: Dingell Act Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument State Land Exchange, 1800 Marquess Street, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005. The comment period closes Dec. 22, 2024.

For more information, please contact Treaver Ashby at tashby@blm.gov or 575-525-4304.