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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 August 25

SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will hold a meeting at 9 a.m., Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, in the City of Raton Commission Chambers, 224 Savage Ave.; Raton, New Mexico 87740. 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 and providing comments, but cannot attend the meeting in person, you are encouraged to pre-register to attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. In addition, there will be 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. 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 [...]

Apply now for sandhill crane and pheasant draw permits

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. 16. 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. The 2023-2024 Upland Game Rules and Information Booklet is currently available on the Department’s website in both English and Spanish. The 2023-2024 Migratory Bird Rules and Information Booklet will be available on the website following Friday's State Game Commission meeting.

Public Meetings: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Meet July 25 and 27

ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled public meetings with the Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee. During these meetings, upcoming project opportunities will be presented and prioritized for implementation. Members of the public are invited to attend this hybrid public meeting in order to provide comments. The public is encouraged to visit the habitat stamp website and review the current year project opportunities prior to the meeting: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/conservation/habitat-stamp/. July 25, 2023, Albuquerque, 2 p.m. - Presentations Attend in person at 7816 Alamo Rd NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico Register in Advance to attend virtually July 27, 2023, Albuquerque, 5:30 p.m. - Prioritization Attend in person at 7816 Alamo Rd NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico Register in Advance to attend virtually Information about how to attend and participate in the virtual component of this meeting is available on the NMDGF webpage, https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/conservation/habitat-stamp/. Comments can be provided by mail: [...]

Game Commission to meet July 21

SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will hold a meeting at 9 a.m., Friday, July 21, 2023, in the Hunter Education Classroom at the NMDGF Northwest Area Office; 7816 Alamo Rd. NW; Albuquerque, New Mexico 87120. 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 and providing comments, but cannot attend the meeting in person, you are encouraged to pre-register to attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. In addition, there will be 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. 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 [...]

Bear and Cougar Rule 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 (19.31.11 NMAC), which opened at the State Game Commission meeting on April 28, 2023.  For bear, the Department is seeking input on harvest limits, zone boundaries and season start dates. Additionally, the Department is proposing increasing the number of draw permits for some fall hunts and allowing deer or elk hunters who draw wildlife management area hunts to harvest a bear or cougar during their hunt if the zone is open and they possess a bear and/or cougar license.   For cougar, the Department is seeking input on adjusting harvest limits in Cougar Management Zones based on recent research.   The Department is also seeking input on changing zone closure requirements when closing a zone based on the female harvest limit such that zones close when the female harvest limit is reached.  To gather [...]

News Releases for 2021

Department Announces Sudden Passing of Commissioner David Soules

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, MARCH 30, 2021: Department Announces Sudden Passing of Commissioner David Soules SANTA FE - The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is saddened to announce State Game Commissioner David Soules died suddenly late Friday. “We are heartbroken and saddened,” said Sharon Salazar Hickey, Chair of the State Game Commission. “David had the deepest passion and advocacy for hunting, wildlife and the outdoors. So many knew him through his outstanding service on sportsmen and wildlife conservation boards and he was trusted and respected by the entire hunting and non-hunting wildlife conservation community.” Solues, age 63 of Las Cruces, New Mexico, was appointed to the Commission in 2019. During his tenure on the Commission, he was instrumental in negotiating the State Game Commission Easement for Hunter and Angler [...]

Department recruiting 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, MARCH 18, 2021: Department recruiting Conservation Officers SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking qualified men and women to become 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 $18.33 an hour. Upon completing training, officers will be promoted to District Wildlife Officer and receive a pay raise to $20.70 an hour. Applications for this position will be accepted until 5 p.m. April 18, 2021. Physical assessments and interviews will take place May 1 and 2, 2021 in Santa Fe. Candidates who advance past the interviews may be required to stay in Santa Fe until May 5, 2021, for further testing. Please see the Department’s conservation officers career [...]

Special Game Commission meeting to be held virtually March 22

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, MARCH 17, 2021: Special Game Commission meeting to be held virtually March 22 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will hold a special virtual meeting, Monday, March 22, at 3 p.m., for an executive session to discuss pending litigation. 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 [...]

