BLM New Mexico Archaeology
BLM New Mexico manages internationally recognized World Heritage List Chacoan Outliers, the dramatic architecture of 18th century Navajo refugee sites, dry caves and rock shelters containing remarkably well-preserved materials thousands of years old, huge lithic and ceramic scatters that can extend for over a mile in diameter, 2,000-room pueblos that dwarf Pueblo Bonito in Chaco Canyon, outstanding rock art, National Historic Trails such as El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro and the Old Spanish Trail, homesteads occupied by Dust Bowl migrants and local Hispanic families, and many other amazing resources.
In managing these resources, the BLM places a strong emphasis on government-to-government relations with American Indian tribes with interests in the four-state area. Many Tribes and tribal members do business with BLM. By law, BLM also has a trust responsibility to the tribes in the management of some natural resources. The BLM works closely with tribes to conserve and protect cultural and natural resources on public lands.
Pueblitos of Dinetah
The Navajo (Diné) constructed defensive sites in the 17th and 18th centuries, and used them defensively as well as for shelters and cooking. They are often situated on large boulders or outcrops, allowing the residents to have maximum vantage points. Architectural elements include roofs, hooded fireplaces, hogan foundations, as well as peep holes for doorway security. Many of these small, aboveground masonry structures, many perched precariously on large boulders or cliff edges, are managed by the BLM out of the Farmington Field Office.
