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News2024-06-13T09:35:29-06:00

NMDGF News

For Hunter Education classes, please see Hunter Education Course Schedule and for the Hunter Educator Workshops schedule please see Hunter Educator Instructor.

Game Commission to meet May 16

HOBBS – The New Mexico State Game Commission will hold a meeting at 9 a.m., Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Lea County Event Center, 5101 N. Lovington Hwy., Hobbs, New Mexico 88240. The full agenda, location details, attendee information and general information will be available on the Department of Game and Fish website.   If you are interested in participating or providing comments, but cannot attend the meeting in person, you are encouraged to pre-register to attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. For those who wish only to view the meeting, there will also be a live webcast on the Department’s website.  If you are an individual with a disability who needs a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in the meeting, please contact Darren Vaughan at 505-476-8027 or darren.vaughan@dgf.nm.gov. Public documents, including the agenda and minutes, can be provided in [...]

Public Meeting: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Meet May 9

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting with the Citizen Advisory Committee. During this meeting, project status will be provided and updates will be presented. Members of the public are invited to attend this hybrid public meeting in order to provide comments. An agenda will be posted on the Habitat Stamp Program website prior to the meeting.  May 9, 2024, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, 1 p.m.  Attend in person at 40 Refuge Road, San Acacia, NM 87831  Register in advance to attend virtually  A meeting agenda along with information about how to attend and participate in the virtual component of this meeting will be available on the NMDGF webpage, http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/conservation/habitat-stamp.  Comments can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Habitat Stamp Program Manager, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507; or by email, PublicLandUserStamp@dgf.nm.gov, or in person at the [...]

Draw Results Released April 17, 2024

THE WAIT IS OVER! 2024-2025 Big Game Draw results are available now - seven days early! Get your results online now! At 6 a.m. today, the Department released draw results to customers' accounts on the Department website — seven days earlier than expected. Department personnel have worked tirelessly to be able to release the draw results early. Hunters can check their draw results by logging onto their customer account on the Department website. Unsuccessful applicants should receive refunds on credit cards over the next week. Check refunds for all other unsuccessful applicants will be processed by the end of April. 287,449 applications were submitted for deer, elk, antelope, oryx, ibex, bighorn sheep, Barbary sheep and javelina licenses. The Department issued 61,341 draw licenses. Habitat Stamp, Paper Tags and E-Tags Draw licenses and tags will be mailed to the address provided, unless you chose the e-tag option. Do not hunt without a valid license [...]

Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Applications Extended Until May 3, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 16, 2024: Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Applications Extended Until May 3, 2024 SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is accepting applications for its 2024-2025 Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Grants through May 3, 2024. These grants are available to not-for-profit organizations and federal, state and local government agencies. Entities can apply for up to $20,000 per project. Recipients may use grant funds for projects that enhance recreational use of side-by-sides, ATVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles on public lands. Projects promoting OHV safety or mitigating impacts from OHV use also qualify. Law enforcement agencies are eligible for special grant funds up to $15,000 to conduct OHV patrols, control paved road use of OHVs and enforce the provisions of the OHV Act (66-3-1001 through 66-3-1021 NMSA). Previous grants have funded the purchasing of the necessary equipment to clear and maintain the redeveloped Elephant Rock Trail in the Carson [...]

Project proposals sought for Share with Wildlife funding in FY 2025

As of April 1, 2024, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s (Department’s) Share with Wildlife program will begin accepting proposals for projects with a planned start date on or after January 15, 2025.  All project proposals are due by 4:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Friday, May 31, 2024. The Department’s Share with Wildlife program was initiated in the early 1980s and welcomes proposals for wildlife-focused projects taking place in New Mexico in four categories: habitat enhancement, biological and ecological research, wildlife rehabilitation, and wildlife education.  The program receives an average of about 30 proposals annually and has consistently funded approximately 9 - 11 projects each year.  This year, the Department is aiming to fund fewer, larger projects that may extend for 2 years maximum (see details below). Project topics of particular interest to the Department, details about proposal format, and submission directions are listed in the Call [...]

