New Mexico governor signs executive order for sacred Zuni Lake
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson (D) signed an executive order to extend protections for the sacred Zuni Salt Lake.

The order directs state agencies to work with the Zuni Pueblo to "ensure the continuing survival and integrity of the Zuni Salt Lake in perpetuity." The lake has been threatened by mining activities in the area.

"This day will be remembered in Zuni for a long time to come, not just for what is being signed by our friend Governor Bill Richardson today, but for all the battles that have been fought by a collection of individuals, tribal leaders, organizations and friends of our Mother, Zuni Salt Lake, for many years," Zuni Gov. Norman Cooeyate said in a press release.

The lake is also considered sacred by other tribes in New Mexico and Arizona.

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NM agencies to help protect sacred lake (AP 11/10)