Celebrating the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

As we come upon the 10-year anniversary of the designation of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, I can’t help but beam with pride over how Las Cruces serves as an example for other communities in embracing our public lands.

On May 21, 2014, President Barack Obama designated OMDPNM as a national monument, citing the unique historical, cultural, natural and scientific resources of Doña Ana County’s public lands. For those of us who live here, we have since experienced the numerous benefits of the monument’s establishment.

When I started Southwest Expeditions 11 years ago, the designation was still just a hope and dream of many who saw how important it was to protect these sacred places. Now, as we celebrate the tenth anniversary, we see not only an increase in monument visitation but also an increase in the economic impact, jobs, outdoor recreation and tax revenues.

The economic benefits are significant, as documented by a report released last September by the Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, of which we are members.
The report’s economist authors at BBC Research and Consulting found visitation to the monument has increased three-fold since OMDPNM was created, resulting in $234 million in new spending over 8 years that currently supports over 300 jobs in hospitality, outdoor recreation, retail services, and other sectors.

My business specializes in outdoor excursions and experiences. New visitors and current residents want to experience our majestic landscapes, wildlife and unique sunsets. I have seen an increase in tour bookings, visitation to Las Cruces and an expansion of services.

OMDPNM is good for our community and I have seen firsthand the benefits it has brought to our area. I celebrate the first 10 years of the monument and look forward to seeing what transpires in the decades to come.

David Crider is the owner/founder of Southwest Expeditions, based in Las Cruces.