Recommended as component of proposed NM rivers system and NM Natural Areas Inventory has identified the red rock cliff area as significant. The river varies from the pristine setting in the Wilderness and National Forest to a broad sandy floodplain traversing low, rolling terrain. In NM, the river valley is important as habitat for a variety of state listed endangered species, but is unique because of the tremendous diversity of wildlife species found in the area. Highly eroded deep canyon with steep rock walls. Numerous archeological sites with National Register potential.
Scientific values are high- great opportunities for research.
Strata is vivid and well displayed with many cliffs and very narrow side canyons. Southern Bald Eagle is a resident. Steep sided canyons with associated high quality riparian and aquatic habitat. Numerous old Spanish homesteads can be found along the river. The river is unique for its free-flowing character on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, exhibiting natural hydrologic cycles.