Drilling Fight Near Tribal Site Shows Challenge Awaiting Haaland

Rep. Deb Haaland’s road to confirmation as the nation’s first Native American Interior secretary is likely to pass through New Mexico’s Chaco Canyon.

The sacred and historic site is at the nexus of fossil fuels, environmental justice, and conservation issues likely to be raised at the Senate confirmation hearing for Haaland (D-N.M.). The nomination has run into Republican objections over her stances on oil and gas drilling.

Tribes from Alaska to New Mexico have frequently objected to what they say is the Interior Department’s past failure to consult with tribal officials on proposed ...