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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/01/new-mexico-wolf-recovery-efforts-criticized-population-growth-slows-endangered-species/7219734001/
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Wolf recovery efforts in New Mexico criticized as population growth slows
While federal wildlife managers reported Mexican wolf populations continued to grow last year in southern New Mexico, environmental groups were critical of government agencies they said had so far allowed the species to move closer to extinction.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Wednesday issued its latest population count for 2021, finding the population in New Mexico and Arizona climbed by 5 percent for a total of 196 wolves.
The FWS found 112 wolves in New Mexico and 84 in Arizona, compared with a total of 186 found in 2020.
More:Feds will not protect imperiled native Pecos River turtle after decades of debate
About 13 percent, 25 wolves, reportedly died throughout the year, records show.
Both state and national environmental groups argued this growth rate was slower than past years, and the federal government should do more to save the wolf, known locally in Spanish as lobo, from dying out.
“The disappointing lack of significant growth is a sign that this recovery paradigm is not working,” said Chris Smith, southwest wildlife advocate for WildEarth Guardians. “Lobos need better protection and more room to roam and re-establish themselves. U.S. Fish and Wildlife continues to flout the science and bow to political pressure.”
More:New Mexico lawmakers call on feds to save endangered species, align with Biden's 30x30 plan
But Brady McGee, wolf recovery coordinator with the FWS touted the wolf’s continued recovery, pointing to positive annual growth in recent years.
The agency explained the animal’s growth rate declined last year because less pups were available for introduction into the wild.
“We are happy to see the wild population of Mexican wolves continue to grow year after year,” McGee said. “The Service and our partners remain focused on recovery through improving the genetic health of the wild population and reducing threats, while also working to minimize conflicts with livestock.”
More:New Mexico congresspeople help push bill to fund wildlife recovery through U.S. House
The FWS also reported at least 45 packs, groups of two or more wolves that maintain an established territory, were documented by end of last year, with 28 in New Mexico and 17 in Arizona.
At least 144 pups were born in 2021, per the report, with 56 – or 38 percent – surviving to the end of the year.
About half of wolf pups survive the year on average, the report read.
More:Feds release plan to restore rare New Mexico mouse after years of debate with landowners
Twenty-five breeding pairs, 13 in New Mexico and 12 in Arizona, were reported by the FWS last year, compared with 20 in 2020.
Federal managers had 92 wolves, about 47 percent of the total population, outfitted with radio collars that use satellites to track their movement.
Last year, the FWS reported it placed 22 captive-born wolves into the seven wild dens through “cross-fostering” and worked with Mexican officials to release four adult wolves in that country.
More:Carlsbad Caverns' bat guano mining history revealed by explosive removal from Ogle Cave
Sandy Bahr with the Sierra Club’s Grand Canyon Chapter said the FWS’ work was inadequate to protect the wolf, pointing the slowing population growth rate, and calling on the agency to begin introducing fully-bonded packs to ensure greater survival.
“They need to immediately implement plans to release well-bonded packs versus relying on cross-fostering of pups to recover this population of highly endangered wolves,” Bahr said. “We need more wild wolves in more places in the Southwest to ensure their sustained recovery.”
Michael Robinson with the Center for Biological Diversity, based in Silver City, said cross-fostering led to less genetic diversity which he said was tied to higher death rates.
More:Tiny New Mexico river fish deemed 'endangered' by feds despite State's opposition
“It’s worrisome that so little’s known about why Mexican wolf population growth is slowing,” he said. “I’m concerned that high pup mortality is part of the problem. Rather than putting pups into unrelated wolves’ dens, moms, dads and pups should all begin new lives in the wild together.”
The Center also pointed to the threat of illegal killings by landowners, mostly within the southwest New Mexico agriculture industry.
In the early 20th Century, the U.S. government began killing the wolves to support farmers and rancher, a practice that ended when protections were enacted in 1973 as the Endangered Species Act was signed into law and the wolf was listed as endangered in 1976.
More:Here's how the oil and gas industry could help save a nearly-extinct bird in New Mexico
Robinson pointed to a 2021 federal court order resulting from a lawsuit filed by the Center against the Department of the Interior that called on the FWS to develop a plan to prevent such killings.
“Even though the wolves show grit, determination and intelligence, that may not be enough to save them,” he said. “I’m afraid that without a more serious federal commitment to science-based management, wolf numbers will stagnate and genetic problems will multiply.”
New Mexico Rep. Rebecca Dow of Truth or Consequences, also a Republican candidate for governor in the 2022 election, criticized the FWS for “mismanagement” of wolf populations resulting in deaths to local livestock.
More:Looking back: Federal actions in 2021 could save New Mexico's rarest species
She said the federal government should prevent wolves from interacting with cattle herds in the area, and compensate ranchers for any lost to wolf attacks.
“Ranching is a way of life in our district and the release of these wolves without proper management is taking away from our community’s right to earn a living,” Dow said in a statement.
“The feds need to take responsibility and allow for non-lethal and humane relocation of the problem wolves, additionally these ranchers deserve compensation for their loss in cattle."
“Out here in the boothill, there are not many options to make a living and the folks who choose to ranch, work extremely hard to provide for themselves and the agricultural economy.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/04/01/cannabis-related-terms-jargon-for-those-new-to-weed-world/7218251001/
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New to cannabis culture? Here are some terms to know to help navigate world of weed
For the curious user or the interested conversationalist, below is a list of common and insider terms used in relation to cannabis.
Prerolls
A pre-rolled cannabis cigarette prepared either by a vendor or dispensary and which is consumer ready.
Pre-pack
A dispensary's process of pre-packaging cannabis for faster customer checkout experiences.
Tincture
An infusion made by combining cannabis and alchol, often used for medicinal purposes and taken orally which contain high concentrations of THC and CBD.
Vape
A smoking device which heats the product to allow concentration int a vapor so it may be smoked.
Rosin
An extract product which is the result of heat and pressure applied to a flower in order to extract sap.
Hybrid
An intentional crossbreeding of plant to extract the desired characteristics of cannabis plants, often done to create a certain flavor profile or efficacy impact.
Sativa vs. Indica
Sativa and indica are subspecies of the cannabis plant which contain certain physical characteristic desired for consumption, including broad leaves and physical effects.
Topicals
Cannabis infused lotions, oils, balms and other products which can be used directly on the skin.
Dab
Slang word used for concentrates of cannabis products.
CBD
A cannabinoid found in the plant. It is not a psychoactive compound, popular for its therapeutic uses.
THC/THCa
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinioid found in the plant which creates psychological effects. Tetrahydrocanabinolic acid (THCa) is an inactive compound found in the plant which contributed to THC through a molecular process.
Terpene
Oils which create flavor profiles, such as CBD and THC, found in the cannabis flower secreted naturally or extracted.
Strain
Refers to the varietal differences of parent plants, often spoken of in relation to the effect had on the consumer, but also distinguished by appearance and aroma.
Shake
Small buds which fall from the plant and often sold for a lower price for consumption.
Kief
Also known ad a dry sift or pollen, kief refers to resin glands that contain terpenese and cannabinoids in the plant. The kief contains much higher levels than the flower.
Wax
A concentrate which has high levels of THC and is similar in look to honey.
Shatter
An extract made through butane extraction which his a high THC content and is known for its glassy look.
Budder
Budder, also referred to as batter, refers to the look of cannabis extract which is soft and golden in color with a soft texture.
Caregiver
A person who is qualified to help patients with use of medical cannabis with purchase or medical use choices.
Live resin
A concentrate created by flash freezing of the cannabis plant after harvest. Flash freezing sometimes results in a higher concentration of flavor, fragrance and potency.
Budtender
A budtender is a person who interacts with customers or patients at a dispensary and undertakes sales
Edible
A food infused with cannabinoids. Some forms include cookies, gummies and brownies.
Seed
The actual seed of a plant, sometimes feminized, which are often ready to germinate and can be used by home growers or producers.
Gangier
A professional, often certified, who can assess quality of product in the cannabis industry.
Flower
A general term which describes the consumable part of a female plant.
Leaf
The leaf, often used to identify the type of cannabis plant, can be harvested for consumption, sometimes for juicing, but rarely smoked.
Concentrate
A broad term used to describe a concentrated form of cannabis product. Those products can be wax, tinctures, hash and other products.
Clone
A cannabis plant considered an exact genetic copy of its mother plant, often a female plant which can provide a reliable product.
Cotyledon
A crucial part of the plant embryo contained in the seed from which leaves first appear.
Feminized
A feminized seed is often preferable as it ensures a flowering plant once mature. Only female plants produce cannabinoids.
Jessica Onsurez can be reached at jonsurez@gannett.com, @JussGREAT on Twitter at by phone at 575-628-5531.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/04/01/carlsbad-current-argus-end-saturday-home-delivery-offer-e-editions/7230222001/
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Carlsbad Current-Argus will end Saturday home delivery, will offer e-Editions
Responding to continued rapid shifts toward digital news consumption, the Carlsbad Current-Argus is announcing a change in print delivery frequency beginning April 28.
The Current-Argus will cease home delivery on Saturdays but instead will provide subscribers with a full digital replica of the newspaper that day, filled with local news, advertising and features such as comics and puzzles. The final Saturday print edition will be delivered April 28. The new model means subscribers will get newspapers delivered to their home five days a week, with a digital newspaper available every day.
Why get a digital subscription? 4 digital benefits of a Carlsbad Current-Argus subscription
“The Current-Argus remains committed to local news," said News Director Jessica Onsurez. "As the ways readers consume news continues to evolve, so do the ways in which daily newspapers deliver the news. Now subscribers can access a digital site, mobile app, social media platforms, multimedia and more.
"Our print newspapers remain a vital and important part of our strategy, but we are making a change this year in response to subscriber and advertising trends.”
The Saturday digital replica, or e-Edition, will have the same look and news as the printed newspaper. The digital format also has some additional features, such as the ability to clip and share articles with friends and family and adjust the text size.
In addition, subscribers of the Current-Argus will now have access to the USA TODAY Network’s full suite of e-Editions across the country, as well as ad-free access to the USA TODAY Crossword puzzle. The Current-Argus is part of the USA TODAY Network, and the change being announced today also is taking place at numerous other publications in the network.
All print subscribers of the Current-Argus have full digital access, meaning they have the ability to read news updates throughout the day, subscriber-only stories and video and audio features, among other benefits. Subscribers also have 24/7 access to obituaries, legal notices, and classifieds on our website.
In addition readers can download our app and follow us on social media. You can find the Current-Argus on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Delivery times for the other days of the week will remain unchanged.
Anyone with questions about the change can access their account at https://account.currentargus.com/ or email customer service at currentargus@gannett.com or call customer service at 1-800-473-0088.
Jessica Onsurez can be reached at jonsurez@gannett.com, @JussGREAT on Twitter at by phone at 575-628-5531.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/01/counties-spend-money-fight-misunderstood-conservation-plan/7219990001/
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Counties spend money to fight misunderstood conservation plan
In January 2021 the president introduced an initiative with a snappy name: 30x30. The governor jumped on board with an initiative for New Mexico.
The federal plan would preserve 30% of U. S. land and water by 2030. It called for collaboration, inclusion, local leadership, honoring private property rights, voluntary stewardship, and flexibility. Currently, about 12% of lands are permanently protected.
However, in a climate of paranoia over anything coming from government, conspiracy theorists quickly tagged it as a “government land grab.” And in a way, given the touchiness around land and property rights, the president and governor could have expected blowback. We’re not far removed from a sharp national reaction to one eastern city’s use of eminent domain for economic development.
During a recent meeting with San Juan County commissioners, Sarah Cottrell Propst, secretary of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, said eminent domain will not be used.
Eminent domain is the government’s right to condemn private property for the public good, usually infrastructure. The landowner is compensated.
As Propst explained it, the state plan focuses on existing programs to reach the 30x30 goal. It’s about designations and working with land owners rather than acquiring land. Its committee of representatives from state agencies won’t recommend new wilderness areas because the attendant restrictions would interfere with their need for flexible management in the face of climate change, according to the New Mexico Political Report.
State Forester Laura McCarthy explained that wilderness designations, in fact, have hindered needed tree thinning to prevent disastrous forest fires. Land managers need greater flexibility.
A few weeks earlier, Margaret Byfield, executive director of the American Stewards of Liberty, addressed San Juan commissioners. The Texas-based nonprofit calls 30x30 “a plan advanced by radical environmental activists,” and it’s making big bucks for its services.
Byfield told San Juan Commissioners 30x30 would rely on programs like conservation easements that strip property owners of their rights, said the Political Report.
Actually, conservation easements provide tax incentives to landowners who set aside a parcel and promise it won’t be developed. Some conservation easements protect agricultural use of the land. The easements don’t allow public access to the property, and the landowners can continue using the easement while it’s dedicated to conservation.
Byfield claimed incorrectly that landowners aren’t informed the easements are permanent, but the New Mexico Land Conservancy’s website carries such a statement. She also said the government’s goal is to “eliminate use of the land,” but the site describes continued agricultural use. One example is a ranch near Ramah that raises organic, grass-fed beef while protecting archaeological sites and conserving wildlife habitat.
Byfield said “threats” in the 30×30 plan include increasing the number of wilderness areas, wilderness study areas and national monuments. The state and local communities, however, would probably use the word “asset” because the areas are stoking New Mexico’s budding outdoor tourism industry.
So far, American Stewards has persuaded Chaves, Otero, Catron, Quay, Lea and Sandoval counties to pass resolutions against 30x30. Chaves County is even a big American Stewards customer.
Ben Neary, a former journalist now with the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, used an Inspection of Public Records Act request to verify that Chaves County paid the group $185,000 for consultation services on land management and endangered species between 2016 and 2021. Imagine the stink if Chaves County had paid the Sierra Club that much in taxpayer dollars.
In its 2019 Form 990 filed with the IRS, the most recent available, American Stewards reported paying Margaret Byfield $91,128 and her husband Daniel, $101,253 – the lion’s share of expenses ($308,647). The group received far more for its consulting work ($204,332) than it did in donations ($116,948).
This is not just an advocacy organization. It has a financial stake in provoking opposition. Is the ironically named American Stewards advancing its own fortunes or the best interests of the counties?
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/01/idaho-difficult-state/7219738001/
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Idaho is a difficult state
There’s something different about the state of Idaho that’s beyond the adjective “quirky.” My husband and I may have lived here for a decade, yet we’re still learning what makes an Idahoan.
A case in point is the debut of a new perfume for women called Frites, French for French fries. Care to dab the scent of oily potatoes beyond your ears? The price for Frites is right: A 1.7-ounce crystalline bottle retails for just $1.89, maybe the price of an order of French fries. Sadly, the fragrance, produced by the Idaho Potato Commission, is sold out.
Potato pride has long been a hallmark of the state, and you might know that in 2012, the Idaho Potato Commission built a six-ton, 28-foot-long concrete replica. The gargantuan tuber was then placed on the back of a flatbed truck, and for seven years it was hauled all over the country for folks to admire.
Its purpose, of course, was spreading the word about baking potatoes that should all have the word “Idaho” in front of them. After the faux potato retired from touring, it found a second life as an AirBnB. Travelers can now sleep inside the potato and perhaps dream of sour cream and chives.
Yet when anyone reads about the doings of the Idaho State Legislature, some, like me, find themselves puzzled, entertained or infuriated. Sometimes all three.
Legislators recently debated a bill that would continue Idaho’s participation in the Powerball lottery after the game extends to the United Kingdom and Australia. Some argued that gambling was always bad, but Rep. Heather Scott came up with a novel political objection: “It just doesn’t make sense that Idaho wants to expand our gambling into communist countries.”
The Legislature also talked about prohibiting any state agency from mandating masks to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. When Republican Rep. Vito Barbieri was asked what he would do if a new disease emerged with an even higher death rate than COVID-19, he explained, "…If we had massive people dying in the streets … we wouldn't need mandates (as) everyone would be protecting themselves automatically.”
Then there’s Republican State Rep. Dorothy Moon, who is running for Secretary of State. She introduced her “Secure Election Act” that made voting more difficult by banning election-day registration, requiring proof of citizenship, and ruling student identification unacceptable.
And all is not well at the top, because Republican Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin somehow thinks that she was elected governor. As soon as Republican Gov. Brad Little leaves the state, she rescinds his executive orders or tries to send the Idaho National Guard to the Mexican border. But when Little returns, he immediately reinstates his orders. Hoping to win the Republican primary and actually become the next governor, McGeachin has welcomed the endorsement of Michelle Malkin, a right-wing commentator with links to hate and white supremacist groups.
But Idaho’s biggest continuing embarrassment, Ammon Bundy, won’t have to battle anybody in the Republican primary. Bundy said he’s now running for governor as an Independent because “the Republican establishment in Idaho is full of filth and corruption.” Convicted of trespassing and resisting arrest, Bundy argues that his time spent campaigning should count as fulfilling his community service obligation.
