Walter E. Stern III
Walter brings over thirty-five years of experience providing representation, advice and counsel to businesses and individuals in their dealings with Indian tribes and public land management agencies, like the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service and New Mexico State Land Office. Walter's practice is focused on natural resources, energy and environmental law.
Clients throughout the west and across the country seek Walter's advice in matters involving transactions, disputes and consultations with Indian tribes and other Native American groups. In addition, clients look to Walter when pursuing federal lands leasing, development, and related permitting and environmental compliance efforts under the National Environmental Policy Act ("NEPA"), Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the Endangered Species Act, and related federal statutes.
Walter also is actively involved in community and professional non-profit organizations. He has served as President of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation, a world-class continuing education provider for professionals working in the areas of natural resources development and environmental law. In addition, Walter served as the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Albuquerque Academy, an independent day school, and is Chair-Elect of the Albuquerque Community Foundation and chairs the Community Foundation's Impact Investment Committee which is making a difference in Albuquerque through locally focused investments in businesses and non-profits, trading some financial returns for social impact returns in the community.
Walter has served as President of Modrall Sperling and Chair of the Executive Committee since January, 2013.
- Natural Resources, Energy and Environmental Law (NREEL) Section of the State Bar of New Mexico Natural Resources Lawyer of the Year, 2014.
- Best Lawyers in America® in Energy Law, Environmental Law, Mining Law, Native American Law, Natural Resources Law, and Oil and Gas Law, 1995-present
- Chambers USA Directories of America's Leading Lawyers for Business, recognized Nationwide in Native American Law, 2013-present; in New Mexico in Environment, Natural Resources & Regulated Industries, and Native American Law, 2004-present
- Law Dragon 500 – New Stars New World, 2006
- Martindale-Hubbell AV® Peer Review Rated
- Southwest Super Lawyers® (derived from a lawyer survey) 2007-present; Top 25 Super Lawyers in New Mexico, 2007, 2008
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103