Protect Chaco From Unnecessary Oil and Gas Development

I am writing as a constituent concerned about preserving our nation's heritage, particularly the Chaco Culture National Historical Park. I urge you to oppose H.R. 4374, the Energy Opportunities for All Act, which threatens the protections under Public Land Order No. 7923 for the Greater Chaco Region in New Mexico. The Chaco Culture National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents a significant part of our cultural and religious history, dating back to AD 850-1150. The recent PLO 7923, signed by Secretary Haaland, protects over 4,700 sites within a 10-mile buffer around the Park from new oil and gas development for 20 years, crucial for the cultural integrity of regional Tribal communities. The proposed area for withdrawal, already heavily leased for oil and gas, allows existing production to continue. The BLM's analysis indicates a modest 2.5 percent decrease in oil production in the San Juan Basin, with significant benefits to local communities' health and quality of life. PLO 7923's development followed nearly a decade of engagement with Tribal Nations and local communities. Entities like the All Pueblo Council of Governors and the Navajo Nation have advocated for these protections due to the area's immense cultural significance. The protections under PLO 7923 respond to community calls for preserving the cultural landscape and improving health and safety. They provide crucial benefits against the disturbances of oil and gas development. H.R. 4374 risks undermining these protections, endangering this irreplaceable landscape. As your constituent, I urge you to support the preservation efforts by opposing H.R. 4374 and endorsing the protective measures under PLO 7923 for the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area. Thank you for considering this crucial issue, and I await your response.