Invasive mussel found in aquarium plants in New Mexico

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, MARCH 12, 2021: Invasive mussel found in aquarium plants in New Mexico Santa Fe – Invasive zebra mussels have been found in moss balls sold as aquarium plants in pet stores and through online vendors across the state. Any moss balls purchased in New Mexico or online within the last year may pose serious risks to our state’s waterbodies, water systems and wildlife. Retailers and anyone who has recently purchased a moss ball are urged to immediately follow the steps below to protect our waters and wildlife resources. Remove moss ball and any aquarium items and place in a heat safe pot; fill pot with tap water. Bring water to a boil and boil contents for a minimum of one minute. Discard moss ball in the trash; [...]

Wild Population of Mexican Wolves Grows for Fifth Consecutive Year

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Media contact, Aislinn Maestas: 505-331-9280 aislinn_maestas@fws.gov Arizona Game and Fish Department Media Contact, Jackie Follmuth: 928-532-3691 jfollmuth@azgfd.gov 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, MARCH 12, 2021: Wild Population of Mexican Wolves Grows for Fifth Consecutive Year 2020 survey shows at least 186 wolves across the Southwest SANTA FE – The wild population of Mexican wolves in the United States saw its fifth consecutive year of growth in 2020. According to the recent count, the U.S. population of Mexican wolves has increased by 14% since last year, raising the total number of wolves in the wild to a minimum of 186 animals. From Nov. 2020 through Jan. 2021, the Interagency Field Team (IFT) conducted ground counts in Ariz. and N.M. that concluded with aerial counts of Mexican wolves in [...]

News Releases for 2020

Game Commission to meet virtually April 30

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, APRIL 24, 2020: Game Commission to meet virtually April 30 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet virtually Thursday, April 30, for subsequent discussion on the Migratory Bird Rule for 2020-2021 and final discussion on the Manner and Method Rule. The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. Information on open rules can be found by clicking here. 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 [...]

Special Game Commission meeting to be held virtually April 20

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, APRIL 18, 2020: Special Game Commission meeting to be held virtually April 20 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet virtually Monday, April 20, for executive session and general public comment. The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. 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. The webcast can be accessed by clicking here. Webcast participants can listen to the meeting using [...]

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Cause for Rabbit Mortality

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027, tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us New Mexico Livestock Board Media contact, Mary Catey: (505) 841-6161, mary.catey@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 7, 2020: Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Cause for Rabbit Mortality SANTA FE, NM -  The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (Department) and the New Mexico Livestock Board report that Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus type 2 (RHDV-2) is the cause for recent rabbit deaths in both wild jackrabbit and cottontail populations as well as in domestic rabbit production facilities. RHDV-2 is highly contagious among rabbits; however, it is not known to be transmissible to humans or pets. RHDV-2 is from a different viral family from the corona virus and is not related to COVID-19. The Department collected carcasses for testing after reports of dead wild rabbits in early March. Mortalities in domestic rabbits also resulted in testing during this time. Tests [...]

Department closes additional properties

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, APRIL 6, 2020: Department closes additional properties SANTA FE – At sunset Monday, April 6, 2020, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will close multiple Wildlife Managements Areas and Open Gate properties to promote public safety. Closures include: Bear Canyon Reservoir near Mimbres Bill Evans Lake Wildlife Management Area near Silver City Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area near Eagle Nest Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association (RCCLA) Open Gate public fishing access near Costilla Rio de los Pinos Wildlife Management Area near Tres Piedras along the New Mexico/Colorado border “The health and safety of New Mexico’s hunters, anglers, outdoor recreationists, small communities and healthcare workers is our top priority,” said Director Mike Sloane. “We cannot ignore the crowds that have begun gathering at these popular fishing [...]

For public safety, Department closes Monastery Lake and Seven Springs Brood Pond

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, APRIL 5, 2020: For public safety, Department closes Monastery Lake and Seven Springs Brood Pond SANTA FE – To promote public safety, the Department at sunset Sunday, April 5, 2020, will close Monastery Lake Open Gate property near the Village of Pecos and Seven Springs Brood Pond located at Seven Springs Hatchery in the Jemez Mountains. Social distancing is a challenge for everyone who enjoys being outdoors, but this is the time for all New Mexicans to pull together for the overall health of all of our citizens and stay home. These closures are necessary to protect our healthcare workers and our small communities. “We must all do our part to flatten the curve and protect all New Mexicans” said Director Mike Sloane of the closures. The [...]