News Releases for 2021

Upland Game rule changes topic of public meeting

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 16, 2021: Upland Game rule changes topic of public meeting The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the Upland Game rule. The proposals are available on the Department’s proposals under consideration webpage. To gather public comments, one public meeting will be conducted via Zoom. The meeting will be held August 3 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Click here to join the virtual Zoom meeting. Or enter the following in your Zoom client: Meeting ID: 211 476 4712 Passcode: 202226 To join the meeting by phone, please dial 1-346-248-7799. You will be prompted to enter the Webinar ID: 211 476 4712 and Passcode: 202226 Presentation slides will be posted on the Department’s proposals under consideration webpage prior to the meeting [...]

Apply now for sandhill crane and pheasant draw permits

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 14, 2021: Apply now for sandhill crane and pheasant draw permits Sandhill Crane SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is now accepting applications for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits. Applications can be made through your online account. The application deadline for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 18. Successful applicants must have a Game Hunting license and applicable stamp(s) in addition to their draw permit. Successful sandhill crane applicants also must have a Harvest Information Program (HIP) number. Digital copies of the 2021-2022 Upland and Migratory Rules and Information Booklets will be available on the Department’s website later this year. ###

Comment period for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water Extended

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 22, 2021: Comment period for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water Extended SANTA FE – At the New Mexico State Game Commission meeting held Friday, June 18, 2021 at the New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse), agenda item 6, Applications for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water, was tabled until the August 12, 2021 Commission meeting, allowing additional time for public input. At the August 12, 2021 State Game Commission Meeting, to be held in Santa Fe, a hearing and final decision on applications of Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water will be included in the agenda. Applications can be found on our website and include: Rancho Del Oso Pardo, Inc. River Bend Ranch, LLC Chama II, LLC, dba Canones Creek Ranch Fenn Farm Three Rivers Cattle Ltd. Co The [...]

Department continues black bear population estimate survey in the Gila National Forest

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 14, 2021: Department continues black bear population estimate survey in the Gila National Forest SANTA FE – During the summer of 2021, Department biologists and conservation officers will be entering the second year of a two-year black bear population estimate study using hair snares in the Gila National Forest. Bear hair snares are a modern study technique designed to collect DNA and allow biologists to identify the number of bears in an area. Starting in early June, Department biologists and conservation officers will set up the hair snares across the Gila National Forest. The hair snares will consist of strands of barbed wire stretched across an area with bait in the middle. As bears duck under or step over the wire a small amount of hair [...]

Public Meeting: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Discuss Maintenance Projects

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 8, 2021: Public Meeting: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Discuss Maintenance Projects SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting to allow the Citizen Advisory Committee to discuss Habitat Stamp Program maintenance activities. Members of the public are invited to attend this virtual Zoom meeting Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. in order to offer feedback and ask questions. More information about this meeting is available on the NMDGF webpage http://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/conservation/habitat-stamp. Copies of the proposed projects are also available on this webpage. Those interested in attending and participating in this meeting are encouraged to pre-register and attend the meeting on the Zoom webinar platform. Comments can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game [...]

News Releases for 2020

Public Meetings on Proposed Changes to the Importation Rule

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, SEPT. 2, 2020: Public Meetings on Proposed Changes to the Importation Rule SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled two public meetings on proposed revisions to the Importation Rule 19.35.7 NMAC. A short presentation providing details of the proposed revisions will be given. The presentation will be followed by a Q & A session where members of the public are encouraged to ask questions and provide input. Members of the public are invited to attend one or both of these meetings (to be held virtually) to become familiar with the rule and the proposed revisions: September 23, 2020 at 6 p.m. Register in advance for this webinar here. September 30, 2020 at 6 p.m. Register in advance for this webinar here. [...]

