§460yyy–2 Management of the Conservation Area

Summary

The Secretary must manage the Conservation Area to protect, save, and improve its natural and cultural resources. Management must follow this law, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, and other laws. Only activities that protect the cave resources are allowed. Management must support science, education, and appropriate public use; allow public access when it is safe and will not harm the caves; keep existing or new uses that do not damage the area’s purposes; follow the Fort Stanton Area of Critical Environmental Concern Final Activity Plan dated March, 2001 (or any updates), and encourage research and partnerships with colleges, schools, and scientists. Except for valid existing rights, all federal surface and underground land inside the Conservation Area and any land the United States acquires after March 30, 2009, for the area are closed to general land claims, mining claims, and mineral or geothermal leasing. Within 2 years after March 30, 2009, the Secretary must write a long-term management plan that explains allowed uses, considers other plans and studies, and includes a cooperative agreement with Lincoln County, New Mexico. The Secretary may create research and visitor interpretation facilities and may work with the State of New Mexico and other groups. Nothing here creates or reserves any water right.