Everyone knows that finding an affordable rental is tough in the West, and Idaho is no exception. Landlords were once free to advertise units no longer for rent, charge exorbitant application fees and accept an unlimited number of applications from unwitting applicants. A court ruled these practices illegal in Boise in 2019, but a bill in the Legislature would make the shady dealings legal again. What’s probably more painful for renters is that Idaho gave up $22 million in federal COVID-19 emergency aid that was meant to prevent evictions.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/02/community-solar-new-mexico-renewable-energy-public-regulation-commission-environment-climate-change/7224272001/
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Community solar adopted in New Mexico, will provide access to low-income users
Community solar became the law of the land in New Mexico after the Public Regulation Commission (PRC) completed its rulemaking process and adopted the program following a lengthy process and legislative effort.
Community solar allows electricity customers, mostly low income or home renters, to tap into shared “solar gardens” that provide solar power to those who cannot afford their own home solar panels or do not have access to larger, utility-scale installations.
The Community Solar Act was passed during the 2021 Legislative Session and signed into law on April 5, 2021, after similar legislation failed in previous sessions, and called on the PRC to begin developing a rulemaking.
More:Permian Basin solar farm green-lit by State of New Mexico. Will power oil and gas operations
A year later, that process was complete following input from local stakeholders, utility companies and Indigenous groups.
The new rule created a 200 megawatt capacity of community solar in the state, and a policy for selection of projects by utility companies.
At least 30 percent of projects must serve low-income subscribers and service organizations, per the rules.
More:Feds seek solar proposals for 29,000 acres in southern New Mexico, grow industry
Supporters believed the project would help New Mexico reach its goal of using 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.
Community solar was believed, per a report from the New Mexico Bureau of Business and Economic Research, to provide up to $517 million in economic benefits and $147 in labor income.
The regulations were planned to be filed in the New Mexico Register in the coming days and would go into effect within 60 days.
More:Eddy County approves $40M in bonds for solar project near Carlsbad
PRC Chairman Joseph Maestas said the program would help support expanded use of renewable energy in New Mexico, and the process of developing the rules benefitted from a diversity of perspectives.
“This rule and the Community Solar projects that should soon follow are the fruition of a long effort by advocates for renewable energy and for energy equity for all New Mexicans, and those advocates should feel justifiable pride today,” he said.
New Mexico aligns with federal solar goals
Department of Energy Fellow Arthur O’Donnell, who worked with the PRC’s Community Solar Action Team said the program would allow more New Mexico families and businesses to tap into solar power throughout the state.
More:Hydrogen power demanded by New Mexico governor via executive order, despite objections
He said the DOE plans to see 5 million U.S. homes use community solar by 2025, a target the federal agency believed would create up to $1 billion nationally in energy bill savings and advance a federal goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2035.
“Community Solar represents an opportunity for more New Mexican families and businesses to participate in the transition to clean energy,” O’Donnell said. “Today's order is just the start of program implementation.”
U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said community solar allows solar power to be affordable and accessible for more users.
More:'A long way to go' to reduce oil and gas' pollution in the Permian, despite company efforts
“Community solar is one of the most powerful tools we have to provide affordable solar energy to all American households, regardless of whether they own a home or have a roof suitable for solar panels,” she said.
“Achieving these ambitious targets will lead to meaningful energy cost savings, create jobs in these communities, and make our clean energy transition more equitable.”
The DOE estimated there were enough community solar facilities to power 600,000 homes and achieving its target would mean a 700 percent increase in solar power use in the next four years.
More:Chevron seeks $30M in Eddy County bonds for solar farm south of Carlsbad
Renewable energy advocacy groups expressed support for the new regulations, arguing they will help diversify New Mexico’s economy and shift it away from reliance on fossil fuels.
“Expanding access to renewable energy while also cutting costs, especially for our low-income households, is going to change lives in this state,” said Beth Beloff, executive director of the Coalition of Sustainable Communities New Mexico.
“The PRC has done a great job throughout this process, and soon we’ll be able to do even more to build a thriving and sustainable economy built on clean energy that benefits all New Mexicans.”
New Mexico was the 21st state to adopt a community solar program, and Kevin Cray, mountain west regional director for the Coalition for Community Solar Access said the program will also reduced pollution and the environmental impact of energy production and use.
“This community solar program will usher in a brighter energy future that delivers customer choice as well as economic and environmental benefits for New Mexicans for years to come,” he said.
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/02/potash-industry-affected-war-russia-ukraine/7229638001/
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Potash industry affected by war in Russia, Ukraine
Potash is in the news again. The magazine Bloomberg published an article on March 29 about global adjustments due to the war in Ukraine. Russia and Belarus are two of the world’s largest potash suppliers, and both are currently under global sanctions. Market changes include a significant increased interest in potash from Canada and other locations, including Carlsbad. Brazil, for example, previously imported about half of its potash from Russia and Belarus. Carlsbad is the largest producer of potash in the United States and has been mining since 1931.
Potash is an extremely important strategic material and is an essential nutrient for plant growth. Primary agriculture uses are for fertilizer and animal feed. Small quantities are used in manufacturing potassium-bearing chemicals such as detergents, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, water conditioners, alternative to de-icing salt and many more. Carlsbad is proud of its two outstanding potash companies, Intrepid Potash and Mosaic. Both have great production and safety records and outstanding employees. We have always said that potash is the backbone to the economy of Carlsbad and that still remains true.
Albertsons has done it again. Carlsbad’s Albertsons was No. 1 in the state for most funds raised for the Special Olympics in a recent fundraiser. The local store raised $22,861 and New Mexico raised more than $115,000 for the Law Enforcement Torch Run Special Olympics fundraiser. Albertsons celebrated with a short ceremony on Friday morning. Fundraiser efforts included burger and hot dog sales, as well as members of the store’s management team taking pies to the face in exchange for donations. Local Special Olympians participated in all activities. Congratulations again to David Beaty and everyone with our local store.
We’re being asked about Easter Bunny visit locations. So far, we’re aware of a couple local Easter events. At 2 p.m. April 3, HR Block is hosting a Small Business Community Easter Egg Hunt at the beach bandshell. There will be an egg hunt, as well as food and prizes. For more information, please call 575-885-2260.
CNB Bank is hosting the Easter Bunny on two occasions, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. April 8 and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. April 15. The Bunny will be available for photos, free of charge, at 202 W. Stevens during this time period. Please send us information about your Easter Bunny and Egg Hunt events and we’ll be happy to help get word out.
Two outstanding City of Carlsbad employees are retiring this week. Molly Navarrette had a 25 year career with the Carlsbad Police Department as a telecommunicator and Administrative Coordinator. She was well respected for her organizational skills and her strong sense of pride in everything she did. Lavelta Jenkins was hired as Carlsbad’s Assistant Treasurer in 2014. She spent all of her time with the City in the finance department. Lavelta was a very experienced veteran with a strong understanding of taxes. She also volunteered her own time helping others with taxes in the evening. Molly and Lavelta were outstanding City of Carlsbad employees, and we wish them the very best in their retirement.
Mayor Raye Miller of Artesia chose not to run for re-election this year and congratulations to new Mayor Jon Henry. Mayor Miller was a great community partner and did an outstanding job. We look forward to working with Mayor Henry on the challenges and opportunities in Eddy County.
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https://www.currentargus.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currentargus.com%2Fstory%2Fnews%2F2022%2F04%2F02%2F380-fire-highlights-wildfire-awareness-week-eddy-county-and-state%2F7236094001%2F&gnt-tng-s=1
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20220402
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/life/faith/2022/04/03/celebrating-resurrection-children-light/7075898001/
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Celebrating the resurrection as children of the light
As the church draws nearer to the sacred celebration of Resurrection later this month, and many congregations remain in the faithful contemplation and reflection of the Lenten Season, images of darkness and light can permeate the prayer life of a faithful Christian. In many ways, we continue to live in a world of darkness, while celebrating the dawning of light that is Jesus Christ. The light breaking into darkness remains one of Scripture’s greatest messages of hope.
Jesus is the Light of the World. Explicitly, Jesus makes that claim in John 8:12 and 9:5. That light, a divine brilliance that was in the beginning with God, John’s Gospel states from the first chapter is a light that shines in the darkness with a radiance which the darkness was incapable of overcoming. Although Easter is in the air, I would like to share a personal memory of faith from a different season of the Church—Christmas. As a youth growing up in my home church, I spent many Christmas Eve services sitting in the choir loft. A moment would come in the service when all the candles were extinguished and the lights turned out. All, that is, except for one. The solitary Christ Candle remained lit. Although a solitary light in a large church space, the simple radiance of that single flame produced enough light for the pastor to see clearly enough to raise his candle to the flame of the Christ Candle and the one flame quickly became two. The pastor would then touch his candle to those of the Elders and Deacons surrounding the communion table, and the flame would multiply filling the entire front of the church with the warm glow of candlelight.
Jesus said in John 12:36 that the light present from the beginning that shined in the darkness would only be in the world a little while longer. He was referring to his death which, at that point, was only a few days away. Yet, he also encouraged his children to become children of the light. This image bears relevance from the Christmas Eve service as the light from the solitary Christ Candle gave birth to the Pastor’s candle which took on the flame and carried it forward to waiting wicks. Children of the original light quickly spread throughout the front of the church.
The transmission of flame from burning wick to quenched wick also required a distinctive connection. Flame did not jump across the distance or magically appear on someone else’s candle. The wick had to come into direct contact with the flame of the burring candle. Thus, for the light to spread and other candles bear the children of the light, connections had to be made.
As the Candlelight Service progressed however, an even more powerful and beautiful miracle of light began to appear. Looking down from the choir loft amid the darkness of the night, the dim glow of the Christ Candle shed enough light for one to see the dim outlines of hundreds of human shapes quietly sitting in the pews. Yet, there was no way to make out their faces or connect with their identities. They were just faceless shapes in the darkness. Then, the children of the light began to spread. One by one, with wick touching flame, and then passing the power of the light onto the next unlit wick, faces began to glow in the expanding light of Christ. In no time, every face in the church could be clearly seen by the Christ Light held before each man, woman, and child. It was a beautiful testament to the power of not only believing in the Light of the World, but also risking the connections necessary to become children of the Light. Such is our calling as Christians. Connect with the Light, share the Light, connect through the Light, and be the Light. Let Christ’s Light Shine!
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/local/2022/04/04/business-news-nurse-practitioners-join-pecos-valley-physician-group/7233787001/
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Business news: Nurse practitioners join Pecos Valley Physician Group
Nurse practitioners join Pecos Valley Physician Group
Pecos Valley Physician Group announced the addition of two nurse practitioners to its team.
Sarah Duval, MSN, APRN, FNP-C joined Dr. Murugan Athigaman at Sandya Surgical & Vein Center, located at 2402 W. Pierce, Suite 5C.
Duval earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at New Mexico State University and completed her FNP Specialty Track - Master of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. With several years of experience in a variety of healthcare settings.
“I’m eager to further my expertise and look forward to providing optimal patient care in my new role as a nurse practitioner," Duval said.
Longtime Carlsbad Medical Center employee Lana Greer, FNP-BC joined the team at Women’s Health Services. She 21 years of nursing experience, 19 of which were spent as an OB nurse.
“I have a passion for women’s health and education related to pregnancy, newborns and health screenings," she said.
She earned a bachelor of science in nursing and master of science - FNP through Walden University. Greer is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
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20220404
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/04/ted-turner-land-southern-new-mexico-conserved-federal-deal-department-defense-interior-joe-biden/7191675001/
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Ted Turner-owned land in southern New Mexico conserved in federal military deal
Habitat for about a million bats will be protected from human impacts through a deal between a nonprofit and the federal government.
About 315,000 acres of southern New Mexico land owned by billionaire media tycoon Ted Turner were protected from development in a partnership between the U.S. Department of Defense and New Mexico Land Conservancy.
The deal saw a conservation easement added to Armendaris Ranch, owned by Turner, due to perceived cultural significance and biological diversity on the land in Sierra and Socorro counties.
More:Feds will not protect imperiled native Pecos River turtle after decades of debate
The ranch land supports more than 500 vertebrate species, per a report from the Land Conservancy, including multiple listed for federal and state protections.
It also contains the Fra Cristobal Mountain Range, home to 230 desert bighorn sheep, and lava fields that include the Jornada cave system that houses bats of multiple species.
“This land is laden with important and unique natural and cultural resources, and the opportunity to permanently protect a property with conservation values of this magnitude was at the heart of our organization’s decision to tackle this landscape-scale project,” said Ron Troy, southern New Mexico program manager with the Land Conservancy.
More:Bills targeting air pollution see early success in 2022 New Mexico Legislative Session
Armendaris Ranch sits along the Rio Grande, from the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge to the north and stretches about 50 miles south to Elephant Butte Lake near Truth or Consequences.
It spans east from there through the Fra Cristobal Mountains to the San Andres Mountains and White Sands Missile Range.
Ancient footprints were discovered in the ranch about 40 miles from White Sands, believed to date back 20,000 years.
More:New Mexico congresspeople help push bill to fund wildlife recovery through U.S. House
The Conservancy reported evidence of 10 Indigenous cultural periods, including 11,000-year Clovis peoples, pre-Columbian rock art, the remains of Puebloan, Mimbres, Navajo and Apache groups.
In modern history, the land contains a section of the El Camino Real, a network of roads built by colonial Spain also known as the King’s Highway, and the site of largest Civil War battle fought in the southwest known as Valverde.
There are 20 abandoned town sites on the land, per the Conservancy, and former transportation routes between Los Alamos and the Trinity Site used during the Manhattan Project that saw the first nuclear weapons tested in New Mexico.
More:Here's how the oil and gas industry could help save a nearly-extinct bird in New Mexico
The easement was intended to protect all of the historic and cultural significance of the land by restricting permanently restricting most development activities.
For the DOD, blocking development on the ranch was useful as it contains a part of the western buffer for White Sands Missile Range.
Setting aside the land was partially funded by the Department’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) program, which was created to mitigate land conflicts near military installations and conserve wildlife to avoid restrictions that could inhibit missions.
More:New Mexico lawmakers call on feds to save endangered species, align with Biden's 30x30 plan
The REPI program conserved 830,000 acres since its inception in 2002, and the Armendaris Ranch easement was the largest in the program’s history, almost doubling the conserved land from 340,000 acres on 115 easements to 655,000 acres.
“The permanent protection of this land presented a unique and timely convergence of interests between the various partners involved,” said Scott Wilber, Conservancy executive director. “This is truly a win-win-win project for wildlife, the people of New Mexico and our national security.”
Brian Knight, team manager with the U.S. Army said for White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) the project would allow the facility to expand its airspace, as part of the easement is in a region known as the Western Call Up Area where officials at the missile range can extend its airspace as needed for testing and other activities.
More:Biden signs Congress' $1.5T federal spending plan. How will it support eastern New Mexico?
“Completion of this historic project has been a very high priority for White Sands Missile Range,” Knight said. “Working with our neighbors to create compatible land uses and minimize any encroachment to military airspace will sustain the unique capabilities that make WSMR the premier test and evaluation range in the country.”
President Biden, Gov. Lujan Grisham seek to conserve public land
Land conservation was also a main priority for the State of New Mexico and federal government in recent months.
President Joe Biden and the U.S. Department of the Interior pushed in recent months a “30x30” plan that would see 30 percent of federal public land conserved from development by 2030, also known as the “America the Beautiful Initiative.”
More:Oil and gas land sales in southeast New Mexico could resume after federal court ruling
In Biden’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2023, he called for an $18 billion budget at Interior, an increase of $2.9 billion.
About $4.9 billion of that request would go to the 30x30 initiative, per an Interior report, to support local conservation projects.
“President Biden has proposed an important blueprint for our country’s future that reflects the importance of science, equity and collaboration in carrying out Interior’s important missions,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.
“Together, we can ensure that every community has a stake in our efforts to build a better America.”
More:What Biden's State of the Union could mean for New Mexico's environment, industry
And last year, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed an executive order to set a similar goal of conserving state-owned land throughout the state through the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department.
“Today we promote a broad view of conservation that reflects the importance of traditional resource protection, access for outdoor recreation, contributions of working lands, and tribal sovereignty and self-determination,” Lujan Grisham said upon announcing the order.
“We have set the wheels in motion to conserve our state’s incredible natural resources and ensure that New Mexico remains, forever, the Land of Enchantment.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/04/temporary-workers-sought-seasonal-employment-carlsbad/7146676001/
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Seasonal help fills void for increased outdoor activities during spring and summer
Anticipated increased outdoor activities at City of Carlsbad facilities during the spring and summer led to increased seasonal temporary hires, said Development Director Ted Cordova.
“The waterpark has the most seasonal employees due to the need for lifeguards who are required for us to remain in operation," Cordova said.
Advertisements for help at the City of Carlsbad Waterpark began in February and the Carlsbad City Council approved nearly 11 temporary hires near the end of March, read City of Carlsbad City Council documents.
Closed in 2020 due to COVID-19 safety protocols, the waterpark had around 35,000 visitors during May through September 2021, per City Carlsbad Community Development data.
