Commissioners ask Upper Chama Soil & Water to oppose uranium exploration

Commissioner Camilla Bustamante asked the board to send a letter expressing opposition to proposed uranium exploration and potential mining in the Upper Chama Basin, stressing risks to the Chama River and downstream users. Bustamante said exploration techniques can leave behind chemicals and contaminants and highlighted the basin's connection to Abiquiu Lake and the San Juan–Chama water supply.

Commissioner Adam Johnson and others voiced support for the letter and a friendly amendment to CC counties and soil and water districts along the Rio Grande downstream to Brownsville, Texas. The board approved the letter with the expanded cc list. Chair Justin Green said the action will help raise awareness among downstream counties and federal representatives and that the county will circulate the letter promptly.