San Juan River

There have been a number of meetings about concerns with the San Juan River. There has been some concern about silting in parts of the River. This has been maintained by some activist organizations as related to Oil and Gas Production in the area. That is not true and has been shown to be totally untrue. However there does appear to be a problem and the River is changing. Some of the changes are a result of natural maturity for any water. Others are a concerns that can be addressed.

None who know anything about the River would argue that the River is not an exceedingly important part of the four corners economy, (particularly around Navajo Dam). To continue the quality of the River may take some money. What else is new. That money should be raised from those who use the River. It has been suggested that a Trout Stamp for the San Juan be approved by the Legislature. All License fees etc. must have the approval of the NM State Legislature.

I would encourage you to think about this Trout Stamp. I think it is a good idea. Those of us who fish the San Juan should be the ones to pay for the changes. The good news is that a great many of the fishermen are non-residents and therefore a large portion of the total proceeds would not affect the local population. When normal rod fees range anywhere from $25.00 to $200.00 a day, a few dollars for an Annual Fee would be relatively painless.

Let me know what you think