Preserving NM In the News

    FORMER SECRETARY of Interior Stewart Udall expressed well the value of trails to the nation in his commentary, "Where Trails Lead: Our Heritage."
    Trails celebrate our culture and history and bring people closer to nature. In New Mexico, with our large outdoor culture, trails are particularly important as evidenced by the estimated 40 percent of the population who partake in some form of trail-related activity every year.
    From the Continental Divide Trail to the Santa Fe Trail, there is no shortage of great trails in New Mexico. The lesser known Rio Grande Trail, which will run alongside the Rio Grande through New Mexico, has the potential to join their ranks. Efforts to build this multi-use trail are being concentrated in the southern part of the state from Bernalillo to Sunland Park, where basic infrastructure already exists.
    The biggest obstacle to trail development so far has been the lack of funding. While the State Parks Department, which is overseeing trail development, has enough money to complete the planning study along the proposed route, there is little money with which to begin developing the trail. It is vital that additional funding be provided if the trail is to be realized.
    The Rio Grande Trail has the potential to benefit tourism, recreation and conservation across the state. Hundreds of miles of new trail will be available for cyclists, hikers and runners to explore and enjoy. The trail will be built to the highest environmental standards— planning mindful of sensitive riparian areas recognized for river restoration potential.
    There will be opportunities for historical and environmental education along the trail, bringing people in touch with nature and increasing awareness about the problems facing one of New Mexico's most important natural treasures: the Rio Grande.
    The trail has already generated popular support in the state Legislature. Last session, a joint House and Senate memorial was passed in support of completing the Rio Grande Trail. During the upcoming session, the governor and legislators have a great opportunity to allocate funding for a truly visionary trail for New Mexico.
    RANDALL COLEMAN
    Environment New Mexico, Albuquerque