Garcia Richard faced criticism from the New Mexico Wildlife Federation and other groups when she withdrew a state parcel from public hunting during the 2019-20 waterfowl season. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish compensates the State Land Office through an easement agreement for licensed hunters to access state land.

In 2019, Garcia Richard ordered this closure without public notice or consultation with an advisory group of hunters and anglers. In 2020, she wrote to the USFWS expressing interest in transferring the parcel for addition to Valle de Oro, and her office sought public comment on its future use this summer.

At a public meeting in South Valley, many local residents opposed allowing hunting on the state land. If acquired by the federal government, any decision about hunting would undergo a public environmental review process.

The Land Office announced that the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District will maintain flood control rights on the property. The City of Albuquerque holds a lease until 2030.

In a letter released Thursday, Garcia Richard stated that she understands USFWS will address hunting through a public comment process but noted opposition from most area residents.