New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center, (888) 248-6866
Media contact: Zen Mocarski, (505) 476-8013
zenon.mocarski@state.nm.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 2, 2016:
Game and Fish conservation officers busy over holiday weekend
SANTA FE – Memorial Day weekend ushers in a new season, a time of year when tourism begins to blossom, outdoor recreationists take to the field and anglers dust off their rods and reels.
Conservation officers with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish spent the weekend educating the public and protecting the state’s resources. They made over 4,000 contacts with the public during more than 900 hours of patrolling.
With fishing activity increasing, it is important for anglers to purchase a current license and any required stamps. While the majority of the officers’ contacts did not result in citations, 219 were written, the most common for fishing without a license and not having required stamps.
The funds received from the purchase of licenses is the primary funding source for statewide stocking efforts. Those fishing without a license are taking fish paid for by others.
“A fishing license is affordable and serves as a means for the department to continue offering excellent angling opportunities throughout New Mexico,” said Officer Rey Sanchez, major for northern field operations. “Officers have an obligation to protect the resource for those who are supporting wildlife conservation with the purchase of our licenses.”
The warmer weather also has increased off-highway vehicle activity and it is important for anyone operating such a vehicle to become knowledgeable about state laws.
Rules and regulations can be reviewed and licenses can be purchased easily by visiting the department website, wildlife.state.nm.us.
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