Public Meetings on Proposed Revisions to the Habitat Stamp Program

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, August 28, 2020: Public Meetings on Proposed Revisions to the Habitat Stamp Program SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled two public meetings on proposed revisions to the Public Land User Stamp Rule 19.34.6 NMAC (Habitat Stamp Program Rule). A short presentation providing background information about the Habitat Stamp Program and details of the proposed revisions will be given. The presentation will be followed by a Q & A session where members of the public are encouraged to ask questions and provide input. Members of the public are invited to attend one or both of these meetings (to be held virtually) in order to become familiar with the program and the proposed revisions: September 10th at 6 p.m. Register in advance [...]

Game Commission to meet virtually Aug. 13

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, August 5, 2020: Game Commission to meet virtually Aug. 13 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet virtually Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8:30 a.m. The full agenda and other information will be available on the Department of Game and Fish website before the meeting. If you are interested in participating and providing comments, you are encouraged to pre-register to attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. More information, including how to join the meeting by phone, is available on the Department’s website. The New Mexico State Game Commission meeting will also be available to view via a live webcast on the Department’s website. Webcast participants can listen to the meeting using a desktop computer or mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. [...]

Los Alamos woman attacked by bear

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 18, 2020: Los Alamos woman attacked by bear SANTA FE – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officers are investigating a bear attack that occurred at the Pajarito Ski Area on Friday evening. The Los Alamos Police Department alerted conservation officers after receiving a distress call from the woman’s husband. The victim, 37, of Los Alamos and her husband were sitting on the deck at the lodge, observing Comet NEOWISE, when the bear approached them. Coming within a foot of the couple, the bear began chasing the woman and attacked her in the parking lot. The woman was taken to the Los Alamos Medical Center and later air lifted to University of New Mexico Hospital due to the severity of the injuries. Initial reports [...]

Apply now for sandhill crane and pheasant draw permits

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 13, 2020: Apply now for sandhill crane and pheasant draw permits SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will be accepting applications for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits starting 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15. Applications can be made online through your account or over the telephone with the Department’s information center, 1-888-248-6866. The application deadline for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 19. Pheasant hunts that will be included in the draw include: Hunt Area Hunt Code Season Dates Number of Permits Bernardo Youth Only PHE-0-001 Oct. 17 20 W.S. Huey Youth Only PHE-0-002 Dec. 5 40 W.S. Huey (open to all applicants) PHE-0-005 Dec. 12 40 Sandhill crane hunts that will be included in [...]

News Releases for 2019

Public comment sought on draft Environmental Assessment for construction of a shooting range in Clovis

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 31, 2019: Public comment sought on draft Environmental Assessment for construction of a shooting range in Clovis CLOVIS – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the construction of the Clovis Wing-shooting Complex and Archery Range at Ned Houk Park in Clovis. The EA analyzes potential effects on physical, biological and cultural resources and socioeconomic conditions that may result from the implementation of the project. The EA also incorporates other federal, state and local environmental policies and regulations and is prepared in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Environmental Policy Act Handbook. The proposed range would include a four trap/skeet combination fields, a sporting clays course, a 90-yard archery sight-in [...]

Bear and cougar rule changes topic of public meetings

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us Bear and cougar rule changes topic of public meetings SANTA FE –The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the bear and cougar rule. To gather public comments, four public meetings will be conducted: Raton: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. August 7 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 215 York Canyon Road Albuquerque: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. August 13 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 7816 Alamo Road, NW Las Cruces: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. August 15 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 2715 Northrise Drive Roswell: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. August 16 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 1615 West College Boulevard The proposals will be available on the Department’s website in late July, prior to [...]

