Santa Fe, N.M. - Legislation to create New Mexico's 36th state park along a scenic stretch of the Rio Grande in Doña Ana County is now headed to the Senate after passing the House of Representatives today by a vote of 48-16.

House Bill 219 would establish the Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park, located adjacent to the popular slot canyon hiking trail near Las Cruces. The 783-acre park, set amidst towering cliffs, beautiful cottonwoods and 360-degree mountain vistas, would provide parking and safe trail access to this hike and to the 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.

"Doña Ana County has become a renowned outdoor recreation destination, and this legislation will help us expand opportunities to safely enjoy the area, while also strengthening our local economy," said lead sponsor Representative Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces). "Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park will help us protect the lands and wildlife that we cherish, and enhance our ability to share the things that make Southern New Mexico so special with locals and visitors alike."

The proposed Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park is located in the eastern flank of the Sierra De Las Uvas Mountains, approximately 20 miles north of Las Cruces, directly adjacent to NM 185. The park is situated where the Broad Canyon and Selden Canyon meet along the lower Rio Grande, south of Caballo Dam and north of Leasburg Dam. The slot canyon is located between Selden Hills to the northeast and Cedar Hills to the southwest.

The park would span riverside and upland areas, with elevations ranging from 3980 to 4386 feet above sea level. It would cover native river riparian forests, meadows and wetland habitats, including the 40-acre Swan Pond wetland - a noted birding hotspot, as well as smaller seasonal wetlands, cottonwoods, and coyote willow stands, screwbean mesquite woodlands, salt grass meadows, and arroyo-shrub habitats leading to the river.

The land designated for the Slot Canyon Riverlands State Park under HB 219 is currently owned by the New Mexico State Parks Division.

The bill is also sponsored by Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-Las Cruces) and Rep. Joanne Ferrary (D-Las Cruces). It has also received broad support from the tourism industry, small businesses, local residents, and conservationists.
Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.