Here's why:
* Uranium prospecting was already active: The region was known for its uranium potential, and prospecting was ongoing well before 1950.
* Multiple discoveries: Many miners and prospectors likely found uranium deposits in the Northwest New Mexico area throughout the early to mid-20th century. It's difficult to pinpoint a single person or event.
Important Note: If you are interested in learning more about the history of uranium mining in New Mexico, I recommend searching for information on:
* The Grants Mineral Belt: This area in Northwest New Mexico was a major uranium mining district.
* The Manhattan Project: This government project during World War II led to a surge in uranium mining and exploration.
* The Atomic Energy Commission: This organization played a major role in regulating and developing the uranium industry in the US.
I hope this helps!