Apply now for special sandhill crane and pheasant hunts

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 18, 2019: Apply now for special sandhill crane and pheasant hunts SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is now accepting applications for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits. Applications can be made online at the department’s website or over the telephone with the department’s information center, 1-888-248-6866. The application deadline for special sandhill crane and pheasant permits is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21. Information about pheasant and sandhill crane draw hunts is available in the department’s 2019-20 Small Game Hunting Rules and Information Booklet. Successful applicants must have a game hunting license and applicable stamp(s) in addition to their draw permit. Successful sandhill crane applicants also must have a Harvest Information Program (HIP) number. ###

Game Commission to meet July 24 in Socorro

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 16, 2019: Game Commission to meet July 24 in Socorro SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Wednesday, July 24, in Socorro to initiate the bear and cougar rule and discuss landowner certification of the non-navigable waters rule. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at New Mexico Tech Fidel Center located at 808 Olive Lane, in Socorro. Other agenda items include: A workshop, no commission action will be taken and no public comment will be taken during this agenda item: Update on the Mexico Gray Wolf program The Department’s organization and budget The Department’s draw allocation process Request to dispose of assets The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish [...]

Encouragement elk hunting licenses go on sale July 10

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 27, 2019: Encouragement elk hunting licenses go on sale July 10 SANTA FE – New Mexico resident youth and senior hunters who applied and were unsuccessful in the 2019-2020 big game draw are eligible for nearly 1,900 antlerless elk licenses. The licenses will go on sale through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s Online License System at 10 a.m. MDT July 10. The sale is designed to encourage unsuccessful applicants and includes almost 1,500 licenses for any legal sporting arm and 390 licenses for muzzleloader, crossbow or bow. Licenses will be sold online only on a first-come, first-served basis. To purchase a license, customers will need to log in to their Online License System account at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Eligibility requirements: For the first 14 days, the sale is open only to resident [...]

News Releases for 2018

Department seeking next generation of conservation officers

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 17, 2018: Department seeking next generation of conservation officers SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking qualified men and women to join the next generation of conservation officers, who protect and conserve New Mexico’s wildlife. The department is currently accepting applications for conservation officer trainees with a starting pay of $17.03 an hour. Applications for this position will be accepted until Oct. 8, 2018. Physical assessments and interviews will take place Nov. 3-4, 2018 in Santa Fe. Candidates who advance past the interviews may be required to stay in Santa Fe until Nov. 8 for further testing. Prior law enforcement experience is not required. Successful applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a field related to wildlife management, biology or criminal justice; [...]

Fox in Fort Sumner tests positive for rabies

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us New Mexico Department of Health Media Contact, Paul Rhien: (505) 470-2290 paul.rhien@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 10, 2018: Fox in Fort Sumner tests positive for rabies DE BACA COUNTY – On Tuesday, July 17, a landowner near Fort Sumner, who killed a fox exhibiting behaviors common with rabies, contacted Conservation Officer Jacob Laobato. New Mexico Department of Game and Fish submitted the fox for testing at the State Laboratory Division. Results came back positive for rabies. “The public should be vigilant and stay away from any animals behaving strangely,” said Dr. Kerry Mower, wildlife disease specialist for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. “People should ensure their pets’ vaccinations are current.” According to the New Mexico Department of Health, in addition to the fox, one skunk has tested [...]

Game Commission to meet Aug. 23 in Gallup

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG.13, 2018: Game Commission to meet Aug. 23 in Gallup SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Thursday, Aug. 23, in Gallup to review final rule changes on Barbary sheep, oryx and Persian ibex. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the El Morro Events Center located at 210 South Second Street, in Gallup. Other agenda items include: Construction updates on the Albuquerque and Roswell office complexes. Subsequent discussions on potential rule changes for deer, elk, E-Plus, hunting and fishing license application rule and hunting and fishing manner and method. The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. Details of proposed rules and opportunities to comment are also available on [...]

Game and Fish investigates fish die off at Quemado Lake

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 10, 2018: Game and Fish investigates fish die off at Quemado Lake QUEMADO – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is investigating a fish die off at Quemado Lake, following reports earlier this week that fish in the lake were dying. The die off affected multiple species including tiger muskies, goldfish, grass carp, crayfish and fathead minnows and is being attributed to low oxygen levels. “Due to recent weather patterns across the state, including drought and high temperatures, die offs have also been noted in the Pecos River, Coyote Creek, Rancho Grande Ponds and areas around Elephant Butte” said Eric Frey, sportfish program manager. Fish that are caught using legal fishing equipment are safe to consume, however, it is not recommended to collect and [...]

