Heather Berghmans Senate District 15 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
Valencia Water Watchers and other groups are mobilizing against a recently approved ordinance that facilitates oil and gas drilling in Valencia County. The ordinance, known as the Natural Resources Overlay Zone (NROZ), was passed by the Valencia County Commission on July 14th with a narrow vote of 3–2, despite extensive public opposition during nearly seven hours of testimony.
Concerns raised by the public included insufficient oversight of oil and gas operations, potential health risks, environmental impacts, possible contamination of the Albuquerque Basin Aquifer from fracking, lack of consultation with tribal communities, and the risk of increased seismic activity.
The NROZ ordinance has been influenced by the oil and gas industry but now includes stricter criteria for operations derived from the Mineral Resource District code. Despite amendments made due to public pressure, exceptions for drilling remain a concern for local residents. Reports indicate issues with public participation during the hearing process.
Earlier this year, an initial version of the NROZ was pushed through without public input except from oil magnate Harvey E. Yates Jr. The final amendments were introduced at the end of the July hearing without prior distribution to attendees.
Valencia Water Watchers stated: “Valencia Water Watchers is extremely concerned about this amended Natural Resource Overlay Zone ordinance. If drilling occurs in Valencia County, our community is at risk of earthquakes and contaminated groundwater. Our health and the health of future generations is at risk."
Alejandría Lyons from Southwest Organizing Project expressed disappointment over potential geological impacts and water contamination: “As a water rights holder and descendant of the Peralta Land Grant...We cannot allow any of our water to be contaminated by this industry; we must keep fracking out of Valencia County.”
Teresa Smith de Cherif criticized the lack of consultation with Native American tribes: “Because fracking may contaminate...the Valencia County Commission should have engaged...before approving [NROZ].”
Anni Hanna from NM Climate Justice emphasized environmental concerns: “Geologists, Water Experts, Doctors...all spoke out against [NROZ]...This vote ignores warnings...It is both unethical and unconscionable that commissioners would ram through [it].”
Miya King-Flaherty from Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter commented on community opposition: “This commission will have a lot to answer for...Public officials should be in the role of protecting their communities..."
For further details on this issue, visit www.ValenciaWaterWatchers.com.
