Land and Resource Use Issues at the Valles Caldera

Abstract

The Vallee Caldera possesses a wealth of resources from which various private parties as well s the public at large can benefit. Among the most significant of these are the geothermal energy resource and the natural resource. Wildlife, scenic, and recreational resources can be considered components of the natural resource. In addition, Native Americans in the area value the Valles Caldera as part of their religion. The use of land in the caldera to achieved the full benefits of one resource may adversely affect the value of other resources. Measures can be taken to minimize adverse effects and to maximize the benefits to all the varied resources within the caldera as equitably as possible. An understanding of present and potential land and benefit form these uses, can lead to the formulation of such measures.