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Today, a Civil War era law that's still on the books gives the mining of gold, uranium and other "hardrock" minerals priority status on our public lands regardless of its impact on conservation and recreation. It permits mining companies to take precious metals virtually for free.  And, it allows claimholders to purchase public land at the rock bottom price of $5 an acre or less.

Mining is a messy business.  The federal government estimates that hardrock mining has degraded approximately 40% of western watersheds that will cost at least $50 billion to clean up. Here in New Mexico there are an estimated 15,000 abandoned mines.

Fortunately, New Mexican's can play a pivitol role in reforming this antiquated law. Our two senators, Jeff Bingaman and Pete Domenici serve as the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Energy Committee and they are in the process of holding hearings on reforming the 1872 Mining Law. Make your voice heard NOW!