The preservation, protection and maintenance of the natural and scenic beauty of a designated portion of the Chama river and its immediate corridor is in the public interest and is compatible with the multiple use of New Mexico’s natural resources. The designation of El Rio Chama scenic and pastoral river will enable the people of the area to enjoy the recreational, environmental and wildlife benefits of the river. Therefore, the legislature declares it to be in the public interest, in furtherance of sound environmental policy and for the good of the people, to establish a scenic and pastoral river known as El Rio Chama.