A Canadian company is seeking federal approval to begin exploratory uranium drilling in the Carson National Forest near Canjilon. According to a March 25 report from Source New Mexico, Gamma Resources Ltd. submitted a notice of intent proposing up to 12 exploratory boreholes, each up to 500 feet deep, in northern New Mexico. Carson National Forest spokesperson Zach Behrens told Source New Mexico that no drilling can begin unless and until the required environmental review is completed.
That means this is the moment for the public to speak up.
This proposal is still at an early stage, but early stages matter. Once a project begins moving through the federal review process, public attention and public comment can shape how seriously impacts are studied, how broadly communities are consulted, and whether decision-makers understand the level of concern on the ground. Source New Mexico’s reporting makes clear that this is not a finished decision. It is a live proposal now before the Forest Service.
The landscapes around Canjilon and the greater Chama Basin are too important to treat lightly. These are public lands that support wildlife, watersheds, outdoor recreation, working lands, and communities with deep cultural and historical ties to place. A proposal involving uranium exploration deserves rigorous scrutiny, full transparency, and meaningful opportunities for public input.
Concern is already building locally. In a follow-up report published April 1, Source New Mexico reported that a Northern New Mexico conservation district board member called for a full environmental review before the Forest Service considers approving what could become the first new uranium operation in the region in decades.
We agree.
Carson National Forest leadership should require a full environmental review, robust public notice, and meaningful consultation with affected communities before any decision is made on this proposal. That includes hearing from local residents, acequia communities, tribal nations, land grant heirs, grazing permittees, conservation stakeholders, and anyone concerned about impacts to water, wildlife, cultural resources, and community health.
Take Action
Please send a respectful message to Carson National Forest Public Affairs Officer Zach Behrens and ask that your comment be shared with Forest leadership and the appropriate decision-makers.
Zach Behrens
Public Affairs Officer
Forest Service, Carson National Forest
208 Cruz Alta Rd.
Taos, NM 87571
575-758-6303
[email protected]
When you write, ask for:
- a full environmental review
- meaningful public notice and public comment
- consultation with affected local communities and stakeholders
- strong protections for water, wildlife, cultural resources, and public health
Most importantly, personalize your message. Explain why this landscape matters to you. Personal comments are more effective than generic form letters.
According to Source New Mexico’s March 25 reporting, this proposal would involve up to 12 boreholes up to 500 feet deep near Canjilon, but no drilling can begin unless environmental review is completed. That makes public engagement right now especially important.
This is a moment to speak clearly, early, and together for the future of Northern New Mexico’s lands and waters.
