The letter the society has voted to send regarding chaco canyon's proposed road paving issue.

The Albuquerque Archaeological Society has recently learned about the proposal to pave County Road 7950 leading into Chaco Canyon. Our membership is deeply concerned about this proposal and the adverse effects this would have on Chaco Canyon, if completed.

Among our primary concerns are the impacts that would result from the rise in visitation to the park and the subsequent development that would come with a paved road. A paved road to Chaco will increase visitation to the park, putting strains on fragile park resources and staff. Anticipated consequences of this would be a rise in vandalism, concerns for the integrity of ancient standing structures, and insufficient staff numbers to educate visitors and provide for resource protection and management. Furthermore, a paved road to Chaco Canyon will undoubtedly result in increased development along the roadway. This means more traffic, more structures, and more lights. As you know, one of Chaco’s prized resources is its history of archaeoastronomy and the dark night sky that has been safeguarded over the centuries by its remote location. Paving the road will significantly and irreparably degrade this unique resource of the Southwest.

On behalf of the Albuquerque Archaeological Society, I urge you to consider these serious concerns that will threaten one of the region’s greatest cultural treasures.

Sincerely,

Dara Saville
President, Albuquerque Archaeological Society