Jemez Pueblo wants the state of New Mexico to return 70 acres of ancestral territory.

The land in Pecos Canyon is owned by the state Department of Game and Fish. The tribe still uses it for religious purposes.

The land also happens to be part of a popular campsite. Local officials say they oppose the return of any land to the tribe.

Jemez Gov. Paul Chinana said the tribe is willing to buy the land if necessary. He said the state doesn't have enough funds to protect the site from campers.

"The people that camp around there trash it out," Chinana told The Santa Fe New Mexican. "They defecate along the river and bring their dogs. They trash out the Terrero Cave."

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Pueblo wants land in Pecos Canyon (The Santa Fe New Mexican 5/23)