Rancher teams with environmentalists – Cattle owner sees future with former enemy groups

QUEMADO, N.M. — Just a few miles from Jim Williams’ ranch, a challenge is played out along state Route 117 near this tiny village southwest of Albuquerque.

Two signs tell the story. One, on the west side of the highway, has fancy lettering and enticing colors. It reads: "Land for sale. 10 acre parcels. Easy financing. Superb views, pine covered."

Advertisement
Another, on the opposite side of the highway, is black and white, simple in sentiment. It says: "Farmers and Ranchers Provide Habitat for Wildlife."

Within a distance of less than half a mile and without a word being spoken, the fight for the future of New Mexico’s rangelands is spelled out.

By Carrie Seidman, Albuquerque Tribune

http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/national_intl_business/article/0,1713,BDC_2464_3407945,00.html