Article Highlights New Mexico's "Inaccessible Wonderlands," Underscores Importance of Heinrich's HUNT Act

Press Release

In a feature story over the weekend, the Albuquerque Journal highlighted legislation sponsored by Martin Heinrich aimed at improving access to public lands for hunters, anglers, and other recreational users.

Heinrich introduced the Hunt Unrestricted on National Treasures Act or HUNT Act, in July 2012, receiving both national and local media attention. "Loss of public access is a growing concern in the West, and particularly in New Mexico. We think this is some great legislation because it gets recreational access for everyone…," said Oscar Simpson, chairman of the New Mexico chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers in the September 2nd Albuquerque Journal article.

With the start of hunting season in New Mexico this weekend, the article underscored the importance of the legislation. Heinrich said, "As an avid hunter, I know all too well how important access to our federal public lands is to New Mexico sportsmen. Outdoor recreation like hunting and fishing contributes a great deal to New Mexico's economy, particularly in our rural communities. The HUNT Act will open up these areas to sportsmen and support our economy in the process."

Heinrich represents the First Congressional District of New Mexico and is running for the United States Senate to replace retiring Democratic U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman.

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