City of Carlsbad Spokesperson Kyle Marksteiner said the waterpark would open May 28, Memorial Day weekend.
Cordova said temporary help was used in the City of Carlsbad Parks Department, the Riverwalk Recreation Center and the Lake Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course.
During the spring and summer of last year, Lake Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course had two temporary employees and six fulltime employees, per City of Carlsbad data.
More than 15,000 rounds of golf were played April through August 2021 at the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course, and since the beginning of this year, 3,607 rounds of golf were played at Lake Carlsbad, according to Community Development data.
Temporary work equals life skills
“The experiences gained in this particular area include learning to manage their time, learning to get along with others and understanding how to follow directives and the consequences that go along with that if you don't follow directives,” Cordova said.
He said hard work, punctuality, working well with others and dedication shown by seasonal workers could lead to fulltime employment with the City of Carlsbad.
“They stand a good chance of being hired by the city given job availability,” Cordova said.
More:Trade training program expands to southeast New Mexico with Permian Strategic Partnership
He said applicants must be 15 or older to apply for seasonal work with the City of Carlsbad.
“If anyone is interested, we would like interested individuals to fill out an application with the human resources department at the City of Carlsbad,” Cordova said.
Temporary employees fill vital roles at New Mexico State Parks
Ray Drake, southeast regional director for the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (ENMRD) New Mexico State Parks, said seasonal workers at state parks mow, landscape, clean up trash and help with boating.
“It depends on what type of park it is, as the needs may vary some,” he said. “Seasonal staff are hired in the summer. We have hired for the full year due to staff shortages.”
Drake said most seasonal jobs start in April and last until the middle of September. Ages and backgrounds varied for temporary help.
Pay is $15 an hour and Drake said temporary workers may attain fulltime employment with the State Parks Division.
People with extra time who wish to volunteer at a state park were encouraged to apply at the state parks website.
“Volunteers are always needed each spring and summer,” said EMNRD Spokesperson Wendy Mason.
More:Explore the land of enchantment from home with state-wide virtual tour series
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park Director David Heckard sought volunteers for multiple positions at the park north of Carlsbad.
Heckard was on duty March 28, answering phone calls at the park’s front desk.
“The position where I’m standing right now is the front desk position and we have openings in that right now,” he said. “You need to be trustworthy and run a cash register.”
Heckard said extra help was appreciated during school and special events.
“We have a category called docents. They generally have to take the docent course and pass it and then their familiar with the history of the park and they can lead school groups. We only have some volunteers that work on special events,” he said.
Heckard said COVID-19 impacted some programs at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.
More:Trade training program expands to southeast New Mexico with Permian Strategic Partnership
“All of that stuff has kind of gone away with the pandemic. It’s not officially back 100 percent. Hopefully it doesn’t change with another variant. Hopefully we can reinstitute some of our special programs,” he said.
Mike Smith can be reached at 575-628-5546 or by email at MSmith@currentargus.com or @ArgusMichae on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/04/interested-new-mexicos-history-check-out-these-titleinterested-in-new-mexics-carlsbad-public-library/7244907001/
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Interested in New Mexico's history? Check out these titles from the Carlsbad Public Library
If you enjoy living in or visiting New Mexico, I have three great titles to help you explore your New Mexico passion. Two of them, “Hidden Gems: Roadside Treasures of New Mexico,” and “New Mexico Mission Churches” are by local author Donna Blake Birchell. The third, “Scenic Driving New Mexico: Exploring the State’s Most Spectacular Back Roads,” is by Laurence Parent.
I first met Donna over 20 years ago at Carlsbad Public Library. Donna’s love for New Mexico history was one of the first things I learned about her. She has published numerous reader-friendly guides about everything from Carlsbad and Eddy County history to New Mexico’s haunted hotels and even a lively history of women outlaws associated with the state.
Two of her recent books are perfect for those who want to find some of the state’s lesser-known but nevertheless significant and beautiful attractions. In “Hidden Gems: Roadside Treasures of New Mexico,” Birchell guides readers to unique places like Four Corners Monument, “the only place in the U.S. you can be in four states at once.” If you are interested in Native American heritage and history, Birchell recommends visiting Gallup, NM, “known as ‘the heart of Indian country’ due to the important influence of several different indigenous people groups who have lived there for thousands of years.
Birchell includes important practical information for travelers to know, such as where family pets may be welcome, driving directions, visitor center hours, and even some fun places to stop and eat while you’re on the go. I especially enjoyed looking at the photos (most in color) she gathered for her guide; one of my favorites appears on page 145 of “Hidden Gems,” showing pilot Amelia Earhart posing underground in Carlsbad Caverns during her stop in southeast New Mexico.
In “New Mexico Mission Churches,” Birchell provides historical background on the construction of the mission churches, discusses clashes between Spanish explorers and the groups of indigenous people already in New Mexico, and offers visitor guidelines. Entries for over twenty missions are included in the book, along with black and white photos highlighting special features. Each entry includes important information for visitors to know, such as whether photography is allowed, driving directions, nearby amenities, and more. Birchell divided the book into two sections, one for pueblo mission churches and one for non-pueblo missions.
Author Laurence Parent’s book is a great choice for those who enjoy visiting less-populated areas of the state and are looking for great outdoor New Mexico experiences. Parent highlights thirty-five different car trips around New Mexico with color photos, maps, camping information, best season to visit, and even a detailed appendix with local contact numbers so you can make travel plans with the most current available information. With Parent’s guide, you can plan trips to see special New Mexico places like the dramatic scenery of El Malpais National Conservation Area in the northeastern part of the state, or get ideas for visiting breathtaking mountain scenery in the western Gila Wilderness. Are you new to the Carlsbad area? Parent also suggests great drives closer to home exploring Walnut Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, and Sitting Bull Falls.
Plan some wonderful travel around the state with these and similar titles available at Carlsbad Public Library. Browse the library’s New Mexico book collection in person, or use the library’s website at https://cityofcarlsbadnm.com/departments/carlsbad-public-library/.
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20220404
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/05/permian-basin-site-oil-and-gas-expansion-lower-gas-prices-president-joe-biden-russia-ukraine/7231266001/
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Permian Basin the site of oil and gas expansion to lower gas prices amid Russia conflict
Triple-digit oil prices in the U.S. continued for the second month in a row, leading to increased operations and land deals in the nation’s most active oilfield in southeast New Mexico and West Texas.
The Permian Basin saw rising fossil fuel activity throughout 2022 amid increased demand as COVID-19 subsided.
The invasion of Ukraine created further supply strains as it led to international condemnation of Russian leader Vladimir Putin and the removal of his country – the world’s second-highest oil producer – from the global market.
That supply disruption sent gas prices at the pump to $4 or more throughout New Mexico and the U.S. in the weeks since.
More:Heinrich, U.S. senators urge Biden to transition from oil and gas amid Russia conflict
Some of the world’s largest oil and gas companies recently announced plans to increase their output from the Permian, with Chevron being the latest in announcing via an April 1 news release that it would increase its production in the region by 10 percent, amounting to about 1 million barrels a day by 2025.
That would be about a fifth of the about 5 million barrels a day produced in the Permian in 2021, per data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
In the same announcement, the company said it also planned multiple projects to reduce its carbon emissions and environmental impact.
More:Permian Basin land sought after by oil and gas companies Russia conflict grows fuel demand
“Chevron plans to boost its production in the Permian Basin by 10 percent this year as economic and geopolitical events underscore the importance of meeting society’s expectations for energy security and cost efficiency as well as carbon reduction,” the release read. “Our disciplined approach to bolstering production is matched by our focus on lowering the carbon intensity of our operations.”
Chevron touted its onshore methane intensity as 85 percent that the “U.S. industry average,” along with intensity in the Permian Basin about two-thirds lower than average worldwide.
“Throughout Chevron’s global upstream operations, we’re producing energy at a carbon intensity well below the global industry average and are in the top quartile of all oil and gas producers,” read the announcement.
More:Permian Basin oil and gas pollution could boom amid Russia conflict
In an apparent reflection of demand for Permian Basin assets, APA Corporation, fossil fuel operator Apache Corporation’s holding company, announced two large land deals in the western Delaware sub-basin of the Permian – the most sough-after area of the region – valued at about $1 billion.
On March 7, APA announced it sold about $805 million worth of mineral rights in the Delaware Basin to an undisclosed buyer, believed to have a capacity of about 7,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day.
Four days later, on March 11 APA sold of about $224 million worth of shares of Kinetik, a joint venture between Altus Midstream and BCP Raptor Holdco, and Apache planned to use $100 million of the proceeds to drill new wells in the Permian.
More:Oil and gas companies face $275K in fines for not reporting methane pollution in New Mexico
As energy companies positioned themselves to drive up production in the basin, the region’s oil and gas rigs continued an upward trend along with the two states that share the Permian.
Four more rigs were added to basin-wide last week for a total of 323, an increase of 99 rigs in the last year as of Friday, per the latest data from Baker Hughes.
New Mexico held steady at 96, maintaining a growth of 26 rigs in the last year as of Friday, Baker Hughes reported
More:Oil and gas land sales in southeast New Mexico could resume after federal court ruling
And Texas added five rigs for its nation-leading total of 331 in the last week, up 122 rigs in the last year, records show.
The added rigs appeared to follow high oil prices as the Chicago Mercantile Exchange showed domestic crude trading for about $101 on Monday, maintaining in the triple-digits since the beginning of March.
Prices peaked at $123 per barrel on March 8, per historical data from Nasdaq, and fluctuated up and down throughout the month upon announcements by the U.S. of releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to combat skyrocketing energy prices and the shifting tides of the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
In his latest move to address a shortage in fossil fuel brought on by Russia’s restriction from world trade, President Joe Biden on March 31 announced he would release 1 million barrels per day from the U.S. oil reserves for the next six months – totaling in 180 million barrels added to the market.
“Because of Putin’s war of choice, less oil is getting to market, and the reduction in supply is raising prices at the pump for Americans,” read a statement from the White House. “President Biden is committed to doing everything in his power to help American families who are paying more out of pocket as a result.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/2022/04/05/southeast-new-mexico-college-celebrates-independence/7271409001/
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Southeast New Mexico college celebrates independence from New Mexico State University
April 1 was a big day for Southeast New Mexico College- formerly New Mexico State University-Carlsbad. The college passed the key phase of a very complicated transition, and April 1 was the first day in which members of the faculty and staff worked for SENMC. SENMC will celebrate its independence day from 3-7 p.m. on April 11 at the college with a public celebration. Thank you again to the many community members who worked very hard to help make this happen, including John Heaton, Craig Stephens, Wendy Austin, Jay Jenkins and Kyle Marksteiner. Local faculty and staff members have expressed a lot of excitement about this transition – especially over the fact that the board is governed locally and because there will be much less red tape. Employees have kept their tenure, and the benefits package is very similar.
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The Advanced Heart & Vascular Center of New Mexico is holding a ribbon cutting at its temporary location on 2405 W. Pierce Street. This will be a temporary location – the office will eventually move to within the Skyline Suites Subdivision. Led by Dr. Amanda Ryan and accompanied by experienced nurse practitioners Jennifer Tupper and Missy Richardson, the office will focus on the heart and vascular system. The ribbon cutting will be held at noon on April 7 and the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce will be participating.
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We said we’d help be on the lookout for additional Easter activities. Western Commerce Bank is collecting donations to build Easter Baskets for youth of Child Advocacy Centers in New Mexico. From April 1-13, donations can be dropped off at any Western Commerce Bank location. Recommended donations include small stuffed animals, small toys, personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes and hoodies. Easter will be celebrated on April 17 this year. Hillcrest Baptist Church (605 N. 6th Street) will be doing a free egg giveaway on April 9.
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After a little extra wait, Major League Baseball will begin on Thursday with a game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. The Miami Marlins begin their season against the San Francisco Giants. Carlsbad standout Trevor Rogers is listed as the probable starter at the April 9 game at Oracle Park. Trevor took two trips to the mound during preseason play. He picked up one win and recorded seven strikeouts. It was great seeing Trevor around town at Mi Casita and other locations, we’re also very glad to know that baseball has resumed. We’re all looking forward to another exciting season!
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/06/new-mexico-biden-infrastructure-bill-funds-improve-home-energy-efficiency/7269347001/
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New Mexico gets $22 million in Biden infrastructure bill to improve home energy efficiency
Homes throughout New Mexico could become more energy efficient during extreme weather events as the state will receive up to $22 million in federal grant dollars to do so via the infrastructure bill recently signed into law by President Joe Biden.
The bill earmarked the federal dollars for New Mexico through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program.
Money would provide rebates to aid low-income families retrofitting their homes for better energy efficiency, intended to reduce utility bills.
The program, created in 1976, was estimated to save homes an average of at least $372 a year and served 7 million families since its inception, per a report from the DOE.
More:Los Alamos National Laboratory agrees to clean up nuclear pollution, ends watchdog lawsuit
That also supported 8,500 jobs, per the report.
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) said the work will help his constituents save money while improving energy efficiency and could promote more electric, energy-efficient appliances.
“When New Mexico homes use less energy, New Mexico families save more money,” he said. “I’m proud to see the Infrastructure Law deliver investments that provide New Mexicans the opportunity to upgrade and weatherproof their homes that will result in lower monthly energy costs.”
More:Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance members confident of federal approval for nuclear waste facility
Heinrich said the funding in conjunction with Zero Emissions Homes Act he sponsored, which was most recently assigned the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, would help cut environmental impacts and save New Mexicans on their bills.
“With Democrats in control of both Congress and White House, we have a prime opportunity to create more dollar-saving opportunities that will help even more New Mexicans electrify their homes,” he said. “We are already making the clean energy transition more accessible to all Americans, implementing this rebate system will make it more affordable.”
More:Oil industry urges support from Biden as energy costs soar in the wake of Russia conflict
The rest of New Mexico’s Democrat congressional delegation signaled support for the funding and legislation to address climate change and provide an economic boost for their state.
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is making a difference in New Mexico – helping lower costs for New Mexicans and making our homes more energy efficient,” said U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan. “This investment in the Weatherization Assistance Program will support jobs and opportunities and provide support for thousands of households across the country.”
U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) touted the assistance program saving hundreds of dollars annually on electric bills in New Mexico and across the U.S. while also reducing pollution from fossil fuels.
More:Xcel Energy pushing electric vehicles in New Mexico, plan to cut emissions by 2050
“I’m proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes historic investments in the Weatherization Assistance Program, which will help New Mexicans across the state and help to address climate change,” she said.
“By reducing energy costs for New Mexico families and increasing energy efficiency, this funding will help improve homes, save families an average of $283 or more a year, and support good paying jobs—all while saving energy and helping build a more resilient future.”
And U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM) said the funding and weatherization program would particularly help New Mexicans both in local communities and Indigenous groups.
More:'A long way to go' to reduce oil and gas' pollution in the Permian, despite company efforts
"Investing in energy efficiency and weatherization is a win for everyone,” she said. “This program will reduce utility costs for our low-income families and ensure the health and safety of their homes. Let's build on these investments and continue to deliver for our communities.”
New Mexico’s top utility companies also assisted to their customers in weatherizing their homes for better energy efficiency.
Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), the state’s biggest power provider, provides home energy “checkups” by sending specialists to home customers to evaluate energy efficiency in person or virtually.
More:New Mexico needs electric vehicles to clean up air pollution, prevent deaths study says
Retrofits for home lighting could save up to $75 a year, PNM reported, while weather insulation can prevent up to 40 percent of air leaks.
Xcel Energy, which serves regions in southeast New Mexico, offered incentives since 2001 along with access for New Mexico users to renewable energy both in residential and commercial sectors.
The company provided $750,000 to residential customers in 2021, along with $1.5 million for low income homes.
“The Residential and Low Income Home Energy Service was developed by Xcel Energy to provide an incentive to suppliers of energy services to implement electric energy-efficiency projects at Xcel Energy residential customers' facilities,” read a statement from Xcel.
“The primary objective of the Home Energy Service is to achieve cost-effective reduction in peak summer demand.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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Rebecca Dow aims to unseat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, get government 'out of the way'
Rebecca Dow, a member of New Mexico’s House of Representatives from Truth or Consequences, said her experience in government gave her an advantage in the crowded field vying for the Republican Party’s nomination for governor in the 2022 election.
Unlike her opponents – meteorologist Mark Ronchetti, Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block and businessman Greg Zanetti – Dow said she held years of experience in New Mexico’s state government negotiating across party lines and finding connections in Santa Fe.
Before taking office in 2017, Dow founded and was chief executive officer of Apple Tree Educational Center, which provided a variety of educational service to the local community in Sierra County along with a technology company that consults for for-profit early education providers throughout the American West.
Dow said she was the right GOP candidate to unseat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and was critical of the governor’s work since she took office in 2019, accusing Lujan Grisham of “getting in the way” of business through regulatory burdens and failing to truly meet the needs of New Mexicans in rural communities such as the southeast corner.