Special hunter education camp offered at Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Jennifer Morgan: (505) 222-4722 jennifer.morgan@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 10, 2018: Special hunter education camp offered at Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron CIMARRON – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is offering a special hunter education camp where youth can receive hands-on training and earn their hunter education certification for free. To hunt legally in New Mexico, youths under 18 years of age must first successfully complete a hunter education course or be registered in the department’s Mentored-Youth Hunting Program. The camp is open to youth ages 10 to 17 who are accompanied by a responsible adult, also registerd for the camp. It will be conducted the weekend of Sept. 7-8, at the renowed Philmont Boy Scout Ranch near Cimarron. Meals and lodging in canvas tents are free. Registration for this camp opportunity [...]

News Releases for 2017

Public meetings will address proposed changes to fishing rules

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Dan Williams: (505) 476-8004 dan.williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 22, 2017: Public meetings will address proposed changes to fishing rules SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish will conduct eight public meetings around the state in the next two weeks to discuss and hear comments about proposed changes to the state’s fishing rules. The department is considering various changes to rules that are reviewed every four years. They include: Modifications to the Special Trout Water program. New Trophy Bass Waters with a reduced daily limit of 2 largemouth bass at Lake Roberts, Bill Evans Lake and Clayton Lake, with bow and spear-fishing restrictions. Lifting catch-and-release designation at Brantley Lake. Adding Alumni Pond, Corona Pond, Estancia Pond, Perch Lake, Rancho Grande Ponds, Roswell Kids Ponds, and the Rio Grande below Elephant Butte as winter [...]

Roswell man arrested for harassing pronghorns

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Dan Williams: (505) 476-8004 dan.williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUGUST 17, 2017: Roswell man arrested for harassing pronghorns SANTA FE – Tips from the public resulted in the arrest of a 28-year-old Roswell man for allegedly harassing wildlife after he was reportedly seen chasing a herd of pronghorns with his four-wheel off-highway vehicle. Enrico Amaya, 28, of the 600 block of Pine St., Roswell, was arrested Aug. 11 by Cpl. Tyson Sanders, a New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officer stationed in Roswell. Sanders had received tips from the public reporting someone riding an off-highway vehicle and chasing a herd of pronghorns in a pasture near town on several recent occasions. Sanders identified, questioned and arrested Amaya. A video camera and digital media card also was confiscated from Amaya. Sanders wrote in his affidavit [...]

Special hunter education camp offered at Camp Thunderbird near Mimbres

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Aug. 16, 2017: Special hunter education camp offered at Camp Thunderbird near Mimbres MIMBRES – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is offering a special hunter education camp where youths can receive hands-on training and earn their hunter education certification free of charge. The camp is open to youths ages 10 to 18 who are accompanied by a responsible adult. It will be conducted the weekend of Sept. 15-17 at Camp Thunderbird in the Gila National Forest. Lodging and meals are free and all equipment is provided. Registration for this camp is now open. Those interested in attending must complete and return the registration form available at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter-education/ by noon Sept. 1 to be eligible. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The [...]

Learn to shoot, fish and have outdoor fun at the Expo

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Aug. 15, 2017: Learn to shoot, fish and have outdoor fun at the Expo ALBUQUERQUE – Learn to shoot firearms, catch fish and other outdoor recreational skills at the Department of Game and Fish’s annual Outdoor Expo at the City of Albuquerque Shooting Range Park this weekend. “This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to learn outdoor skills,” says Alexa Sandoval, director of the Department of Game and Fish. “Our training can lead to a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment.” All instruction and equipment used during the event is provided free. The event for all ages runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20, at the park on the west mesa. Participants can learn [...]

