Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Releases Galisteo Basin Report

Press Release:

"SANTA FE, NM – Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Secretary Joanna Prukop releases report on the Galisteo Basin. Governor Bill Richardson issued an Executive Order on the Galisteo Basin on January 24, 2008 imposing a six-month moratorium on new oil and gas drilling in Santa Fe County and the Galisteo Basin. The moratorium allowed designated government agencies to gather information on protecting water aquifers, archeological and cultural resources, and wildlife in the ecologically fragile area. This included a public comment period and an “open house” when members of the public could meet with agency representatives. An electronic copy of the complete report is available at the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department website at: www.emnrd.state.nm.us .

The Executive Order is available at http://www.governor.state.nm.us/orders/2008/EO_2008_004.pdf .

“I’d like to thank all the government agencies that contributed to this report,” said Joanna Prukop, Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. “The Galisteo Basin is indeed, an ecologically fragile and resource-rich area, and the more information we have on this area will help ensure proper protection of human health, the environment, and ground water.”'