News Releases for 2019

Donate part of your state tax refund to help wildlife

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, MAR. 18, 2019: Donate part of your state tax refund to help wildlife SANTA FE – Want to help wildlife in need of conservation? It’s as easy as filling out a line on your state tax return to donate some of your tax refund to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Share with Wildlife program. Since its inception in 1981, the Share with Wildlife program has funded many projects and organizations. A long-term recipient of funds is the New Mexico Wildlife Center, a nonprofit in Española where sick and injured animals receive veterinary care, treatment and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild. The program also funds research, especially on species lacking information needed in order for species conservation and management efforts to proceed. [...]

Deadline is Wednesday to apply for big-game hunting licenses

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, MAR. 15, 2019: Deadline is Wednesday to apply for big-game hunting licenses SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is reminding hunters that Wednesday, March 20, is the deadline to apply for deer, elk, pronghorn, oryx, ibex, bighorn sheep, javelina and Barbary sheep licenses. The department expects more than 200,000 applicants for about 60,000 licenses. Hunters must complete their applications before 5 p.m. MDT March 20. All applicants must create an online account prior to applying. Here’s how to apply: Online: Applicants can access or create accounts via the “Customer Login” link on the department website. From their account, applicants will select “Draw Hunt Applications” in the main menu and then will be prompted through license and application choices. By phone: Hunters without [...]

Citizen Advisory Committees to meet to recommend Habitat Stamp 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, MAR. 15, 2019: Citizen Advisory Committees to meet to recommend Habitat Stamp projects SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled statewide Habitat Stamp Program Citizens Advisory Committee meetings for 2019. Citizen advisors will prioritize Habitat Stamp-funded projects for 2020 and 2021. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend the following regional Citizen Advisory Committee meetings: Northwest: 12:30 p.m. April 15, Bureau of Land Management, Farmington Field Office, 6251 College Blvd., Suite A., Farmington. Central: 9:30 a.m. April 17, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Northwest Area Office, 7816 Alamo Road NW, Albuquerque. Northeast: 9:30 a.m. April 19, Santa Fe National Forest, Supervisor’s Office, 11 Forest Lane, Santa Fe. Southwest: 9:30 a.m. April 22, Gila National Forest, Supervisor’s Office, 3005 [...]

Second Case of Rabies Confirmed in a Fox in San Miguel County

New Mexico Department of Health Media Contact, Paul Rhien: (505) 470-2290 paul.rhien@state.nm.us 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 - March 6, 2019 Second Case of Rabies Confirmed in a Fox in San Miguel County SANTA FE, NM – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) and New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (DGF) announced today that a case of rabies was laboratory confirmed on March 1 in a fox that was seen to be acting abnormally in San Miguel County. It had been previously announced that another rabid fox was identified in that county on January 28. Pet and livestock owners should ensure that their dogs, cats, horses and other livestock get vaccinated against rabies. No pet food or garbage should be left outside. Pets should be leashed while being walked outside. [...]

Gallup conservation officer named Officer of the Year by Shikar-Safari Club

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, MAR. 5, 2019: Gallup conservation officer named Officer of the Year by Shikar-Safari Club SANTA FE – Shikar-Safari Club International has named New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Corporal Storm Usrey the 2018 Wildlife Officer of the Year. This highly prestigious award is given annually to a state officer whose efforts show outstanding performance and achievement among sworn conservation law enforcement personnel. “In a field as demanding as wildlife law enforcement, I can say with certainty, Officer Storm Usery lives and breathes the conservation officer concept,” said his supervisor, Sergeant Jeremy Smith. “He is second to none in customer service and the most professional officer I have worked with. Storm embodies professionalism and kindness beyond the duties of the job. His resume of good [...]

News Releases for 2018

Special hunter education camp offered at Camp Wehinahpay near Sacramento

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, July 6, 2018: Special hunter education camp offered at Camp Wehinahpay near Sacramento SACRAMENTO – 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 for free. The camp is open to youths ages 10 to 17 who are accompanied by a registered adult. It will be conducted the weekend of Aug. 3-5, at the beautiful Camp Wehinahpay Boy Scout Camp in the Sacramento Mountains east of Alamogordo. Participants are responsible for their own camping gear, but meals from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch will be provided. Registration for this camp opportunity opens July 9. Participants must complete and return the registration form available at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter-education/ by noon, July 16, [...]

