The new year has brought new obstacles in our efforts ensure public access to New Mexico's river and streams. On the last day of 2019, Joanna Prukop, the former NM Game Commission Chair, was informed by the Governor she would not be reappointed to her position. Former Chairwoman Prukop had added the stream access issue to last December's commission agenda. The Governor's office cited "policy and style" differences as the main influences of the Governors decision.

The commission will meet again this Friday, January 17^th in Las Cruces. While the stream access issue is not on the agenda, there will be boater representation from the Adobe Whitewater Club, American Canoe Association, NM Outfitters and Guides, as well as strong representation from hunters and anglers at the request of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation to make oral statements during the general comment period. In addition, the Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project put out an invitation to all who support the protection of public lands and waters for all to use on KRWG Public Media of New Mexico.

American Whitewater is in continued communication with a strong coalition of New Mexico based boaters, recreationists, and conservation groups dedicated to seeing this issue through. We will be sure to keep you updated as things progress. Check out New Mexico Wildlife Federation's stream access library for lots of great background documents as well as comment letters from our coalition organizations. Please contact hattie@americanwhitewater.org for more information or to get involved. 

Image Credit: Scott Carpenter