Released: Thursday, March 31, 2022
‘Roxy Law’ trap ban goes into effect on public lands in New Mexico on Friday, April 1, 2022
Wildlife advocates, outdoor entertainers and public lands enthusiasts honor the important law
SANTA FE, NM — On April 1, the “Roxy Law” went into effect banning traps, traps, and poisons on public lands in New Mexico. The act, which took more than 15 years to pass, represents a huge victory in protecting wildlife, public lands and the safety of outdoor recreationers. It covers nearly 32 million acres with some common exemptions.
“This act is a huge step forward in bringing New Mexico’s wildlife management in line with public values,” said Chris Smith, southwest wildlife advocate for WildEarth Guardians. the best science available and the growing ethic of coexistence,” said Chris Smith, southwest wildlife advocate for WildEarth Guardians. “Wildlife is very important to our state – from an ecological, cultural and even economic point of view. This law represents a shift towards recognizing that importance and avoiding seeing wildlife as something only to be slaughtered and sold cheaply. “
“Traps and poisons are simply not fit for public use,” said Mary Katherine Ray, president of the Sierra Club’s Wildlife Society. “Prohibition of their use, including cage traps, would prevent cruelty and exploitation towards wildlife for personal profit in the sale of their skins. This exploitation is contrary to conservation and does not serve the needs of wildlife management. “
“Finally, all New Mexicans and visitors can celebrate public lands that are safe for their families, companion animals, and wildlife with whom we share the Land of Enchantment, ” said Michelle Lute, PhD in wildlife conservation and national carnivore conservation management of the Coyote Project. “Now that ancient and ineffective traps and poisons have been legally removed, we can work together to help each other truly coexist with wildlife and protect endangered species. lands and waters are important to all of us.”
“Our grasslands and canyons will no longer be the scene of prolonged animal suffering and people’s desperate attempts to save their livestock,” said Michael Robinson of the Center for Biodiversity. “Instead, many will light up with the memory of a lynx ready to pounce or a fox on the run. Fur trapping will eventually be viewed with the same distaste today for the poisoning of completely unchecked wildlife in a bygone era. The Land of Enchantment is helping lead the way.” Contact:
Chris Smith, Guardian of WildEarth, 505-395-6177, [email protected]
Michael Robinson, Center for Biodiversity, 575-313-7017, [email protected]
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