Hooked on Fishing derby lots of fun

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Dan Williams: (505) 476-8004 Dan.Williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Aug. 11, 2017: Hooked on Fishing derby lots of fun HOBBS – The fifth annual Hooked on Fishing derby at Harry McAdams Park Pond in Hobbs Aug. 5 drew 175 children and their families and resulted in a 27-inch, 6.5-pound catfish being caught. Over 100 catfish, sunfish and largemouth bass were caught during the first hour of the event sponsored by the city of Hobbs and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. All registered anglers received a prize for participating. Free hotdogs, chips and cold water were provided. Guests also practiced shooting on portable archery and pellet gun ranges and were given a chance to improve their skills with coaching from department game wardens. Event organizers reported good public [...]

News Releases for 2016

Meeting scheduled on proposed Rio Chama catch-and-release fishing section

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 20, 2016: Meeting scheduled on proposed Rio Chama catch-and-release fishing section HERON LAKE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 27 at the Heron Lake State Park Visitor Center to discuss a proposal designating 3.5 miles of the Rio Chama below El Vado Dam as a catch-and-release water with tackle restrictions. The proposal stems from public comments received about the department’s recently updated statewide fisheries management plan. The proposal and plan can be viewed and comments submitted on the department’s website, http://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/commission/proposals-under-consideration/. Department staff will provide information about the proposal at the meeting and accept comments for consideration by the State Game Commission at an upcoming meeting. The 1.5-mile stretch of the river [...]

Late-season archery elk licenses available Oct. 26

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 12, 2016: Late-season archery elk licenses available Oct. 26 SANTA FE – There will be 275 first-come, first-served late-season bull elk archery hunting licenses on sale beginning Oct. 26 on the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website. The sale will begin at 10 a.m. and will be open only to New Mexico residents for the first 24 hours, after which any remaining licenses will be available to everyone. Only hunters who did not hold a 2016-2017 elk license are eligible. The bag limit for the late-season hunts is one bull elk with antlers having at least six points on one side. Hunters are advised to obtain an online customer account or review their existing account, including user name and password, before the sale begins. [...]

Game Commission to meet Oct. 5 in Las Vegas, N.M.

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, SEPT. 26, 2016: Game Commission to meet Oct. 5 in Las Vegas, N.M. SANTA FE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet Wednesday, Oct. 5, in Las Vegas, N.M., to consider numerous matters, including proposed fishing rules changes. Please note the commission will meet on Wednesday instead of a Thursday, the day it normally meets. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016, at New Mexico Highlands University, Adele Ilfed Auditorium, 800 University Avenue, Las Vegas. Other agenda items include: Update on hunter education program initiatives. Update on negotiations with the State Land Office for public access to hunt, fish and trap on State Trust Lands during the 2017-18 season. Update on proposed shooting range developments. The full agenda, detailed agenda-item briefings and [...]

Trout in Classroom program helps teacher win top award

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Sept. 23, 2016: Trout in the Classroom program helps New Mexico science teacher win presidential award FARMINGTON – Cindy Colomb has used the Trout in the Classroom program for years to teach her sixth-grade science students about biology, and it just helped her win a presidential award. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish supports Trout in the Classroom projects around the state by providing trout eggs, technical assistance and staff for classroom presentations and field trips. Colomb and three other New Mexico teachers recently received a highly coveted Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The Trout in the Classroom program, pioneered by Trout Unlimited, allows students to raise trout in their classrooms and later release them into the wild. The students learn [...]

Raton receives 650 new bear resistant trash dumpsters

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Sept. 23, 2016 Raton receives 650 new bear resistant trash dumpsters Bear Resistant Dumpster RATON – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the City of Raton have installed 650 bear-resistant trash dumpsters to discourage bears from frequenting the town in search of food. “The collaborative project has been a huge success,” said Scott Berry, Raton’s city manager. “The new containers have provided numerous benefits, including decreased operating costs associated with cleanup, a cleaner city and a healthier environment for the area’s wildlife.” The department partnered with the city to buy the custom-built dumpsters and contributed about $382,500 to the effort. The city provided another $213,000, said Bob Osborn, the department’s assistant chief of private lands programs. [...]

