After a hike through southern New Mexico's rugged desert landscape, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell says it's clear why the state is known as the Land of Enchantment.
Jewell toured Broad Canyon outside of Las Cruces on Friday before headlining a public meeting that centered on federal legislation for protecting the Organ Mountains and other scenic areas in Dona Ana County.
The legislation would carve out one fifth of the county and designate it as the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.
Several hundred people turned out for the meeting.
Jewell says the area has a rich history as well as many opportunities for enjoying the outdoors.
Jewell also met Thursday with U.S. Border Patrol officials to underscore her agency's commitment to cooperate when it comes to law enforcement along the international border.
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