In October 2024, the New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts (NMACD) voted unanimously to oppose the designation of National Monuments and Wild and Scenic Rivers within the state.

The resolution, passed at the group's annual meeting, argues that the Antiquities Act of 1906, which allows presidents to unilaterally designate national monuments, has been misused for political purposes. NMACD asserts that these large-scale designations restrict land use and hinder economic activities.

The resolution states that the Antiquities Act "was intended to be used in emergency situations to protect historic artifacts, and sites of scientific value, from 'imminent threat' which in all cases should be confined to the smallest area necessary." NMACD claims that monument designations "appear to be nothing more than another attempt at a federal land grabs driven by political motivation, outside interests."

NMACD argues that converting public lands into permanent conservation status has negative economic impacts, particularly in New Mexico, where industries such as oil and gas, livestock grazing, mining, and recreation depend on access to federal lands. The group believes that such designations harm the state’s economy and the livelihoods of its residents.

In its resolution, NMACD also expressed support for the continued private ownership of land in New Mexico, citing the importance of domestic resources like minerals, energy, timber, food, and fiber. The group opposes any federal rules or actions that would limit the productive use of lands, and calls for more consideration of local input before any land designations are made.