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| Wilson Gains Federal Funding For Tres Pistoles |
October 15, 1999 |
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| WASHINGTON -- Congresswoman Heather Wilson today announced that $1.4 million has been approved for the purchase and preservation of the final phase of the Tres Pistoles property. At the Congresswoman's request, funding was included in the fiscal year 1999 final Omnibus spending bill and will allow for the purchase of the remaining 146 acres which is located in the Sandia Mountains three miles east of the city limits of Albuquerque.
"For the past 10 years, Congress, citizen groups, conservation organizations and public agencies have worked together to save Tres Pistoles," Congresswoman Wilson said. "It is a property that has been used for recreation enthusiasts and for scientific studies for many years."
Tres Pistoles is one of the most popular hiking areas near Albuquerque, a prime feeding ground for raptors and on a main migratory route for birds of prey. It has abundant wildlife and archeological, historical and cultural significance for New Mexicans. The property has been appraised for approximately $4.1 million. So far, 284 acres have been preserved at a cost of around $2.7 million.
"The beauty and majesty of this area will be preserved for future generations," Wilson said. "This local, state, private and now federal cooperation will ensure that."
Congresswoman Wilson requested the funding in a September 16 letter to Representative Ralph Regula, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Interior and leader of the joint House-Senate negotiations. The purchase of the property is provided within the spending caps included in the 1997 Balanced Budget Agreement.
Congresswoman Wilson has requested that the U.S. Forest Service continue to pursue the sale of excess property, including the property at I-40 and 12th Street that was initially intended to provide the funds for the completion of the Tres Pistoles purchase.
The conference Report will be considered by both houses of Congress and sent to the White House for signing. |
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