Western New Mexico University President Dr. Joseph Shepard Announces Support of Proposed Copper Mining Rules

SILVER CITY, NM – Western New Mexico University President, Dr. Joseph Shepard, issued the following statement in support of the New Mexico Environment Department’s proposed Copper Mining Rules:

I am proud to support the New Mexico Environment Department’s (NMED) proposed copper mining rules. The current rules were created in the early 1990’s, and they must be updated to align with current technologies, research and best practices. The NMED’s proposed rules are a great improvement and will provide clear, consistent regulations for protecting groundwater around copper mining operations.

I am an avid backpacker and love the great nature we have around.  I drink the water from our streams, and I would oppose any rules that would negatively impact the environment and the quality of life I enjoy as a New Mexican.  The rules provide the critical protection of the streams, economy, wildlife and nature that we dearly love and treasure.

Copper generates about 4,300 jobs and over $300 million in annual revenue for our state.  It is a vital part of our community and who we are.

I encourage you to read the rules that have been proposed by the New Mexico Environment Department. They are some of the strictest rules in our country, and I am very proud that we are moving in the direction of making sure that the copper mining industry is regulated in a way that protects our economy and our natural resources while balancing the economic needs of our state.