TO: The Honorable Neil Kornze

FROM: Jason Chaffetz, Chairman
Rob Bishop, Chairman
Cynthia M. Lummis, Chairman
Tom McClintock, Chairman
Paul Gosar, Member

Dear Mr. Kornze:

According to media reports, you are considering merging the New Mexico and Arizona Bureau of Land Management (BLM) state offices in an attempt to boost efficiencies and reduce operating costs.[1]  We are concerned, however, that the net benefits of closing the New Mexico state office and merging it with the neighboring Arizona office do not outweigh the costs of such an action. As you know, each state has a unique cultural, political, tribal, social, and economic identity, and BLM’s management responsibilities vary substantially among the states.  Merging these offices under one regional director would significantly reduce BLM’s ability “to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.”

Read the entire letter HERE.

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TO: The Honorable Rob Bishop, Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources

FROM: Steven A. Ellis, Deputy Director, Operations

Dear Chairman Bishop:

Thank you for your letter dated May 18, 2015, inquiring about the potential merger of the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Arizona and New Mexico state offices. The BLM appreciates having had the opportunity to provide a briefing for your staff in regard to this matter.

Read the full response HERE. 

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TO: The Honorable Tom McClintock, Chairman, Subcommittee on Federal Lands

FROM: Steven A. Ellis, Deputy Director, Operations

Dear Chairman McClintock:

Thank you for your letter dated May 18, 2015, inquiring about the potential merger of the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Arizona and New Mexico state offices. The BLM appreciates having had the opportunity to provide a briefing for your staff in regard to this matter. 

Read the full response HERE.