She said her role as state representative gave Dow a front-row seat to the workings of Santa Fe and along with her business acumen, would provide her the experience needed to lead the state.
On Tuesday, Dow joined the New Mexico Legislature in a special session to address capital spending after Lujan Grisham vetoed legislation known as the “junior bill” that was intended to provide capital outlay funding for construction and infrastructure projects in local communities.
Dow met with the Current-Argus amid her campaign for the nomination to talk about the current state of New Mexico’s government and how she thinks she can improve it.
More:'Real frustration': Mark Ronchetti aims to take New Mexico governor post from Lujan Grisham
Why should you replace Lujan Grisham as New Mexico’s top elected official?
“We just have to get bad government out of the way. I grew up in New Mexico. I’ve spent two decades creating jobs from nothing since I was 26. The barrier to that, I know firsthand, has been the bureaucratic red tape, the regulatory environment, and how much we incentivize people to stay on assistance.
“I have a working knowledge of the regulatory environment, as well as firsthand experience working with families trying to move out of dependency and into self-sufficiency. I’m equipped to govern from day one. I’m better than MLG because I believe in the everyday New Mexicans and the citizen’s ability to make informed decisions for themselves. We have a governor that doesn’t believe in our bill of rights and the American dream and our right to self-government. She thinks she has to make decisions for us. I simply disagree with her.”
More:Hydrogen power demanded by New Mexico governor via executive order, despite objections
How is your legislative experience an advantage for you as governor?
“I’ve been there (Santa Fe) for six years, which is long enough to understand how the sausage is made, but not long enough to be content with it. I’ve watched some folks get up there, you’ve got a high learning curve. To think there is not a learning curve is another expression of how naïve it is to think you can go up there without knowing who the players are. There are players up there and there’s a lot to maneuver.
“What I have learned is there are some things that happen through the legislative process, that you’ve got to pay a lot of attention to the budget, to the language of the budget. Governors come and go, and some of these bureaucrats have been in their positions for decades. They don’t leave when the governor leaves. You’ve got to build relationships. The hard work, the biggest reforms will need to go to the voters.”
More:Water shortages and climate change: A conversation with the Governor
What is your reaction to new regulations on oil and gas?
“We have a self-imposed energy crisis in a state that is rich in extracted minerals. It’s absolutely absurd. This governor is allowing unelected bureaucrats, people who have been appointed to boards and commissions, to slow-walk permits, licensing and making it harder to do business. There are nuances to that that is anti-oil and gas. They need to be replaced with people who understand and embrace that we are an energy-producing state and recognize that are producers are producing more than ever, there’s less emissions that ever and it’s only getting safer all the time.”
More:'Far from over.' New Mexico Supreme Court declines to investigate state's COVID-19 response
What is New Mexico’s role in the national energy discussion?
“If I was the governor, I would be calling (President Joe) Biden right now and saying ‘End your moratoriums on federal leasing. We have the solution for America’s energy crisis, and how can we help you with this international crisis.’
“There’s so much hypocrisy in so many ways, because oil and gas production and petroleum are needed to promote their own green energy agenda. We need to set New Mexico’s potential free. It’s more than oil and gas, but we have so many rare minerals. We have the opportunity to celebrate nuclear as a clean fuel. New Mexico should be one of the wealthiest states in the nation, and bad government is in the way.”
More:Environmental policy tops Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's 2023 budget recommendation
How can you ensure southeast New Mexico gets a fair share of state funds?
“The roads are heavily used in southeast New Mexico because you are producing, but yet you’re not seeing the weight and distance tax or the fair share, appropriate share, come back to maintain those roads. Right now, the process of prioritizing how roads are maintained and replaced in New Mexico is not data driven. But there are best practices in other states where roads are maintained and replaced based on need. I’d like to look at those states. They know which road projects are happening six years out.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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City excited for new food and shopping area near Carlsbad Small Engine
You’ve probably seen a lot of recent work going on at the corner of Sixth and Church Streets near Carlsbad Small Engine. Carlsbad Small Engine owner Harold Klaus and others are working hard to turn what had been an abandoned drive-in diner and empty field next door into a family food and shopping destination.
“As a community, we are represented by what our city looks like,” Klaus said. “We are located less than a mile from the high school, and the property was not representative of Carlsbad or its potential. When people visit for events and games at the high school, we wanted them to see the best example of how beautiful our city is. This park represents that and our business’s commitment to giving back to the community.”
The effort has included planting hundreds of flowers, shrubbery and trees, as well as adding flagstone terraces and landscaping. The old diner has been repainted and remodeled. Klaus says this location will soon serve as a bakery and retail shop, while food truck space will be available nearby. Grassy areas are available for picnics and relaxation.
Klaus wanted to thank several other local businesses who helped with this rejuvenation process, including 4 the Cross Welding, Phil’s Landscaping, Thunder Run Concrete, Murrill Electric, CNB Bank, Sod Busters, 2 D Plumbing, Lowe’s, and the employees at Carlsbad Small Engine. Of course, he also said he wanted to thank Carlsbad Small Engine’s decades of customers.
“Thank you Carlsbad for helping us make this possible by supporting our little local mower and go kart business and in turn giving us the ability to invite others into our project,” Klaus said. “Keep an eye out. The power will be on soon, the lights will spring to action, the flowers are blooming and our little corner of Carlsbad is coming life with food, excitement and laughter again. It’s just great.”
Thanks to the efforts of Harold and others, what had been an eyesore on Church Street is now a beautiful area offering several business opportunities.
***
New Mexico’s Legislature met on Tuesday (4-5-22) for a called special session to focus on the junior money spending bill and potential rebates to residents to ease the cost of inflation and current gas prices. We do expect to see some funding for projects in the Carlsbad area and will keep you updated.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway
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All refugees deserve a haven
Ukrainians fleeing from their embattled country have been met at the Polish border with hot soup, shelter, official ID cards, and invitations to the homes of Polish families. Some of their children are already going to Polish schools.
Poland, a country of about 37 million, has opened its arms to more than 2 million Ukrainians. Similar stories are reported from other neighboring countries.
In New Mexico, migrants seeking asylum are left waiting in a tent in Mexico, returned to the country they tried to escape, or are sent to prison.
If the contrast was not immediately obvious to you, you haven’t been paying attention. It was so obvious to me that I’m almost embarrassed to write this column. This should not need to be said.
One such prison is the Torrance County Detention Facility in Estancia, privately operated by the company CoreCivic. It was recently found so unsafe and unsanitary that inspectors from the U. S. Homeland Security Department demanded all detainees be relocated.
The inspectors’ report has been challenged by U. S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, D-New Mexico, who conducted her own inspection a few weeks later and found conditions much safer than the report indicated. So that is a controversy, and we can keep an open mind until further facts emerge. Just remember the federal government is paying CoreCivic $2 million a month for that facility.
The basic point remains. It’s illogical and inhumane to keep people in prison when their only crime was escaping from life-threatening conditions in their homeland. If they crossed the border illegally, maybe that was because our outdated policies have made it so difficult to reach legal asylum.
We’ve known for years how stingy Americans are about letting the world’s dispossessed into our nation. The Ukraine crisis has thrown the contrast into sharper relief.
Refugees have been flooding into Europe since the Syrian Civil War began in 2011, fleeing the same kind of destruction that Russia is now visiting on Ukraine. While there has been some reluctance, European nations have been pretty gracious in letting them in. We have largely avoided those waves of migrants because of the conveniently located ocean.
About 6.8 million Syrians are refugees and asylum-seekers, and another 6.7 million people are displaced within Syria. According to Statista, the United States has admitted 22,561 Syrians since 2011. A drop in the bucket.
There is no ocean to stop refugees from Central America, where families flee not from war but from cartels that, reports say, want to turn their sons into criminals and their daughters into prostitutes.
Or from Haiti, probably the most desperate place in our hemisphere. In recent months they have been chased by immigration officers on horseback or sent to – you guessed it – the Torrance County facility, where Searchlight New Mexico documented they were denied access to legal counsel for weeks.
We’ve admitted more than 66,000 Afghans, including more than 7,000 housed at Holloman Air Force Base until January.
About 400 Afghans are expected to resettle in New Mexico, according to officials at Lutheran Family Services, the state's primary non-governmental refugee resettlement organization – in Las Cruces, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque. Another drop in that bucket.
Refugees who have survived the gauntlet of our deliberately cumbersome screening processes can find some official support in addition to these nonprofit services. The state’s Human Services Department provides a refugee resettlement program. UNM has a Refugee and Immigrant Well-being Project, which pairs undergraduate students with refugee and immigrant families.
So we are not doing nothing, but we Americans are not doing nearly enough to meet the need in a world disrupted by wars, famines and climate change. Ukrainians deserve a safe haven. So do Central Americans whose lives are threatened in a country overwhelmed by gangs.
Contact Merilee Dannemann through www.triplespacedagain.com.
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Unusual coalition unites for clean energy
Communities in the rural West can stand up to giant outside gas companies, if they work together despite their differences. That’s how the Jordan Cove gas pipeline project was finally killed in Oregon by a coalition of conservative ranchers and farmers, climate activists, Indigenous tribal leaders, anglers, and coastal residents.
The victory occurred last December, when a Canadian energy company called Pembina announced it would halt plans to build a 230-mile pipeline through rural southwestern Oregon, crossing more than 400 streams and rivers along the way. The pipeline was to carry fracked gas from the Rockies to a huge terminal proposed for the coastal town of Coos Bay, where it would be loaded onto ships bound for Asia.
When the Jordan Cove export project was first announced some 15 years ago, the odds of stopping it appeared slim. Supporters included the state’s governor and its two U.S. senators – all Democrats – plus most of the Republican political establishment.
But community organizers in Coos Bay and beyond didn’t give up.
“The last thing we needed was another giant fossil-fuel project and another major fire hazard just to profit an outside corporation,” recalls Allie Rosenbluth, campaigns director of Rogue Climate, a grassroots group in southern Oregon.
Rogue Climate contacted hundreds of landowners whose property would be affected, while also working with local environmental groups like Rogue Riverkeeper.
They quickly found that many ranchers were angry about threats from the company. If landowners didn’t let the pipeline cross their land in return for a one-time payment, they were told, the power of eminent domain would be invoked to impose it on them anyway. Congress granted this power to gas pipelines in 1947.
Over a seven-year period, an unlikely coalition grew in strength, turning out thousands of residents to public hearings and spurring more than 50,000 people to submit written comments to regulatory agencies. A delegation representing all parts of the coalition even held a sit-in in the governor’s office.
Seven rural landowners from across the political spectrum also published a column in the state’s largest newspaper, the Oregonian. It was blunt: “We are sick and tired of the pie-in-the-sky speculation by these for-profit corporations. We can't build, we can't plan, and we can't sell if we choose because of the threat of eminent domain.”
Don Gentry, chair of the Klamath Tribes, protested that the pipeline would “strip shade from streams and pollute them with sediment, harming fish central to the Klamath’s traditions and way of life.”
Bill McCaffree, a lifelong Republican, and longtime president of the local electrical workers union in Coos Bay, also publicly disagreed with construction union leaders who wanted the short-term work for their members.
“Everyone who works in the building and construction trades wants to build things that benefit communities and don’t cause harm,” McCaffree said. “Since I was a kid, there have been jobs here in Coos County from fishing, clamming and oyster farming. What would happen to those jobs when the bay is disturbed by construction and operation of this export terminal?”
A better strategy for creating good, stable jobs, McCaffree said, would be investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy development. That sector is “creating jobs at a rate 12 times faster than the rest of the U.S. economy.”
In the wake of this broad and vocal resistance, state agencies finally announced that the pipeline and terminal failed to qualify for necessary permits. That led Pembina to tell federal regulators it was dropping the project.
The coalition didn’t stop with its victory. Members convinced the Oregon legislature last year to pass bills to transition the state to 100 percent clean energy by 2040, provide $50 million for community-based resilience and renewable energy projects outside of Portland, and appropriate $10 million for energy-efficient home repairs for low-income households. The legislature also banned any new natural gas power plants in Oregon.
“Most of us who live in small towns and rural areas all want the same things,” said Rogue Climate’s Hannah Sohl. “Good jobs, a healthy climate, communities that work for everyone. We can accomplish a lot when we talk to each other and organize.”
Matt Witt is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, a nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about Western issues. He is a writer and photographer in Talent, Oregon.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/07/nuke-waste-shipments-new-mexico-idaho-increase/9475364002/
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Nuke waste shipments to New Mexico from Idaho to increase after retrieval project completed
One of the largest sources of nuclear waste coming to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant repository near Carlsbad completed a project to exhume about 50,000 drums buried in Idaho during the Cold War.
Most of that waste, transuranic (TRU) waste, was destined for its final resting place at WIPP, about 2,000 feet underground in a massive salt deposit.
TRU waste sent to WIPP is made up of clothing materials and equipment irradiated during nuclear activities at sites owned by the U.S. Department of Energy across the country.
More:Los Alamos National Laboratory agrees to clean up nuclear pollution, ends watchdog lawsuit
At Idaho National Laboratory, the DOE reported it recently completed work to remove waste from an about 6-acre landfill at the lab.
The project’s completion marked a milestone in Idaho’s clean-up mission and removed waste from an area about 585 feet above the Snake River Plain Aquifer, an important source of water in the region that many worried was at risk as the waste sat in the landfill.
To remove the waste, the DOE’s Office of Environmental Management (EM) conducted its Accelerated Retrieval Project beginning in 2005 to remove waste from the larger 97-acre landfill that was used to hold low-level, hazardous and TRU waste for the past 50 years.
More:Permian Basin nuclear waste project opposed by critics in U.S. Court of Appeals
The latest area where waste was removed was the ninth and final enclosure in the cleanup project.
Ike White, EM Senior Adviser said the project was completed 18 months ahead of schedule.
“Eighteen months ahead of schedule and in the middle of a global pandemic, I can’t overstate how difficult that was,” White said. “It’s a remarkable feat and it’s a testament to the workforce that we have, all the men and women who make the important work that we do possible.”
More:Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance members confident of federal approval for nuclear waste facility
The waste removed from the landfill was mostly generated at the non-decommissioned Rocky Flats facility, where nuclear weapons were developed near Denver.
It was shipped to Idaho and buried at the lab between 1954 and 1970 – about 10,000 cubic meters of waste, the equivalent of 49,500 drums.
Next, workers at the lab will construct a cover to go over the landfill, using about 3.4 cubic yards of local vegetation and other material intended to make the cover resemble the nearby terrain.
More:Oil and gas companies join fight against nuclear waste facilities in the Permian Basin
Officials said the cover will be in place by 2028, and along with the removal of most of the remaining solvents from the ground, local water quality should improve as a drainage canal will divert water away from the landfill.
U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho) said in a letter commemorating the project’s completion that it would help protect the state’s environment and mitigate the impacts of nuclear activities.
“Employees of the Idaho Cleanup Project (ICP) are helping to clean up the legacy of the Cold War,” Simpson wrote. “Please join me in thanking them for their dedication, professionalism and commitment to protecting the environment in Idaho.”
More:Nuclear waste facility near Carlsbad struggling for airflow, per federal documents
Idaho sends more nuclear waste to New Mexico than anywhere else
Idaho National Laboratory a leading nuclear waste source for New Mexico
Records show Idaho National Laboratory sent more shipments of nuclear waste to WIPP than any other facility this year during the repository's lifetime, about 6,647 as of April 2.
That’s about half of the repository’s nuclear waste since it began accepting shipments in 1999 and meant more waste-loaded miles were driven by delivery drivers from Idaho to New Mexico – about 9.2 million – than any of the 12 other facilities that sent waste to WIPP.
More:Nuclear waste managers explain cost increases as disposal facility near Carlsbad
And in recent years, Idaho remained the lead facility for waste sent to WIPP.
Fifteen of the 28 shipments received so far this year came from Idaho, with the rest coming in from Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in northern New Mexico.
In 2021, 122 shipments came from Idaho – about 58 percent of the 210 waste shipments received last year.
More:Nuclear waste disposal mission at facility near Carlsbad could be imperiled by delays
The year before that, Idaho sent 98 shipments to WIPP which again accounted for a little more than half of the 192 shipments received that year from across the U.S.
Idaho is prioritized due to a settlement agreement reached by the DOE and the State of Idaho in 1995 that required the federal agency to adhere to certain milestones and requirements for waste removal from the facility, specifying that the lab was not to become a “default repository,” per DOE records.
WIPP and the DOE’s waste priorities recently raised concerns from officials in New Mexico for its apparent prioritization of waste from out of state.
The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) late last year sent a letter to congressional leaders calling for an investigation of WIPP’s activities including its disposal of out-of-state waste.
And New Mexico Rep. Christine Chandler (D-43) of Los Alamos, a frequent critic and advocate for removing waste from her district which contains LANL, said New Mexicans should reap the most benefit from waste disposal at WIPP as, she said, the state held the most risk by hosting the repository.
