FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
House Contact: Camille Ward, Camille.Ward@nmlegis.gov
Senate Contact: Chris Nordstrum, Chris.Nordstrum@nmlegis.gov
Santa Fe, N.M. –. Representative Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces) and Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-Las Cruces) have introduced legislation to establish the Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park, which would create New Mexico’s 36th state park along a scenic stretch of the Rio Grande in Doña Ana County.
The proposed park would encompass 783 acres of land owned by the New Mexico State Parks Division. Located adjacent to a popular outdoor destination and set amidst towering cliffs, beautiful cottonwoods and 360-degree mountain vistas, the new proposed state park would provide parking and trail access to the slot canyon and Rio Grande. Amenities would include camping, miles of trails, diverse wildlife viewing, river recreation access, and outdoor education. The park would also connect to the planned New Mexico Rio Grande Trail.
The Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park would be a significant addition to Doña Ana County’s growing reputation as an outdoor recreation destination. Tourism professionals, small businesses, community residents, and conservationists applauded the bill’s introduction.
State Representative Nathan Small
“Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park will boost economic development, improve wildlife habitat, and be a gem for southern New Mexico. I’m proud to be part of this important project that will create new opportunities for New Mexicans to enjoy the lands and wildlife that make our state and our community such a special place to live.”
State Senator Jeff Steinborn
“I’m beyond excited to work towards the creation of this incredible new state park. It’s a place where people can experience breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife while also boosting our outdoor economy. This park isn’t just about protecting nature—it’s about creating a space where our community and visitors can connect with the beauty that makes our state so special. Plus, as a key stop along the Rio Grande Trail, it’s sure to become a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers across New Mexico.”
Toby Velasquez, Director of New Mexico State Parks
“We are excited to take the next step towards the establishment of New Mexico’s 36th state park. The potential addition of another state park to the current mosaic of public lands in southwest New Mexico will bring new outdoor recreational opportunities and bolster economic benefits to the lower Rio Grande Valley.”
Rochelle Miller-Hernandez, Executive Director of Visit Las Cruces
“As Executive Director of Visit Las Cruces, I have the privilege of promoting Southern New Mexico to the world! The creation of this exciting new state park would enhance safe access to one of our most popular outdoor hot spots and contribute to the marketability of Las Cruces to outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Outdoor recreation is one of the top reasons people spend time in Las Cruces and a key economic driver to southern New Mexico, generating millions of dollars annually to local businesses and our region.”
Ronnie De La O, Owner of Blue Moon Bar and Grill
“As a local business owner near the historic community of Radium Springs, I enthusiastically support the creation of the Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park. We see customers daily coming to visit these beautiful areas, and a new state park would have an immense positive impact on the local economy and surrounding businesses.”
Patrick Nolan, Friends of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks
“The creation of Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park will provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Rio Grande. This park will not only preserve vital ecosystems, but also offer a space for outdoor recreation, education, and community connection for generations to come.”
Beth Bardwell, Doña Ana County resident and freshwater conservationist, who collaborated with diverse organizations and legislators to help secure the funding to acquire the property for the New Mexico State Parks Division in 2008
“Nestled in a canyon, with a breathtaking panorama of Southern New Mexico’s mountain ranges, and a mile-plus of river frontage and forest, this new state park will grow to be one of the most loved parks in Doña Ana County.”
Park location and background
The proposed Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park is nestled in the eastern flank of the Sierra De Las Uvas Mountains, approximately 20 miles north of Las Cruces, directly adjacent to NM 185. Consisting of an “upland” and “riverside” parcel, it is located at the confluence of Broad Canyon and Selden Canyon within the lower Rio Grande south of Caballo Dam and north of Leasburg Dam. The canyon is located between Selden Hills to the northeast and Cedar Hills to the southwest. The elevations of the proposed park range from 3980 feet above sea level along the river to 4386 feet above sea level.
Native river riparian forests, meadows and wetland habitats lie within the proposed Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park, including the 40-acre Swan Pond wetland, smaller seasonal wetlands, cottonwoods, and coyote willow stands, screwbean mesquite woodlands, salt grass meadows, and arroyo-shrub habitats leading to the river. Swan Pond is noted as a birding hotspot on eBird, an online database of bird observations.
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