News Releases for 2015

Wildlife crimes net stiff fines and jail time

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, SEPT. 4, 2015: WILDLIFE CRIMES NET STIFF FINES AND JAIL TIME RATON –A Colfax County magistrate judge fined two Raton men more than $7,000 and sentenced one to 60 days in jail for “egregious” crimes against wildlife. Judge Warren Walton convicted Michael A. Malcom, 29, of Raton on 13 charges including criminal trespass, illegal trapping and unlawful possession of deer and other wildlife parts following a bench trial Aug. 31, according to court records. Walton characterized Malcom’s crimes as “egregious” and sentenced him to 60 days in jail and fined him $6,500 and $689 in court costs. State Department of Game and Fish officers discovered Malcom trespassing on Vermejo Park Ranch last December. He was suspected of illegal trapping. Malcolm could not produce a valid trapping license but did [...]

Statelifts catch and release recommendation for Animas and San Juan Rivers

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, SEPT. 4, 2015: STATE LIFTS CATCH AND RELEASE RECOMMENDATION FOR ANIMAS AND SAN JUAN RIVERS SANTA FE – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish biologists have determined fish caught in sections of the Animas and San Juan rivers affected by last month’s Gold King Mine wastewater spill in Colorado are safe to eat. A laboratory in Colorado tested the organs and tissue for lead, mercury, selenium, copper, arsenic and cadmium in 17 fish, five catfish, and 12 trout that were taken from the affected areas of the rivers. “Tissue samples from fish tested revealed trace amounts of metals that are within acceptable levels for human consumption,” said Mike Sloane, chief of fisheries for the Department. “After consulting with the Environment Department and the Department of Health, we have [...]

Department seeks next generation of conservation officers

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 28, 2015: DEPARTMENT SEEKS NEXT GENERATION OF CONSERVATION OFFICERS SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking qualified men and women to join the next generation of Conservation Officers who protect and conserve the state’s wildlife. The department is accepting applications for game warden trainees with a starting pay of $17.03 an hour with an increase upon successful completion of required training. Prior law enforcement experience is not required, but successful applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field, pass a psychological and medical exam, and fitness and drug tests. Recruits will receive basic training at the Law Enforcement Academy and on-the-job training before working alone in the field. Conservation officers enforce New Mexico’s game and fish laws and investigate and pursue criminal [...]

Hunting seasons ramp up across New Mexico

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 28: HUNTING SEASONS RAMP UP ACROSS NEW MEXICO SANTA FE – Many hunters will be taking to the woods and fields across New Mexico starting Sept. 1, the opening day for deer, elk and turkey archery hunts and for most small game and upland game birds. Hunting seasons for doves, blue grouse, band-tailed pigeons and squirrels will open in many areas of the state starting Sept. 1. Licenses, maps, questionnaires and other related materials are available online at the Game and Fish Department’s website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The 2015-16 migratory game-bird hunting rules and information booklet is available on the department website. Printed copies will be available soon at game and fish offices and license vendors. The department will accept draw applications for sandhill crane and pheasant hunts from Sept. [...]

Game Commission meet Aug. 27 in Santa Fe

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 14: GAME COMMISSION TO MEET AUG. 27 IN SANTA FE SANTA FE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet Aug. 27 in Santa Fe to consider numerous matters, including discussion of a new statewide fisheries management plan. The meeting will be from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015, at the Santa Fe Community College Jemez Rooms, 6401 Richards Ave., Santa Fe. Other agenda items include: Discussion of the development of a new easement to provide continued sportsmen access to State Trust Lands for the 2016-2017 hunting seasons. Final department proposals to the Bear and Cougar Rule based on public comment, harvest data, population status and other management needs. United States Fish and Wildlife Service appeal of the department’s denial of its request to release [...]