“I feel very strongly that since the WIPP is in New Mexico, and New Mexico accepts the risk for operating that plant that New Mexico waste should be prioritized,” Chandler said in an interview with the Current-Argus. “That would mostly mean from LANL.”
She said LANL’s needs for waste disposal were likely to grow in the coming years as the DOE planned to use the New Mexico site to increase production of plutonium pits, the part of nuclear warheads that trigger their explosion.
“They have a settlement with Idaho and so shipments from there are prioritized to the detriment of actual active sites like LANL,” Chandler said. “The DOE is depending on LANL for the weapons future. There is going to be more waste.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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Oil and gas' role in climate change highlighted in global report. How can New Mexico help?
Oil and gas production could be leading the world in climate change impacts brought on by pollution, per a recent international report that led to New Mexico environmentalists calling for reforms to fossil fuel policy.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a global body of policymakers formed by the United Nations, released its third and final climate change report this week in its sixth assessment to analyze the causes, impacts and remedies throughout the world.
The latest report focused on how ongoing human-driven pollution could affect climate change and evaluated efforts from nations to combat the effects.
More:Fluctuating oil prices do not hamper February oil and gas tax collections for Eddy County
A main source of the emissions, per the report, was the fossil fuel industry, which accounted for most of the U.S.’ 23 percent of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions between 1850 and 2019.
And even as technological advancements and evolving practices used in oil and gas operations were developed to capture more gas, the report argued that impact was less than the increase in air pollution caused by increasing extraction and other industrial activities along with worldwide economic growth.
“Emissions reductions in CO2 from fossil fuels and industrial processes, due to improvements in energy intensity of gross domestic product (GDP) and carbon intensity of energy, have been less than emissions increases from rising global activity levels in industry, energy supply, transport, agriculture and buildings,” the report read.
More:Permian Basin the site of oil and gas expansion to lower gas prices amid Russia conflict
In total, about a quarter of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions came from the energy sector in 2019, the report read.
Fossil fuel was mentioned 40 times in the report's 63-page summary for policymakers, and mitigating emissions from this industry was a frequent topic and suggested means of mitigating climate change.
New Mexico looks to reduce fossil fuel pollution. Is it enough?
To the State of New Mexico, that meant two separate rulemakings: one to retrofit oil and gas operations to capture 98 percent of produced gas by 2026 and end routine flaring, or the burning of excess gas, and another to increase monitoring, leak detection and repairs at oil and gas sites across the state.
More:Heinrich, U.S. senators urge Biden to transition from oil and gas amid Russia conflict
These efforts, environmentalists argued, must be joined by adequate funding for New Mexico’s Environment Department and its Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department – the two agencies tasked with enforcing the new rules.
But Jeremy Nichols with Santa Fe-based environmental group WildEarth Guardians said the IPCC report indicated such regulations, developed with input from oil and gas companies and trade groups, would not be enough to prevent a global climate crisis and New Mexico’s contribution.
He said the state and world should move past fossil fuels, seeking a transition to less-polluting energy sources like renewable power from wind and solar.
More:Permian Basin land sought after by oil and gas companies Russia conflict grows fuel demand
Nichols said that while New Mexico took some steps to address environmental damage caused by extraction, the State was still complicit in ongoing oil and gas operations and industrial growth.
Last year, New Mexico became the U.S.’ second-largest producer of oil – second only to Texas – and its operations centered in the Permian Basin region in the southeast continued to grow in step with recovering fuel demand at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic and supply disruptions amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“The latest IPCC report clearly confirms the need to rapidly transition from fossil fuels,” Nichols said. Unfortunately, while New Mexico has taken some steps to move beyond coal and encourage renewable energy development, the state continues to back unfettered oil and gas development.”
More:Permian Basin oil and gas pollution could boom amid Russia conflict
The environmental impacts of New Mexico oil and gas operations, which provide strong economic growth for local communities like Carlsbad and Hobbs in the southeast corner of the state and windfalls of revenue for State coffers, would be felt across the nation and world, Nichols said.
“This isn't just fueling more air and climate pollution within New Mexico but exporting massive amounts of greenhouse gas emissions to other states and even other countries,” he said.
“While New Mexico has taken steps to curb methane from oil and gas development, the latest IPCC report underscores that to truly confront the climate crisis, we need to start keeping fossil fuels in the ground.”
More:Oil and gas land sales in southeast New Mexico could resume after federal court ruling
Camilla Feibelman, director of the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club in New Mexico said the industry, despite the risk it poses to the environment and public safety, continued to hold an outsized role in state policy even amid increasing dire warnings from the international scientific community.
She worried industry lobbyists were able to block environmental bills like the Clean Future Act in this year’s legislative session that would have added benchmarks for greenhouse gas reductions.
That bill passed two committees in the New Mexico House of Representatives, but never saw a vote on the House Floor.
More:Oil and gas companies face $275K in fines for not reporting methane pollution in New Mexico
Another bill, the Clean Fuel Standard Act, would have required fuel producers to meet emission caps but was killed in a deadlocked vote on the House Floor that could have sent it to the governor’s desk.
And House Joint Memorial 2, which would have placed a ballot question before voters to codify “environmental rights” into state law was stalled in the House Judiciary Committee while the senate equivalent never advanced.
“Despite the urgency of the crisis facing our children and grandchildren, we continue to coddle an oil and gas industry that cuts jobs despite increasing profit and production,” Feibelman said. “We hear over and over from oil and gas giants how much we need them.
“The truth is that even across political ideologies, Americans say we need climate action and to end our dependence on oil and gas. No matter our political party.”
More:Permian Basin oil and gas could fill gap left by Russia's removal from global market
Feibelman pointed to a recent study from Stanford University reporting methane emissions in the Permian were higher than previously believed, accounting for an about 9 percent loss rate for natural gas produced during extraction of oil.
Addressing this source of air pollution should be at the forefront, she said, of stopping New Mexico role in the looming, global climate crisis.
“One of New Mexico's biggest sources of climate pollution — and one of our most powerful tools to act — is methane reduction,” Feibelman said.
“Methane is 80 times more powerful than carbon dioxide as a heat-trapping gas but disappears from the atmosphere much more quickly. That means slashing methane emissions can have a real and relatively rapid effect.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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Business briefs: Operation Easter Basket held by Western Commerce Bank
Albertsons in Carlsbad raises money for Special Olympics
Albertsons in Carlsbad raised about $22,000 as part of its fundraising efforts for Special Olympics. The store was first in the state among other Albertsons Market raising funds.
The store celebrated with an in-house event and ceremony.
Operation Easter Basket held by Western Commerce Bank
Western Commerce Bank is collecting donations to build Easter Baskets for the youth of Child Advocacy Centers in New Mexico. Children’s Advocacy Centers are a network of places throughout the state which offer a safe place to interview children who are suspected victims of abuse. The service areas that will receive Easter baskets will be located in Eddy, Lea, and Bernalillo counties.
From April 1 through April 13 donations can be dropped off at any Western Commerce Bank branch. Branch locations close to you can be easily found on our website www.wcb.net.
Suggested items from the Advocacy Center staff include play dough, small stuffed animals, small toys, movie, CORE, or Bio Park tickets, personal hygiene items like tooth brushes, tooth paste, and comfort items like fuzzy socks and hoodies of all sizes. Ages of the recipients of these Easter baskets will range from infants-18. Monetary donations from our community will be accepted as well.
For additional information, please contact Dianne Joop at 575-887-6686 ext. 2222 or djoop@wcb.net.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/07/ceremony-honoring-janell-whitlock-scheduled-friday/7255350001/
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Ceremony honoring Janell Whitlock scheduled for Friday
We hope you’ll join us on Friday for a very special ceremony honoring Janell Whitlock, who passed away last year. The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Friday in front of the Janell Whitlock Municipal Complex, 114 S. Halagueno Street. There will also be a bench dedication for Whitlock at 2 p.m. near the entrance to the Cascades. The public is invited to both events. Members of Janell’s family have traveled for many miles to visit us today, as have many of her close friends and former co-workers. Janell’s good friend and neighbor, Becky Thompson, will be providing food after the 11 a.m. ceremony. Becky celebrated her 80th birthday on Wednesday. Happy Birthday Becky!
Carlsbad’s City Council approved the renaming of the building in December. The building has three roles – as a courthouse, as the City Council chambers, and as the home of our planning and zoning offices. Janell played a critical role in all three processes during her incredible career in public service. She was a municipal judge, a City Councilor and a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Janell had many titles – she also served as a county commissioner and was the head of the Chamber’s retirement effort for many years, but all of those titles together don’t come close to capturing her as a person.
Janell cared deeply for the people around her. She was an ethical person, a capable person and a hard working person. She didn’t want any of the credit, but was always willing to do more than her share of the work. She always made a point of looking for newcomers in the community and sitting with them to make them feel welcome. She was well liked and respected across the entire state and nation, and for a good reason. During the last few years of her life, she was able to successfully obtain Carlsbad’s designation as an “Age Friendly Community.” The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce’s Age Friendly Council has done an outstanding job with continuing Janell’s legacy.
Future generations of Carlsbad residents won’t get the experience that we all had – of working with Janell directly. The best we can do is to share a little bit about Janell by naming this building in her memory. Let’s hope that those future generations – and, for that matter, those of us in the present, can all strive to be a little more like Janell Whitlock by making those around us feel welcome.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/07/cannabis-retailers-sort-out-supply-and-demand-but-water-tricky/9484197002/
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Cannabis retailers will sort out supply and demand but water will be tricky
On April Fool’s Day legal cannabis sellers opened their doors to recreational users. In the weeks before, speculation was endless. Will retailers have enough products? Will medical cannabis users be slighted? Is production at the right level for both? Is the state’s regulatory framework adequate?
To get an idea of what we’re in for, look at two other industries – hemp and gaming.
When hemp farming was legalized in 2019, supplies initially outstripped demand, and inexperienced growers found the work more demanding than they expected. The hemp market had to readjust, and the unfit didn’t survive.
The first casinos were so controversial that the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce (then the Association of Commerce and Industry) couldn’t take a position because members were divided. Casinos had a huge need for accountants, lawyers, construction, liquor and food services. The first casinos, crowded and busy, delivered windfalls to the early gaming tribes. Then casinos proliferated until they were all competing for the same customers, and some lost business. But they grew less controversial, and now they’re pretty much accepted in the business and entertainment landscape.
As an old business writer, I can safely predict that the cannabis industry and its host of startups, many of them small, will struggle with supply and demand, regulation and competition. Eventually, the business will sort itself out, become more predictable, and bless state coffers with new revenues. But not everybody will make it.
Another modest prediction: Cannibis shops will be a shot in the arm to retail. In cities and towns across the state, too many buildings sit shuttered. Some of those places will be cannabis outlets, and they could draw eateries, bakeries and galleries.
Duke Rodriguez, president and CEO of Ultra Health, has often said that tiny places like Texico and San Jon on the Texas state line could be cannabis hubs because our big neighbor is unlikely to legalize cannabis. Rodriguez is probably right, and driving through Texico last week, I tried to imagine that. I could also imagine Texas state troopers being very busy, just as our own state police were in the months after Colorado legalized pot.
This fledgling industry still faces some significant unfinished business. Namely, banking and water.
Banking is so critical to businesses that being unbanked is inconceivable, but most cannabis operations don’t have banks. The federal government doesn’t prohibit banks from serving cannabis businesses, but the risk of money laundering usually scares banks away.
That’s started to change.
In December U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union, New Mexico’s oldest credit union, became the nation’s first financial institution to be certified for banking protocols in cannabis and hemp operations. The program is under the nonprofit Policy Center for Public Health & Safety in collaboration with state attorneys general.
U.S. Eagle and Southwest Capital Bank both serve cannabis businesses through separate operations, each staffed with professionals expert in the industry’s particular regulatory and security issues. For that they charge higher fees. Now that these two institutions have broken trail, others will follow – cautiously.
Water could have been addressed in a cannabis law clean-up bill this year. How much water the industry might use is a serious question. The original cannabis bill required that growers show proof they have legal rights to water, but lawmakers removed language to that effect and instead said growers could lose their licenses if they use water illegally. Newbie growers unfamiliar with state water laws might be using domestic wells to irrigate a commercial crop or they might be leaning on municipal water. The New Mexico Acequia Association, among other groups, insisted on verification language, but the bill died on adjournment.
New Mexico had years to watch Colorado, but this will still be a learning experience for business people, regulators, legislators and cops. A clean-up bill will be back next year and for years to come.
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20220407
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/08/abandoned-oil-and-gas-wells-spread-out-through-new-mexico-permian-san-juan-joe-biden/9486765002/
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Abandoned oil and gas wells spread out through New Mexico's Permian, San Juan basins
When oil and gas wells are shut down and abandoned, dangers to local communities and the environment linger.
Both of New Mexico’s oil-producing regions: the Permian Basin in the southeast and San Juan Basin in the northwest have scores of inactive wells, per a recent study by the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance, and could be running afoul of state law.
The Albuquerque-based environmental group, citing its own data on alleged inactive wells, called on the federal Bureau of Land Management to audit inactive oil and gas wells on federally-leased public land.
More:Fluctuating oil prices do not hamper February oil and gas tax collections for Eddy County
The group hoped the audit would show if the wells identified in the Alliance’s study were in compliance, or not, with regulations.
About 6,000 wells across the state were identified as not having produced oil or gas in the last year, per the study, including 2,600 on federal land.
The study pointed to 100 wells it said hadn’t produced in 15 years.
“Orphaned” wells with no active owner on file, wells that have expired approvals for temporary abandonment, and others with abandonment authorizations were listed in the study.
More:Permian Basin the site of oil and gas expansion to lower gas prices amid Russia conflict
In the Permian, the wells in question were scattered throughout Eddy, Lea and Chaves counties.
In total, there were 68 orphaned wells and 16 wells with expired abandonment approvals, per the study.
There were also 124 oil and gas leases provided to companies, accounting for 55,792 acres, in the area the study alleged were in violation of abandonment regulations at other facilities in the region.
More:Heinrich, U.S. senators urge Biden to transition from oil and gas amid Russia conflict
All 124 leases overlap big game priority areas, per the study, and 15 of the leases overlap possible wilderness areas.
In the northwest San Juan Basin, there were no abandoned wells between San Juan, Rio Arriba and Sandoval counties, but there were 42 wells the study alleged had temporary abandonment approval without adequate justification.
Researchers for the study found one well in Rio Arriba where abandonment authorization was expired.
More:Permian Basin land sought after by oil and gas companies Russia conflict grows fuel demand
Along with the study and call for an audit of the wells, the Wilderness Alliance contended the BLM should not process or authorize any new applications to permit drill or rights of way needed for oil and gas operations until the agency determines which of its leases in New Mexico were in violation and should be canceled.
Some of the largest operators in both regions owned some of these wells, the study read, including Chevron, Devon Energy, EOG Resources, Hilcorp, Occidental Petroleum and XTO Energy – a subsidiary of ExxonMobil.
Mark Allison, executive director of the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance said all unused oil and gas wells posed dangers to the environment and local community.
More:Permian Basin oil and gas pollution could boom amid Russia conflict
“With the climate and extinction crises worsening, the number of inactive wells in the state is staggering,” he said. “It is our hope that this letter will help BLM officials identify inactive wells that need to be cleaned-up immediately, along with leases that were unlawfully issued to bad actors.”
Allison said the federal government and administration of President Joe Biden should enact reforms to prevent future wells from being abandoned, policy like increasing bonding paid by operators to fund well cleanup and stricter requirements.
“For too long, the oil and gas industry has lined its wallets at the expense of our lands, wildlife, and water sources,” he said. “Given the Biden administration’s commitment to slowing the affects of climate change, now is the time to act.”
More:Oil and gas' role in climate change highlighted in global report. How can New Mexico help?
Funding for abandoned oil wells coming from federal, state leaders
Biden’s Interior Department in March announced $4.7 billion in federal funding was included in the recent infrastructure bill passed into law, with the first $775 million in funding being made available to states – up to $25 million grants – this year.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said the federal initiative would help clean up pollution throughout the U.S. in oil-producing states like Haaland’s native New Mexico.
“We are committed to getting these funds to states and communities as quickly as possible to confront legacy pollution and long-standing environmental injustices that have been allowed to fester for far too long,” Haaland said.
“With so many communities looking forward to this program, we are eager to hear from diverse voices to review and provide feedback on this draft guidance.”
More:Oil and gas companies face $275K in fines for not reporting methane pollution in New Mexico
In January, the State of New Mexico announced it was eligible for up to $43.7 million in federal funds for the work, estimating there were up to 1,700 orphaned or abandoned wells throughout the state.
With current funding, New Mexico’s Oil Conservation Division (OCD) was able to plug about 50 wells a year, records show, but hoped to increase that number “significantly” using the federal dollars.
Sarah Cottrell Propst, cabinet secretary of the State’s Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department – the OCD’s parent agency – said the funding would help improve the Department’s ability to address the problem.
