"President Barack Obama signed a proclamation Wednesday formally designating nearly half a million acres of land in Doña Ana County as a national monument — a move that comes after years of heated local debate over the proposal.

The signing event to officially designate the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument took place in the nation's capital, but was attended by some Las Crucens. And two live viewing events happened locally.

Obama emphasized that conserving notable natural places is important for future generations."

The Las Cruces Sun-News had the story May 21, 2013. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Obama Declares the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks Region of N.M. a National Monument" (Washington Post) [3]

"Obama To Protect 500,000 Acres in New Mexico as National Monument" (Washington Post) [4]