FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP)-The U.S. Senate has passed a package of bills signed by President Donald Trump that includes enacting a buffer zone around a national park in New Mexico protecting it from oil and gas leasing activities.
Tuesday, the Farmington Daily Times reported the 2020 federal spending package was passed last week and gives the Chaco Culture National Historical Park a 10-mile buffer zone.
Officials say no federal funds can be used to accept a nomination for oil and gas leasing in the zone until a cultural resources investigation is completed.
Advocates say the buffer zone protects ancient roads and significant cultural resources pending needed studies and consultation with tribal communities.