“The state’s successful and well-established plugging program will now reach more sites across the state,” Propst said. “These funds will allow us to move quickly to clean up a serious backlog of orphaned wells.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/2022/04/08/remembering-janell-whitlock-leader-carlsbad-community/9501485002/
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Remembering Janell Whitlock as a leader in the Carlsbad community
We hope you’ll join us on Friday for a very special ceremony honoring Janell Whitlock, who passed away last year. The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Friday in front of the Janell Whitlock Municipal Complex, 114 S. Halagueno Street. There will also be a bench dedication for Whitlock at 2 p.m. near the entrance to the Cascades. The public is invited to both events. Members of Janell’s family have traveled for many miles to visit us today, as have many of her close friends and former co-workers. Janell’s good friend and neighbor, Becky Thompson, will be providing food after the 11 a.m. ceremony. Becky celebrated her 80th birthday on Wednesday. Happy Birthday Becky!
Carlsbad’s City Council approved the renaming of the building in December. The building has three roles – as a courthouse, as the City Council chambers, and as the home of our planning and zoning offices. Janell played a critical role in all three processes during her incredible career in public service. She was a municipal judge, a City Councilor and a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Janell had many titles – she also served as a county commissioner and was the head of the Chamber’s retirement effort for many years, but all of those titles together don’t come close to capturing her as a person.
Janell cared deeply for the people around her. She was an ethical person, a capable person and a hard working person. She didn’t want any of the credit, but was always willing to do more than her share of the work. She always made a point of looking for newcomers in the community and sitting with them to make them feel welcome. She was well liked and respected across the entire state and nation, and for a good reason. During the last few years of her life, she was able to successfully obtain Carlsbad’s designation as an “Age Friendly Community.” The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce’s Age Friendly Council has done an outstanding job with continuing Janell’s legacy.
Future generations of Carlsbad residents won’t get the experience that we all had – of working with Janell directly. The best we can do is to share a little bit about Janell by naming this building in her memory. Let’s hope that those future generations – and, for that matter, those of us in the present, can all strive to be a little more like Janell Whitlock by making those around us feel welcome.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway
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https://www.currentargus.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currentargus.com%2Fstory%2Fnews%2F2022%2F04%2F08%2Feddy-county-taxable-land-values-increase-oil-and-gas-expansion%2F7249947001%2F&gnt-tng-s=1
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20220408
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/2022/04/09/carlsbad-athletes-honored-new-mexico-activities-association/9516407002/
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Carlsbad athletes honored by New Mexico Activities Association
Two members of Carlsbad High School’s athletic program have made the news lately for positive accomplishments. Wrestler Jesse Fuentes was named by the NMAA as the Class 5A Wrestler of the Year. New Mexico’s coaches selected him for that honor. The state champion was also selected to New Mexico’s “Wrestling Dream Team.” Carlsbad has had a strong wrestling program for a very long time – and Fuentes is a continuation of that legacy.
Cavegirl head softball coach Brian Santo was also recently featured in an article by the New Mexico Activities Association. You can read the article here: https://www.nmact.org/2022/04/it-was-softball-that-brought-me-back-brian-santo-carlsbad-head-coach/
Coach Santo talks about spending 70 days in the hospital with COVID-19, including 36 on an incubator. He left the hospital on Dec. 31. His daughter, assistant coach Brianna Santo, helped keep everything going, and members of the team were motivated by his recovery. The Cavegirls, as of Thursday, have a perfect 14-0 record and are the No. 1 team in the state. Congratulations to the Santo family and the Cavegirls on their success.
***
The Carlsbad Community Anti-Drug/Gang Coalition has been very busy. The Coalition is part of a 2022 New Mexico Community Survey, which is sponsored by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation and the Office of Substance Abuse Prevention. Taking the survey registers you to win $100 or $500. The survey is available here: https://tinyurl.com/2022NMCS
The Anti-Drug/Gang Coalition is also hosting a Spring Fling April 23 at the Beach Bandshell, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteers, vendors and event sponsors are all needed. For more information, contact Tony Baca at (575) 885-2111 or Samantha Smith at (505) 634-8610. You can sign up for a booth at: Carlsbadcoalition.com/spring
***
This week’s New Mexico Special Session went about as expected. Legislators approved a revised $50 million supplemental spending bill for community projects. Here in Carlsbad, this includes funding for improvement to the Riverwalk Recreation Center and police department vehicles. Additionally, nearly $700 million in cash rebates were approved, with single NM taxpayers getting $500 and joint fliers $1,000.
Certainly, any rebate to the public is a positive, but let’s not ever forget that those rebates are only possible because of the oil and gas work going on in Eddy and Lea County. We continue to hope that northern New Mexico legislators will remain aware of why such a rebate is possible in future legislative sessions.
***
Thank you to everyone who turned out for the dedication of the Janell Whitlock Municipal Complex on Friday, including the Carlsbad Veterans Honor Guard, Scott Meador, Voncile King and Steve McCutcheon. Speakers were Tony Hernandez, Bob Forrest, Gary Perkowski, Collis Johnson and members of Janell’s family. It was a wonderful event for an outstanding citizen. Janell is deeply missed.
Sincerely, Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway
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https://www.currentargus.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currentargus.com%2Fstory%2Fnews%2F2022%2F04%2F09%2Fcity-carlsbad-dedicates-building-late-janell-whitlock%2F9462209002%2F&gnt-tng-s=1
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20220409
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https://www.currentargus.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currentargus.com%2Fstory%2Fnews%2F2022%2F04%2F09%2Fconcerns-aired-project-connect-major-southeast-new-mexico-roads-department-transportation%2F9462152002%2F&gnt-tng-s=1
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20220409
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/09/abnormal-event-reported-carlsbad-nuclear-waste-repository-waste-isolation-pilot-plant/9531100002/
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Workers evacuated from area of Carlsbad nuclear waste repository after 'abnormal event'
An incident at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant nuclear waste repository near Carlsbad led to the evacuation of workers Saturday night from an area of the facility where waste is prepared for disposal.
The incident was reported at about 8:20 p.m. in the waste handling building.
As a drum of waste was being processed, liquid was found at the bottom of the container which tested positive for radioactive contamination, per a news release from WIPP officials.
All personnel in the area were evacuated and tested for contamination, and operations were temporarily paused.
No radioactive contamination was found on any person or in the air as of 10 p.m., per the news release.
Workers were not in the underground at the time of the incident, the release read.
No radiation was released from the site, and there was no risk to the public, read the news release.
WIPP’s Emergency Operations Center and Joint Information Center were activated at the Skeen-Whitlock building in Carlsbad to respond to the incident that occurred at the facility east of Carlsbad near the border of Eddy and Lea counties.
More:Nuke waste shipments to New Mexico from Idaho to increase after retrieval project completed
“The activation occurred as a result of an abnormal event during routine waste handling at the WIPP site, located 26 miles east of Carlsbad, New Mexico,” read the release.
The public was encouraged to follow WIPP on Twitter or Facebook for updates as the incident is investigated.
More:Nuclear waste disposal mission at facility near Carlsbad could be imperiled by delays
Waste handling activities at WIPP involve moving nuclear waste into the facility and transporting it about 2,000 feet underground for permanent disposal in an underground salt deposit.
The waste disposed of at WIPP is classified as transuranic (TRU) waste – clothes and equipment irradiated during nuclear activities at U.S. Department of Energy sites throughout the country.
The last major incident at WIPP occurred in 2014, when an incorrectly-packagdrum of waste shipped from Los Alamos National Laboratory in northern New Mexico ruptured due to a chemical reaction.
More:Infections decline after COVID-19 disrupts nuke waste disposal at repository near Carlsbad
The resulting radiation release contaminated parts of the WIPP underground and led to a three-year shutdown of the facility’s primary operations: waste disposal and mining.
The site reopened and began accepting waste again in 2017, with some areas of the underground remaining restricted and requiring workers to wear breathing apparatuses when entering.
This story will be updated as more information is made available.
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/entertainment/books/2022/04/11/learn-secrets-poisoners-bradburys-entertaining-and-grizzly-book/7282610001/
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Learn the secrets of poisoners in Bradbury's entertaining and grisly book
Are you one of the legions of fiction readers who enjoys a little murder, mayhem, and suspense from the safety and comfort of your favorite chair? If so, you’ve no doubt read many a mystery novel hinging on the criminal’s administration of poison to kill a victim—be it a lethal dose of arsenic, strychnine, or perhaps cyanide. Neil Bradbury, Ph.D., author of “A Taste for Poison: 11 Deadly Molecules and the Killers Who Used Them,” highlights the science and detective work leading to the capture of real-life criminals in poisoning crimes.
“Poisons can be delivered to a victim through four routes,” Bradbury says. “They may be eaten or drunk and enter the body through the intestine; inhaled into the lungs; absorbed directly through the skin; or injected into the body.” Different poisonous substances cause harm in different ways, he adds; for example, some affect the respiratory system, causing the victim to stop breathing; others may injure the nervous system, “disrupting the highly sophisticated electrical signaling that controls the normal functions of the body,” among other fatal effects.
In his chapter on nightshades, Bradbury notes that while people find many plants in the nightshade family healthful and tasty, such as chili peppers and tomatoes (hello, salsa!), one particular nightshade—Atropa belladonna—is absolutely deadly. A single berry of the plant can cause death, he warns, but because they taste so bad, people rarely consume them by accident.
“The belladonna part of Atropa belladonna comes from the Italian bella donna, meaning ‘beautiful lady,’” explains Bradbury, adding that the name relates to the Venetian women who historically applied a little bit of belladonna berry juice into their eyes to dilate their pupils and make themselves appear more alluring.
So how does a murder use the extracted poison (atropine) from the plant if it tastes so bad nobody willingly consumes it? Bradbury tells of one would-be murderer, a Scottish biology professor named Paul Agutter, who disguised the bitter flavor of atropine with tonic water. The reason? He wanted out of his marriage. However, he didn’t want the murder easily linked back to him, so he also put weak atropine doses into a number of tonic water bottles (enough to make people sick but not kill them) and stealthily returned them to store shelves. He hoped that by causing an “outbreak” of atropine poisoning, his own wife’s death would be less likely to be linked to him.
Agutter then concocted a lethal dose for his wife, disguising it in a glass of gin and the same brand of tonic water he had tampered with at the store. It tasted so bad she drank only a portion of it, and although it made her very ill, she survived, thwarting his plans. Agutter carried on with his deception anyway, and appeared to cooperate with police. He even publicly called for the poisoner to surrender himself to the authorities! His mistake was in not disposing of the tonic water he had prepared for his wife to drink—forensic scientists determined it had many times the amount of poison as the bottles of the same brand from the grocery store, and realized Agutter had invented the “serial poisoner” scheme to hide the attempted murder.
Readers who enjoy mystery fiction, true crime stories, or popular science titles will want to check out Bradbury’s intriguing and educational book to learn more about this topic. It’s available to borrow in print format at Carlsbad Public Library.
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Finding, practicing authentic religious devotion to Christ
When it comes to Salvation, simply being a Christian may not be enough. In the Seventh Chapter of Matthew, near the end of what is commonly referred to as the “Sermon on the Mount,” Jesus says very clearly, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many deeds of power in your name?' Then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; go away from me, you evildoers.'”
These are harsh words and Jesus intended them to speak to all those who choose religion over relationship. Despite its powerful claims to authority, power, prestige, and prominence, much of the Christian religion is an idolatrous appeal to a false god. Jesus understood that many who would claim the name of Christ, embrace a vehement religious fervor, and accept a well-defined ritualistic tradition in Christ’s name, and embrace a legalistic adherence to church doctrine would presumably assume their fidelity in Christ would be a guarantee of Salvation.
The Bible never endorses a particular doctrinal tradition, a church denomination, a plan of Salvation, a so-called “sinner’s prayer,” or a definitive ritual which will guarantee one’s salvation. Rather, what Christ calls for is a life of humility, service, compassion, grace, and forgiveness.
Unfortunately, many religiously deceived Christians believe that simply confessing Jesus Christ and praying the right pray will guarantee Salvation. Jesus did say that it is only through him that one could come to God. Yet, many in the church have mistakenly preached that “through Jesus” means only by means of the particular church doctrine, confession, and tradition by which a particular congregation understands the Gospel. This is, however, a misunderstanding of Jesus’ teaching. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Nobody gets to God except through Jesus. However, the discerning factor is Christ himself, not the doctrines of a church organized as a human institution in Christ’s name. Christ, and Christ alone, know the heart, the motivation, the spirit, and the true inclinations of the person. Regardless of how faithful a person may look in the judgment of the leadership and membership of the congregation, its traditions, its customs, its doctrines, and its interpretation of Scripture, only Jesus Christ truly knows the authenticity of the heart and the motivations of the spirit.
Biblical Salvation has nothing to do with praying the right prayers, reading the right interpretation of scripture, following the right creed, adherence to the right doctrine, or looking good before the people of one’s religious traditions. Rather, Salvation hinges on having one’s heart right with God according to God’s terms. We must remember that Jesus Christ, not the church, its leaders, its traditions, its judgments, or its doctrine, are the judge of the human heart.
It has been said that when one gets to heaven there will be three surprises. The first is the relief that one actually made it there. The second is that the surprise of who actually made it there as well. The third is the realization of who never made it at all.
Christians need to remember that Salvation is based on Christ’s terms and not on the traditions, doctrines, judgments, creeds, and decrees of the beautiful, yet vastly imperfect institutions of human religion. As Christians it is more important that we seek to live in the example of Christ rather than pledge devotion to the idolatrous worship of the Church.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/12/oil-flowing-permian-basin-heels-covid-19-russia-ukraine-conflict-texas-new-mexico-fossil-fuel/9499304002/
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Oil and gas flowing from Permian Basin on heels of COVID-19, Russia-Ukraine conflict
A crude oil pipeline shipping oil from the Permian Basin to export markets along the Gulf Coast reported last week it was moving about half a million barrels a day across Texas to the Corpus Christi area throughout 2022 so far.
EPIC Crude Holdings first built the pipeline in 2017 to stretch 700 miles from the Permian Basin in southeast New Mexico and West Texas to the coast in southeast Texas.
The 30-inch line extends from Orla, Texas in the Permian to the Port of Corpus Christi, serving operators in the Permian’s Delaware and Midland sub-basins and the Eagle Ford Basin in southern Texas.
More:Fluctuating oil prices do not hamper February oil and gas tax collections for Eddy County
The pipeline has a capacity of 600,000 barrels per day, and storage of 7.5 million barrels throughout its network of terminals throughout Texas in Orla, Pecos, Crane, Wink, Midland, Hobson and Gardendale.
EPIC Chief Executive Officer Brian Freed said the system was intended and continue to take advantage of heavy ongoing growth in Permian Basin oil production.
"Our crude volume throughput proves EPIC’s strategic importance for customers to provide safe and reliable crude oil transport out of the Delaware, Midland and Eagle Ford basins into the Corpus Christi market,” Freed said.
“We have strategically positioned ourselves to take advantage of the growth we are seeing in the Permian basin and the Corpus Christi premium export markets.”
More:Abandoned oil and gas wells spread out through New Mexico's Permian, San Juan basins
Along with shipping large quantities of fossil fuels to market in recent months, the Permian was also the site of billions of dollars in land and asset sales this year, as energy companies sought to capitalize on growing fuel demands via expansive oil and gas deposits in the region.
The latest was a $624 million sale of a Permian-focused subsidiary of Denver-based midstream company 3Bear Energy to Delek Logistics of Tennessee.
Included in the sale were all of 3Bear’s assets in the region which include about 350,000 acres, 485 miles of pipelines, 88 million cubic feet per day of natural gas processing capacity, 120,000 barrels of crude oil storage capacity and 200,000 barrels per day of water disposal.
More:Permian Basin the site of oil and gas expansion to lower gas prices amid Russia conflict
The transaction was meant to increase Delek’s presence in the Permian Basin, which CEO Uzi Yemin said was one of the “most prolific” oil and gas regions in the world.
He said the company’s existing gathering system in the Permian increased from 83,000 barrels per day at the end of 2021 to 135,000 barrels per day in the first quarter of 2022, growth Yemin said warranted an expansion of operations in the region.
“We are excited to expand our operations in one of the most prolific oil and gas producing basins, providing long-term growth that is highly complementary to Delek Logistics' current asset footprint,” he said.
“This level of growth and demand from producers provides us with confidence to move forward with this transaction."
More:Heinrich, U.S. senators urge Biden to transition from oil and gas amid Russia conflict
Energy market continues to shift due to COVID-19, global tension
Demand for U.S. oil fluctuated upward in recent months amid recovering demand as COVID-19 appeared to subside and escalating tensions overseas.
In February, Russia launched a military invasion of neighboring Ukraine and the aggressor nation and its leader Vladimir Putin were widely condemned by world leaders including the U.S.
President Joe Biden imposed a ban on Russian oil imports and nations across the world sought to remove Russia – the world’s second-biggest oil producer – from the global economy.
