New Mexico looks at impact of geothermal development on forest areas
Santa Fe National Forest, NM (Source: Flickr, CC, By: Artotem)
Alexander Richter
15 May 2015
There are notices of interest for the leasing of about 46,000 acres for geothermal exploration on Santa Fe National Forest land in NM.
New Mexico will begin a study to assess the environmental impact of possible geothermal development on the Santa Fe National Forest. According to a local newspaper, “about 195,000 acres have been identified by the U.S. Geological Survey as having “significant geothermal potential.” The Bureau of Land Management, which manages subsurface resources on federal land, also has received notices of interest for the leasing of about 46,000 acres of Santa Fe National Forest land for geothermal exploration and development.”
Following the growing interest to develop geothermal energy projects, the local authorities will conduct said studies to prevent any damage or potential damage to the environment in the area.
The same source details that “a draft Environmental Impact Statement is expected to be completed by January 2016, with the final version slated for October 2016.”
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Source: Santa Fe New Mexican
