On Friday, May 8, 2026 Tribal and Hispano leaders and local elected officials joined Senator Martin Heinrich and Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez, to formally announce federal legislation that will protect big portions of the Caja del Rio.

The Caja del Rio Protection Act (S.4458), sponsored by Senator Martin Heinrich and co-sponsored by Senator Ben Ray Luján, mirrors H.R.8616 in the House, sponsored by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez.

This is a huge step in protecting the Caja del Rio, and was celebrated with food, music, guided hikes and other activities.

Read more:

Heinrich, Leger Fernandez Lead N.M. Delegation to Unveil New Legislation to Permanently Protect Caja del Rio 

NM federal, local and tribal leaders celebrate legislation to protect the Caja del Rio

Politicians tout bill to protect the Caja del Rio

Bill Would Protect 105,623 Acres of Caja del Rio Habitat, Culturally Significant Landscape

New legislation seeks permanent protection for Caja del Top plateau

Listen on KSFR: Heinrich, Leger Fernandez introduce federal legislation to protect Caja del Rio