More:Permian Basin land sought after by oil and gas companies Russia conflict grows fuel demand
This increased pressure on U.S. producers and its most active oilfield in the Permian, to fill in the gap left by Russia’s apparent exit from the world energy market.
As U.S. extraction operations were still rebuilding from a decline in production during COVID-19, supply was outpaced by demand and energy prices skyrocketed, leading to American gas prices climbing to more than $4 or more per gallon throughout the country.
Oil prices feel slightly to about $94 a barrel as of Monday, per the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, after maintaining in the triple digits for most of last month with a peak at about $123 a barrel on March 8.
In response to the heightened demand, oil companies across the world sought to up their operations.
The Permian Basin added nine oil and gas rigs in the last week for a total of 332, with Texas adding 11 rigs for its total of 342 of Friday, per the latest data from Baker Hughes.
New Mexico held steady for another week with 96 oil and gas rigs, records show.
More:Permian Basin oil and gas pollution could boom amid Russia conflict
An April 7 report from global energy analysis firm Rystad Energy showed global energy spending to climb to more than $2 trillion – a record high – in 2022, led by oil and gas.
Upstream oil and gas spending was expected to climb by $142 billion, or 16 percent, compared with last year, oil producers seek to increase output, the study read.
Increased spending was also partially driven by global inflation of supply and labor costs, read the study, and higher shipping rates in response to sanctions against Russia.
Compared with 2020, Rystad reported, oil and gas project costs rose this year by 10 percent and 20 percent, respectively, mostly because of higher steel prices.
Audun Martinsen, head of energy services research at Rystad said spending levels in the energy sector this year were the highest in eight years.
“The world is now spending more on energy than ever before,” Martinsen said. “The year 2014 was the last time we saw similar numbers. However, expenditure on other fossil fuels, such as coal, has remained constant.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is upon us
The week of April 10-16 has been dedicated as “National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week,” here and across the nation. This weeklong event was originally set up in 1981 by Patricia Anderson of the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office in California.
It’s a good time to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Being a telecommunicator/dispatcher is an extremely important job, and it is also a tough job. There’s no easy way to describe the daily job of a dispatcher, because there’s no average day, but they always have to remain calm while working with members of the public and while working with their fellow law enforcement officers. When dispatchers keep a clear head, they save lives. Of course, we’re especially proud of our telecommunicators with the Carlsbad Police Department. Thank you again to all of our telecommunicators.
As reported, there was a small incident at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant over the weekend. During routine processing of a TRUPACT-II, it was discovered that there was a small amount of freestanding liquid in the bottom of the shipping container. This liquid tested for low levels of radioactive contamination. Operations were paused and the area where the processing was taking place was evacuated.
According to the press release, there was no workforce contamination and no signs of airborne release. The waste containers were placed back inside of the TRUPACT-II.
Everyone at WIPP did a good job of handling this issue as safely as possible. We especially appreciate the high level of communication on the part of the Department of Energy and Nuclear Waste Partnership. Quickly providing accurate information kept rumors from spreading, and the issue was promptly resolved.
Trevor Rogers pitched five innings on Sunday in a 3-2 loss to the Giants. Rogers gave up six hits on three strikeouts and two earned runs in his opening trip to the mound this year. The Miami Marlins are now 1-2. All three games in the opening series against the Giants were decided by one run.
Correction: Carlsbad wrestler Jake Fuentes was named by the NMAA as the Class 5A Wrestlers of the Year. We had the incorrect first name listed in Sunday’s edition. Congratulations again to Jake on his incredible accomplishment. Congratulations again to softball coach Ron Santo, who was intubated (on a ventilator) for 36 days for COVID-19, but has now recovered and is leading the Cavegirl softball team.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/12/new-mexico-could-take-lessons-texas-heritage-tourism-program/7282541001/
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New Mexico could take lessons from Texas heritage tourism program
When my son drove his family, including his in-laws, to see Carlsbad Caverns, they were as fascinated by the pump jacks as they were by the caves. They’d never seen these bobbing creatures, but you won’t find one in a “New Mexico True” advertisement.
That’s one of many differences between how New Mexico and Texas promote themselves to tourists. Listening to a presentation on the Texas Heritage Trails Program at a recent historical conference in Lubbock, I thought we could learn from them.
Texas touts “heritage tourism” through driving trails in ten regions of the state. While the Texas Historical Commission is the initiative’s umbrella organization, the regions are partnerships among the state, local governments and private entities. A line item in the state’s budget pays the salaries of executive directors of each trail region, and they raise money through events, memberships and grants.
These regional executive directors are one of the program’s strengths. At the conference we heard from four of them. They’re energetic multi-taskers who work with individual sites and communities to help get the word out. “We sit on boards. We do hospitality trainings. We design websites,” said one young woman. They staff booths in city events and the state fair. “We’re outside of our region and pushing people into our regions.”
The trails structure embraces ALL the attractions and assets in a region. The Pecos Trail, for example, features the Permian Basin as well as the Goodnight-Loving Trail, Judge Roy Bean in Langtry along with Monahans Sandhills. Each region promotes its state and national parks, small towns, recreation areas, museums, historic districts, festivals, art, battlefields and Main Street cities.
The notion of heritage embraces ranching, oil, early railroads, rock art, and border radio stations.
It all began in 1968 with the Hemisfair, a kind of World’s Fair, in San Antonio that brought international visitors to the city. Texas boosters pondered how to keep them longer and draw them into the rural areas. Gov. John Connelly introduced Texas Travel Trails – ten driving trails mapped out with recreation and historic sites marked by signs. Connelly pointed to a desk-top picture of his wife wearing a blue dress and told aides the signs should be “Nellie blue.” The signs guide visitors to this day.
Closest to New Mexico are the Mountain Trail, Pecos Trail and Plains Trail regions.
Connelly dedicated the first trail, the six-county Mountain Trail, in 1968 by driving the loop in a caravan of dignitaries flanked by state troopers. It included Alpine, El Paso, Fort Davis, Marathon, Marfa, and Van Horn. Its biggest attractions are Big Bend and Guadalupe national parks.
Texas views these efforts as economic development through history and heritage, a remarkable perspective. That, according to a brochure, encourages local preservation and statewide marketing to increase visitation, which in turn protects the state’s historic resources.
“It’s a truly rural program and depends on small communities,” said Tammie Virden, executive director of the Texas Forts Trail.
This is another of the program’s strengths. The executive directors are all posted in small communities, not distant cities, so it’s not top-down but a community-up effort in which locals communicate with each other. The executive directors are available to help local sites or chambers or friends groups with ideas or technical assistance.
In New Mexico, rural communities get a little advertising from the state, but they mostly toot their own horn, and it’s a small horn. There’s some regional promotion, but it lacks the all-in-this-together feeling of the Texas program.
We in New Mexico are a little snobbish about our attractions and think we easily outshine Texas. That may be so, but without effective promotion, we’re Cinderella in the attic.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/12/night-and-day-sandra-day-oconnor-and-ketanji-brown-jackson-confirmation-hearings/7282356001/
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Night and Day: Sandra Day O'Connor and Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmation hearings
In September 1981, I was a mom with three young children, facing a divorce. It wasn’t the best time for me. Yet I remember turning on my record player (yes, a turntable) and playing Helen Reddy’s “I am Woman Hear Me Roar.”
I played it over and over.
On Thursday, I did the same thing. This time it played on my phone, with EarPods.
Two occasions, 40 years apart, I was celebrating firsts! The first woman confirmed to the Supreme Court, Sandra Day O’Connor. Now, the first Black woman being confirmed. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmed 53-47.
I felt the joy among women everywhere. Certainly, in my own heart, the hearts of my daughters, and granddaughters. I could feel the spirits of women like Mary Walters, the first woman on the New Mexico Supreme Court and the iconic Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg. I even imagined the secret delight of current Justices Sotomayor and Kagan. This was coupled with knowing that the ancestors of Harriet Tubman and Ida Mae Wells – who fought fearlessly against the bonds and brutality of slavery – were also celebrating.
In that moment, I thanked the suffragettes who fought for women’s right to vote – the reason the vote was announced by the first ever woman vice president – a woman of color.
Justice O’Connor and Justice Jackson have different histories. O’Connor, a Republican, was born in El Paso, a fair distance from the family ranch in Duncan, Arizona, where she would spend her childhood.
Jackson, a Democrat, was born in urban Washington, D. C. She grew up in Miami, where her parents were teachers in their early careers.
Both attended prestigious schools – Stanford Law for O’Connor and Harvard Law for Jackson.
O’Connor graduated in a time when gender denied women professional opportunities. Her first job in a County Attorney’s office came only after she offered to work for no pay and agreed to share an office with a secretary.
For Jackson, professional opportunities were numerous. With outstanding credentials, she was immediately accepted as a law clerk in the U. S. District Court, then U. S. Appeals Court, and eventually clerked for Supreme Court Justice Steven Breyer.
Likewise, their confirmation hearings were vastly different. O’Connor’s hearing was the first confirmation to be aired on national television. Nominated by President Reagan, O’Connor faced gentle headwinds. A few Southern Senators, including Sen. Jesse Helms, R-North Carolina, and Sen. Don Nickles. R-Oklahoma, voiced displeasure to the president. Their objections centered on O’Connor’s views on Roe v. Wade.
In her hearings, however, they were respectful, cordial. No one twisted her record into something it was not; their questions were relevant and reasonable.
She was confirmed 99-0.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s hearings, also televised, were another story. She arrived with an infectious smile and an opening story, which told of her love for “equal justice under law.”
It didn’t take long for some senators to make it a blatant political spectacle. Initially there were compliments from Sens. Graham, Hawley, and Cruz about her accomplishments. But their questioning quickly became disrespectful, if not distasteful. They twisted her record – repeating debunked lies about her sentencing history. They interrupted, pointed fingers.
Jackson remained polite and composed throughout it all.
Thankfully, at one point in the committee hearings, Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, reminded us of the joy and hope. History was being made. A Black woman, highly qualified, taking her place on the highest court. He recounted the story of Harriet Tubman, who looked to the North Star as a harbinger of hope,
“Today,” he said, “You are my North Star, my harbinger of hope.”
For me, she was that woman in Helen Reddy’s lyrics…roaring for all of us.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/13/southeast-new-mexico-college-celebrates-independence-new-mexico-state-university-carlsbad-education/7283649001/
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Southeast New Mexico College celebrates independence from New Mexico State University
Students, teachers, staff and local leaders gathered at the newly-christened Southeast New Mexico College on Monday afternoon to celebrate its reopening under the new name after being declared independent from New Mexico State University.
Formally known as NMSU Carlsbad, the college served as one of the university’s satellite locations for decades but leaders in Carlsbad recently sought to separate from the system so as to better respond to local needs for workforce training.
The college’s independence was codified into New Mexico state law during last year’s legislative session in Santa Fe, with the passage of House Bill 212, sponsored by local lawmakers Reps. Cathrynn Brown (R-55) of Carlsbad and Jim Townsend (R-54) of Artesia.
More:NMSU Board of Regents discuss property transfer to SENMC
The bill passed the House 62 to 7, and the Senate unanimously and it was signed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham following the session.
Monday’s event commemorated the brand switch, with new signs going up throughout the campus on the north end of Carlsbad.
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway as he addressed the crowd gathered at the front entrance of the college, thanked the project’s supporters for an effort he said would help the city’s workforce for years to come.
More:Getting ready for college or looking to return to school? Check out these scholarships
He read a proclamation at the event, declaring April 11, 2022 as the college’s “Independence Day.”
“The independence of Southeast New Mexico College is a great victory for Carlsbad, but it is also a great victory for the democratic process,” he said. “It shows that you can make the world a better place if you want to. All you have to do is roll up your sleeves and fight for it.”
NMSU Carlsbad was first established in 1950, the earliest of what grew to become a five-campus system including colleges in Alamogordo in 1958, Grants in 1968 and Dona Ana County Community College in 1973 joining the main campus in Las Cruces that was established in 1888.
More:Southeast New Mexico College board selects Dr. Andrew Nwanne as interim president
As Carlsbad began grow with recent expansions in local oil and gas development throughout southeast New Mexico’s Permian Basin region, local leaders aimed to collaborate with energy companies and other industries to develop targeted training that could be adjusted quicker based on local needs.
In separating from NMSU, the college became completely independent and elected its own Board of Trustees last year who took office in January.
“It is a very exciting time,” Brown said. “We’ve been working on it for a long time.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/13/new-mexico-endangered-species-federal-funds-us-senate-house-congress-conservation/9511297002/
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Funds on the way for New Mexico's endangered species through US Senate bill, grants
A bill aimed at supporting some of the America’s most imperiled plant and animal species passed a Senate committee last week after it was introduced by New Mexico U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM).
The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act was also sponsored by U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO) and was passed April 7 by the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.
It was introduced in July 2021 and assigned to the committee in January.
The legislation would fund about $1.3 billion annually in species conservation, enough to support 12,000 species nationwide, Heinrich said.
More:Ted Turner-owned land in southern New Mexico conserved in federal military deal
Another $97.5 million in annual dollars would go to Indigenous nations for similar work, covering about 140 million acres of land.
The bill would also require species recovery efforts be led by state agencies through by State Wildlife Action Plans approved by Congress.
More:Feds will not protect imperiled native Pecos River turtle after decades of debate
In New Mexico, that means funding for animals like the endangered Texas hornshell mussel, or potentially the lesser prairie chicken for which a listing decision was expected this year.
Records show New Mexico has 116 species listed for state protections, with more than 70 listed federally.
New Mexico has about 4,500 native species, the fourth-most among U.S. states.
More:Wolf recovery efforts in New Mexico criticized as population growth slows
Heinrich estimated the bill would speed up recovery efforts for 1,600 species that are already listed as endangered of threatened – statuses that grant federal protection under the Endangered Species Act.
It also would direct any fines paid for violations of environmental laws to support the bill’s provisions.
An equivalent bill was sponsored by U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) in the U.S. House of Representatives and was passed in January by the House Committee on Natural Resources.
More:Biden signs Congress' $1.5T federal spending plan. How will it support eastern New Mexico?
Upon the Act’s recent passage, Heinrich said it had bipartisan support and he hoped it would be passed by the full Senate in the coming months and be signed into law.
“Without enough resources, state, and Tribal wildlife agencies have been forced to pick and choose which species are worth saving,” Heinrich said.
“Instead of doing the proactive work that is necessary to maintain healthy wildlife populations on the front end, they have been forced into using reactive measures to rescue species after they are listed as threatened or endangered.”
More:New Mexico congresspeople help push bill to fund wildlife recovery through U.S. House
He said the federal government so far lacked adequate funding to protect endangered or threatened species in New Mexico and throughout the U.S.
“We urgently need to change this paradigm and save thousands of species with a solution that matches the magnitude of the challenge,” Heinrich said. “The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act offers us a constructive path forward.”
Blunt said species and habitat conservation could support industries like hunting and fishing, and the bill would encourage states and Indigenous organization to take the lead on such activities.
More:Feds release plan to restore rare New Mexico mouse after years of debate with landowners
“Protecting habitats and wildlife is not only important to states like Missouri – with some of the best hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in the country – it’s important to communities all across the nation,” Blunt said.
“By encouraging states, territories, and Tribes to make significant contributions to voluntary conservation efforts, we can preserve our nation’s wildlife for future generations.”
The legislation was widely supported by conservation groups both in New Mexico and across the U.S.
More:Carlsbad Caverns' bat guano mining history revealed by explosive removal from Ogle Cave
Jesse Deubel, executive director of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation said funding from the bill would support multiple species across the state.
“This bill will transform wildlife conservation in New Mexico, protecting our unique species from the Gila monster to bighorn sheep,” Deubel said. “We’re grateful to Senator Heinrich for leading the way while reaching across the aisle, demonstrating that conservation is a core value for all Americans.”
Collin O’Mara, president of the National Wildlife Federation said the bill was the “most significant” conservation legislation in 50 years, arguing a third of wildlife species in the U.S. are at a “heightened risk” of extinction.
More:Tiny New Mexico river fish deemed 'endangered' by feds despite State's opposition
“The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act is the most significant wildlife-conservation bill in half a century — and today’s strong bipartisan vote brings it one tremendous step closer to becoming law,” O’Mara said.
“With more than one-third of all wildlife species in the United States at heightened risk of extinction, we are incredibly grateful for all of the Republicans, Democrats and independents working together to advance this historic legislation that matches the magnitude of America’s wildlife crisis.”
The Pueblo of Sandia in New Mexico recently received its own conservation funding through a $250,400 grant from the U.S. Department of Interior’s Improving Habitat Quality in Western Big Game Migration Corridors and Habitat Connectivity program.
More:Here's how the oil and gas industry could help save a nearly-extinct bird in New Mexico
The grantee provided $250,400 in matching funds for total funding of $500,800 for a project to improve Bobcat Ranch, a big game corridor on about 247 acres in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains for mule deer and Elk.
The project will seek to improve the area’s climate resilience through foresting thinning, prescribed burns and reseeding of native vegetation to connect three existing meadows on the land.
