Anglers press NM regulators over natural gas cutoff | News

FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) - Anglers who fish in the San Juan River are calling on New Mexico officials to maintain natural gas service in the Four Corners region.

The Albuquerque Journal reports fishermen from outside the state are behind a majority of complaints regarding the decision by New Mexico Gas Co. to cut off gas to dozens of customers below the Navajo Dam, including hotels and fly-fishing businesses.

Several fishermen say they will consider vacationing elsewhere if local businesses are forced to close or scale back services.

New Mexico Gas has said the cutoff is a business decision.

In April, the utility said it would give the 71 affected customers $5,000 to help convert to propane or electric heat.

Fisheads San Juan River Lodge filed a complaint, saying that would not be enough.

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