News Releases for 2014

Off-highway Vehicle Program announces grant awards for 2014

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Marc Hildesheim, (505) 222-4728 Public contact: (888) 248-6966 marc.hildesheim@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 10, 2014 OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE PROGRAM ANNOUNCES GRANT AWARDS FOR 2014 SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Off-Highway Vehicle Program has selected 10 grant proposals to share in $105,000 awarded from the Trail Safety Fund administered by the department. The New Mexico Legislature mandated that fees from all-terrain vehicle, dirt bike, recreational off-highway vehicle, and snowmobile registrations be collected in the Trail Safety Fund, and a portion awarded as grants to encourage safe and responsible OHV recreation that respects the state’s natural, historic, and cultural heritage. Projects funded for the 2014-2015 grant cycle include multiple-use trail construction and maintenance, safety training facility improvements, trail guidebooks, and public information kiosks at trailheads. Grant recipients include the Lincoln and Cibola National Forests, the City of Santa [...]

Department of Game and Fish officers busy over holiday

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071; cell: (505) 470-6832 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 10, 2014 DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH OFFICERS BUSY OVER HOLIDAY SANTA FE – Department of Game and Fish law enforcement officers spent the Fourth of July weekend patrolling lakes and recreation areas throughout the state in an effort to keep people and New Mexico’s wildlife safe. Officers contacted more than 2,000 anglers and people riding off-highway vehicles to check for licenses and permits. They also assisted State Parks officers, responded to bear complaints, and enforced OHV safety rules and fishing bag limits. Officers issued more than 200 citations over the weekend, a small percentage of those checked. Most of the citations were for fishing without a license. Fishing violations can result in fines of $50 to $500 and up to six months in jail. [...]

Catch outdoor rewards this Independence Day

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071; cell: (505) 470-6832 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JULY 3, 2014 CATCH OUTDOOR REWARDS THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish, in collaboration with area chambers of commerce and the New Mexico Tourism Department, want to make your fishing experience a little richer with a special fishing event starting this holiday weekend. The department will release five large trout into state waters somewhere in New Mexico that have been tagged for cash prizes totaling $1,000. It is up to anglers to decipher clues pointing to the whereabouts of the fish, then find and catch the fish for prizes. Local chambers of commerce will provide the cash awards. Lucky anglers who catch one of the five trout can redeem the numbered tag from the fish for $200 at the nearest [...]

WAFWA Lesser Prairie-Chicken Range-Wide Plan Nears 4 Million Acres

Media Contact: Bill Van Pelt, WAFWA Grassland Coordinator bill.vanpelt@wafwa.org (602) 717-5066 Date: July 1, 2014 Aerial Survey Shows Lesser Prairie-Chicken Population Increased 20 Percent in 2014 Biologists Note Regional Populations Fluctuate, Emphasize Value of Improved Habitat The third annual lesser prairie-chicken aerial survey shows a nearly 20 percent increase in the bird’s range-wide population, up from an estimated 18,747 birds in 2013 to 22,415 this year. While wildlife biologists are encouraged by the increase, they note that prairie-chicken numbers can fluctuate up and down from year to year, mainly due to grassland habitat conditions influenced by rainfall. The range-wide increase was not evenly spread across the bird’s four habitat regions distributed among five states—Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. The mixed grass prairie region showed the biggest gain, a region that includes the northeast Texas Panhandle, northwestern Oklahoma and south central Kansas, an area where more rain produced better [...]

More than 2,000 youth elk licenses for sale beginning July 9

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071; cell: (505) 470-6832 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 26, 2014 MORE THAN 2,000 YOUTH ELK LICENSES FOR SALE BEGINNING JULY 9 SANTA FE –More than 2,000 youth antlerless elk licenses will go on sale through the Department of Game and Fish’s Online License System at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 9. To purchase a license, customers will need to log in to their Online License System account at https://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us/. The sale is designed to encourage youth hunting and includes almost 1,500 licenses for hunters using any legal weapon and 540 licenses for hunters using a muzzleloader or bow. Licenses will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and hunters must be younger than 18 years of age on opening day of the hunt to be eligible. For the first 14 days, the sale will [...]

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