“Enhancing wildlife migration corridors and habitat connectivity is a top conservation priority, and we’re committed to cultivating strong partnerships and providing the resources and tools necessary to support healthy wildlife populations across the country,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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Community college celebrates its reopening under new name
Southeast New Mexico College celebrated its independence with a special ceremony on Monday, and the turnout was great. The independence of Carlsbad’s college was a great victory for Carlsbad, but it was an even bigger victory for the democratic process in terms of showing that the process can work.
Members of the faculty and staff here, and members of the community, all came together and accomplished something incredible. Thank you to the members of the faculty and staff who had the courage to let us know that there was a need for improvement. They recognized that we have a great college, but they also saw the interest in making it even better. Craig Stephens and John Heaton co-chaired a higher education task force that devoted a considerable amount of time towards the grassroots effort that led to independence. Special thanks to the hard work and dedication of Wendy Austin, Jay Jenkins and Kyle Marksteiner.
Rep. Cathrynn Brown and Sen. Gay Kernan did an outstanding job with getting the bill passed that led to independence, and we also appreciate all the support from Rep. Jim Townsend, Sen. Ron Griggs and Sen. David Gallegos, as well as from Sen. George Munoz in Gallup. Early in the legislative process, it felt like many people wrote off the entire thing, but things changed when Carlsbad residents of all ages came into the virtual meetings to speak in support of college independence. Sendero Midstream made a generous donation to help with marketing efforts. Numerous companies are already helping support Southeast New Mexico College. New Mexico State University was also very cooperative during the transition process.
Watching Southeast New Mexico College, come together has been an inspiration. We know this is only the beginning, but we also know that our college has unlimited potential.
Thank you to members of the SENMC board, Dr. Ned Elkins, Tiffany Frintz, Mark Cage, Bill Murrill and Sarah Bowman, and administration, including Dr. Andrew Nwanne, Dr. Karla Volpi, Dr. Monty Harris, Juanita Garcia, Sky Soto and Merdia Theragood, and many others, for Monday’s event.
Some of our former interns at City Hall are accomplishing great things academically. Asia Corona, who graduated from Carlsbad High School in 2018, has been accepted into the Mass Communications graduate program at Texas Tech University.
Victoria Peňa Parr, Class of 2017, has completed her graduate program at the University of New Mexico and has now received a full ride to Villanova Law School. Victoria was selected as a Public Interest Scholar, which includes a past record of leadership and academic success and a future commitment to public service.
Both Asia and Victoria interned at City Hall, and they also worked at the front desk in the Carlsbad Water Park over the summer. We’re very proud of all of their accomplishments and expect many more.
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20220413
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/14/jay-block-governor-michelle-lujan-grisham-failure-office-new-mexico-legislature-election/7276291001/
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Jay Block seeks GOP nomination to correct 'failures' of New Mexico Gov. Lujan Grisham
Jay Block said New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s first term leading the state was a “complete failure,” as he pointed to a struggling economy and what Block believed was a tenuous response to the COVID-19 health crisis.
A military veteran and Sandoval County commissioner, Block, was seeking the Republican Party’s nomination to challenge Lujan Grisham in November in the gubernatorial election.
He espoused “conservative” values along the campaign trail, critical of Lujan Grisham and her administration for policy Block said stymied local business and proved divisive while catering to special interests.
He said Lujan Grisham “shut down” New Mexico’s economy when COVID-19 hit the state in 2020 and restrictions were placed on businesses like indoor restaurants and concert venues – places where large gatherings occur.
The governor’s response was like many other states across the U.S. as they attempted to limit in-person contact to slow the spread of the deadly virus, drawing criticism from political opponents like Block of established state leadership.
Another sticking point for Block were increased environmental regulations on oil and gas extraction imposed by the current administration, which he said impeded New Mexico’s fossil fuel industry – a sector that makes up about a third of the state’s budget.
More:'Real frustration': Mark Ronchetti aims to take New Mexico governor post from Lujan Grisham
He enters a crowded GOP field of candidates vying for the nomination including meteorologist Mark Ronchetti, State Rep. Rebecca Dow (R-38) and businessman Greg Zanetti.
Block sat down with the Carlsbad Current-Argus to talk about his campaign and why he thinks he should replace Lujan Grisham as the top elected official in the State of New Mexico.
What do you think of Lujan Grisham’s time as governor of New Mexico?
“She didn’t face the challenges of the economy. The people faced the challenges of the economy because of her shutting down the economy. She’s been a complete failure on how she’s handled COVID. Forty percent of small businesses closed down. Does that sound like a success to you?
“We had one of the highest death rates in COVID, one of the highest infection rates. That doesn’t sound like success. We had increased crime, increased mental health. Our schools, our children suffered tremendously. Our education is dead last, unemployment we’re dead last. If that’s your metric of success, I would beg to differ.”
More:Rebecca Dow aims to unseat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, get government 'out of the way'
How would you, as governor, maintain a relationship with the Legislature
“I would work with the lawmakers. I would sign a bill limiting the governor’s power when it comes to an emergency, or public health emergency. This governor was totally against that because she wants all the power to make the decisions on her own, and we see how that has affected New Mexicans. It’s been a horror show.
“I’m not going to compromise my conservative values and principles to get bad legislation passed. I think we can find a lot of common ground on getting rid of gross receipts tax, which is just gross in my opinion. I think we can find some common ground on crime. I’d like to get bail back; I’d like to get qualified immunity back for our police offices. Morale among the police and law enforcement is at an all-time low here in New Mexico because of what the governor did.”
Why would a conservative platform be better for New Mexicans?
“New Mexicans are conservative. I’ve done it as a county commissioner here in my first and second terms. I’ve worked with Democrats to overturn her (Lujan Grisham) 30x30 climate change government land grab executive order. I’ve worked with Democrats to pass the second amendment sanctuary county.
"I’ve worked with Democrats around the state to pass right to work at the county level. I worked with Democrats in Sandoval County on economic development. I definitely have a record of working with Democrats getting conservative things done.”
More:'Far from over.' New Mexico Supreme Court declines to investigate state's COVID-19 response
How would you connect with voters down here in the southeast region of New Mexico?
“I’m the only candidate from an oil and gas county. Sandoval County, we’re an oil and gas county. I understand what southeast New Mexico is going through and northwest New Mexico is going through being under attack from the state and the feds. We feel it here.”
What’s your impression of New Mexico’s oil and gas regulations?
“You’re seeing more and more regulations coming down from Santa Fe that’s pushing oil and gas out of the state, across the state line to Texas. That’s killing our jobs. It’s dumb. The 30x30 executive order is an attack on oil and gas as well, which I pushed back on and passed a resolution to overturn. We’ve been fracking in New Mexico for 60 years plus, and not one time has the oil and gas industry contaminated drinking water in New Mexico.
“This is an industry that is very safe, very environmentally friendly and doesn’t use hardly any water what it used to. Roughly about 1 percent of the water used in New Mexico goes to oil and gas. The governor is regulating businesses out of business.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/2022/04/14/nuke-waste-carlsbad-idaho-national-laboratory-incident-waste-isolation-pilot-plant-new-mexico/7290992001/
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Nuclear waste shipments to Carlsbad blocked from Idaho after contamination discovered
A drum of nuclear waste found to have radioactive liquid contamination at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant last week was sent from Idaho National Laboratory, officials said, and the incident is being investigated by the two facilities and the State of New Mexico.
During the investigation, waste disposal from Idaho was suspended.
On April 9, WIPP activated its Emergency Operations Center and Joint Information Center in response to the discovery of the liquid, which tested positive for radioactivity, in an outer container containing transuranic (TRU) waste as it was prepared for disposal.
The waste, mostly clothing items and equipment irradiated during nuclear activities across the country, is disposed of at WIPP by being buried in a salt deposit about 2,000 feet underground and 26 miles east of Carlsbad.
After discovering the contamination, 10 workers were evacuated from WIPP’s Waste Handling Building and tested for radioactive contamination as was the air at the facility.
Waste handling, the process of preparing waste for disposal, was also suspended.
More:Workers evacuated from area of Carlsbad nuclear waste repository after 'abnormal event'
As of Tuesday, officials reported no further contamination or radiological release was detected.
The source of the fluid was under investigation, said WIPP spokesperson Bobby St. John.
“The contamination was contained within the liquid and there was/is no risk to employees, the public or the environment,” St. John said in a statement. “We have written processes and protocols in place for this type of situation and all protocols were followed.”
More:Nuke waste shipments to New Mexico from Idaho to increase after retrieval project completed
The last time the Emergency Operations Center was activated was in March 2019, St. John said, in response to a power outage of WIPP’s waste hoist that carries waste underground brought on by severe weather.
St. John did not specify how long the investigation would take or how long WIPP would not receive waste from Idaho National Laboratory – the biggest shipper of waste to the repository since it opened in 1999.
“We are coordinating closely with the Idaho National Laboratory to expeditiously gather the facts while working to complete the investigation in a thorough and meticulous manner,” he said.
More:Los Alamos National Laboratory agrees to clean up nuclear pollution, ends watchdog lawsuit
WIPP’s regulatory agency the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), with which the U.S. Department of Energy holds a permit to operate the facility, was notified and plans to evaluate the results of the investigation to determine if a permit violation occurred.
“All required notifications were completed in accordance with the WIPP permit,” St. John said. “We are complying with all permit requirements regarding this issue and continuing routine communication with NMED.”
He said WIPP would seek any needed “corrective action,” and that the contaminated container was secured and posed no risk to workers.
More:Permian Basin nuclear waste project opposed by critics in U.S. Court of Appeals
“The next steps are to conduct and finalize the investigation and implement any corrective actions if necessary,” St. John said. “The safety of our workforce, the public, and the environment remain our top priority.”
NMED spokesman Matthew Maez said the DOE had 15-days to provide a report on the incident to the State for review.
“The New Mexico Environment Department is evaluating WIPP’s compliance with its permit, rules and the Hazardous Waste Act,” Maez said.
“Once WIPP completes their 15-day analysis and provides it to NMED for review, we will determine if DOE violated its permit, rules, or the statute and take appropriate enforcement if necessary.”
More:Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance members confident of federal approval for nuclear waste facility
The last accidental radiological release reported at WIPP was in 2014 when an incorrectly-packaged drum of waste sent from Los Alamos National Laboratory in northern New Mexico ruptured due to a chemical reaction with its packaging.
The event resulted in three-year halt of WIPP’s emplacement and mining operations, which resumed in early 2017.
Such an incident and a disruption of shipments from Idaho National Laboratory could pose a problem for a settlement agreement between the DOE and the State of Idaho to prioritize waste from the lab.
More:Oil and gas companies join fight against nuclear waste facilities in the Permian Basin
Representatives from Idaho National Laboratory did not immediately respond to inquiries from the Current-Argus.
But the facility appeared poised to ship more of its waste to WIPP as the DOE announced last week it had exhumed 50,000 drums of waste buried at the Idaho site during the Cold War.
The project was intended to remove the waste from an area about 585 feet above the Snake River Plan Aquifer, an important source of water in the region.
Records show that throughout WIPP’s lifetime, it received and emplaced about 6,700 shipments of nuclear waste from Idaho, more than the next-three-biggest shippers combined.
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/news/crime/2022/04/14/meet-carlsbads-new-k-9-officers-echo-syrene-bishop-and-okus/7311291001/
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Meet Carlsbad's new K9 officers: Echo, Syrene, Bishop and Okus
Meet Bishop, Okus, Syrene and Echo — Carlsbad Police Department's newest officers.
They've got brains and brawn and, alongside their handlers, comprise the department's new K-9 unit.
Bishop's handler is Cpl. John Bonnell.
Patrolman Chris Morales handles 2-year-old Okus. The two were together a month before heading to Florida for additional training.
Okus is a Belgian Malinois. He is trained to sniff out narcotics and in skilled in biting.
Patrolman Garrett Hendren is partnered with 2-year-old German Shepherd Echo. This team will also head to Florida for a training course.
A donation by Dan Thomassian made Echo's addition to the K-9 unit possible.
Syrene, also a German Shephard, is partnered with Cpl. Judy Brakeman.
Syrene specializes in narcotics and tracking.
All four dogs were purchased from a trainer in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Three of the canines were purchased for the unit thanks to a fundraising campaign headed by the Carlsbad Anti-Drug/Gang Coalition which raised $50,000. The funds were also used to send the teams to training and purchase equipment.
"The Carlsbad Anti-Gang and Drug Coalition has been invaluable in its support, donations and willingness to help raise funds for the program. I would also like to thank Mayor Janway and our governing body for their loyal fiscal and philosophical support in terms of how much they have backed the Carlsbad Police Department K-9 Division," said Carlsbad Police Chief Shane Skiner.
"Finally, thank you to the citizens of Carlsbad and Eddy County who have faithfully supported the program and given donations so generously."
None of the dogs are trained to detect the odor of marijuana, and replace K-9 officers who are, after New Mexico passed its Cannabis Regulation Act which legalized the consumption of cannabis in the state to those 21 years and older.
Drug-sniffing dog units throughout the state were retired as well; The New Mexico Department of Public Safety retired nine of its K-9 units.
The legislation went into effect April 1.
Instead, Okus, Echo, Syrene and Bishop can detect other illegal substances, such as meth and fentanyl. Some of the dogs are proficient in taking down a suspect, and others in tracking a missing person.
Skinner said that the unit is often called upon to assist local, state and federal agencies.
"The Pecos Valley Drug Task Force in conjunction with the Carlsbad Police Department K-9 Division has experienced record years in drug seizure amounts as the program has continued to grow," Skinner said.
"They are valued members of our department and are wonderful when working with community members or doing demonstrations for youth groups, school children and community groups. We are hoping to grow our expertise in the area as we have invested in certifying some of the officers in the division to become Master Handlers."
Skinner said the raining would result in certification for the K-9 teams.
The City of Carlsbad's K-9 program was re-established in 2017, after almost a decade of being inactive. Some of its former canines include Aris, Nia and Alf. The dogs were either retired from law enforcement service or transferred to a Texas where they continue to work.
“We were able to restore our K-9 unit thanks to a great community effort and very generous contributions," said Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway."
"Our K-9 units make a huge different in helping our officers serve and protect the community. They also tend to draw a lot of positive attention toward our police department.”
Bonnell and Brakeman are no strangers to working with K-9s; Bonnell served as a handler for Aris, and Brakeman for Nia, both Belgian Malinois'.
Jessica Onsurez can be reached at jonsurez@gannett.com, @JussGREAT on Twitter at by phone at 575-628-5531.
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https://www.currentargus.com/story/opinion/columnists/2022/04/14/carlsbad-eddy-county-firefighters-assisting-ruidosos-mcbride-fire/7305293001/
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Carlsbad, Eddy County firefighters assisting in Ruidoso's McBride Fire
Please keep the residents of Ruidoso in your prayers this week. As of Tuesday night, more than 150 homes and structures have been lost due to multiple wildfires, including the McBride Fire, which was up to 4,000 acres in size and started north of Ruidoso High School. Mandatory evacuations are taking place in parts of Ruidoso and Nogal Canyon to the north. The Red Cross is on site to assist. School has been cancelled in the area and a State of Emergency has been declared.
It’s very important to realize that these wildfires are touching on parts of the city itself. Firefighters are also battling wildfires near both Belen and Las Vegas, New Mexico.
The Carlsbad Fire Department has sent a team to assist in Ruidoso. Members of the Carlsbad group originally went to the fire in Nogal, but they may have been moved elsewhere. Our assistance included a brush truck, incident commander and three personnel. Eddy County has also sent two brush trucks and several firefighters to assist with these wildfires. The Lincoln County Fairgrounds, Roswell Animal Shelter, Otero Fairgrounds and the Eddy County Sheriff’s Posse has also offered to use its facility for anyone needing to temporarily find shelter for their horses.
We will certainly do what we can to assist our friends and neighbors who are battling wildfires across the state.
Updates on the McBride Fire are being posted at https://www.facebook.com/McBrideFire2022/.
Tuesday’s winds, in addition to helping spread wildfires around Ruidoso, had their own impact in Carlsbad and Eddy County, where sporting events were cancelled and the Sandpoint Landfill was closed for safety reasons. Increased potential for wildfires still exists. Please avoid any activity that could produce a flame or spark.
According to the Village of Ruidoso, anyone looking to make a donation or volunteer should call 575-258-6900 or 575-937-7785, 575-937-5059, 575-937-2816.
Just a reminder that Carlsbad City Hall, and other city locations such as the library and museum, will be closed on Friday for the holiday. Our solid waste schedule will run as normal, however. Convenience Station hours are Monday through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Riverwalk Rec Center will also remain open Friday. If you are seeing this update on Wednesday, please don’t forget that the Riverwalk Recreation Center is holding an Easter celebration beginning at 3 p.m. on April 13. The Carlsbad Public Library has an ongoing Easter Egg hunt taking place every day through April 22. Please check it out.
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