Threats to Otero Mesa
In such a fragile landscape as the Chihuahuan Desert, virtually any disruption to its lands and waters can have a devastating impact on the species found there. Otero Mesa remains largely roadless compared to other regions in New Mexico. Development in almost any form requires roads, and roads lead to habitat fragmentation or destruction. Below are the six primary threats facing Otero Mesa.
Oil & Gas Development
Approximately 110,000 oil and gas wells have been drilled in New Mexico. Over the years, there has been interest in drilling on Otero Mesa as well, despite industry assessments that production would be low. Not only would oil and gas development damage natural and cultural resources on the surface of Otero Mesa, but it also risks contaminating groundwater reserves beneath the Mesa.
Groundwater Withdrawals
As water becomes more precious in an arid West, the aquifer underlying Otero Mesa becomes more attractive to businesses and governments, which could prompt proposals to export groundwater. Pumping groundwater for export could impact wildlife species on Otero Mesa and the associated infrastructure would result in ecological impacts resulting from development.
Unmanaged Recreation
Many remote public lands are scored with tracks from all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) ripping at the fragile grasses and shallow soil. This is uniquely harmful to the delicate nature of desert grasslands.
Mining
Rare earth minerals can be found in Otero Mesa, and only its remoteness has protected it from exploitation to date. The development of mines on the Mesa would also be devastating for biodiversity, cultural resources, and water resources.
Renewable Energy
Desert lands have been attractive for solar farms because the land has low market value and there is abundant sunshine. The Bureau of Land Management has proposed opening as much as 55 million acres of public land in the West for solar installations. Smart placement for these developments is vital to maintaining the ecological integrity of Otero Mesa as well as its cultural resources and vast scenic qualities.
Climate Change
The Mesa’s biome has evolved to face cyclical drought, but greater aridification poses a long-term threat. Loss of grasslands, which hold carbon from the atmosphere, is a threat to all life.