Native fish restoration activity planned for Whitewater Creek

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 3, 2018: Native fish restoration activity planned for Whitewater Creek SANTA FE – Native Gila trout restoration efforts on Whitewater Creek are rescheduled for July 10-11, 2018. Due to water conditions the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish was unable to implement the project as previously scheduled. As part of the Whitewater Creek Native Fish Restoration Project, the department will remove non-native trout from Whitewater Creek to allow restoration of Gila trout to its native range. This portion of the project starts at the Gila National Forest boundary below the Catwalk National Recreation Trail parking area and continues upstream approximately 2 miles to the intersection with Gold Dust Trail (Forest Trail #41). The department will apply CFT Legumin®, 5 percent rotenone and Prentox® Prenfish Toxicant [...]

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish continues stocking waters with catchable fish

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 28, 2018: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish continues stocking waters with catchable fish SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will continue to stock catchable fish in open waters, despite the long hot days and forest closures. As forest closures across northern New Mexico continue, fish that were originally planned to be stocked in waters within the boundaries of closed forests will be rerouted to nearby waters. “Regardless of the closures, the fish we are producing need to be stocked,” Assistant Chief of Fisheries Kirk Patten said. “Locations such as Eagle Nest Lake, Heron Lake, San Juan River, Rio Grande near Pilar and Rio Chama below El Vado will receive higher than normal numbers making fishing in these waters even [...]

Youth encouragement elk hunting licenses go on sale July 11

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 27, 2018: Youth encouragement elk hunting licenses go on sale July 11 SANTA FE – More than 1,800 youth, antlerless elk licenses will go on sale through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s Online License System at 10 a.m. MDT July 11. The sale is designed to encourage youth hunting and includes almost 1,500 licenses for hunters using any legal weapon and 390 licenses for hunters using a muzzleloader 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 N.M. resident youths who have applied in the current license year [...]

Game Commission properties that adjoin the Carson National Forest closed to access

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 27, 2018: Game Commission properties that adjoin the Carson National Forest closed to access SANTA FE – Due to drought and extreme fire danger, State Game Commission properties adjacent to the Carson National Forest, including the north and south Colin Neblett, Elliott Barker, Urraca, Rio de los Pinos Wildlife Management Areas and the campground and day use areas along NM 515 leading to the Red River Fish Hatchery will be closed to all public access beginning today. The closure will coincide with closures on the Carson National Forest announced this week by the U.S. Forest Service. The closure order prohibits all public access and recreational activities on those properties. Campgrounds, parking areas, trails and trailheads will be closed to the general public. Department of Game and [...]

News Releases for 2017

Public urged to catch fish in the Santa Fe River before it goes dry

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, June 30, 2017: Public urged to catch fish in the Santa Fe River before it goes dry SANTA FE – An emergency salvage order allowing the public to harvest an unlimited amount of fish by any means from the Santa Fe River within the city limits from July 1 through July 3 has been issued. The salvage order was requested by the city of Santa Fe as water flowing into the riverbed from upstream reservoirs will be insufficient to sustain fish. The salvage order will allow anglers to remove trout from the Santa Fe River before it runs dry. The department had stocked hundreds of trout in the river for a June 17 children’s fishing derby. Anglers caught most of those fish, but some may remain in [...]

Be bear aware during hot July 4 holidays

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, JUNE 29, 2017: Be bear aware during hot July 4 holidays SANTA FE – Many people will be headed outdoors for a long holiday this weekend, and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is reminding everyone to be aware of the greater chance of encountering bears and other native wildlife. Bears have become more active recently as hot weather forces them to work harder and roam farther to find food and water, said Rick Winslow, the department’s bear and cougar biologist. More young bears also are setting out on their own this summer following three years of good precipitation and high bear reproduction, Winslow said. Residents of wildland-urban interface areas such as the foothills of Santa Fe and Albuquerque or rural portions of [...]

Officers seize 17 illegal game animal heads during multiple search warrants in Farmington

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Ross Morgan: (505) 222-4707 ross.morgan@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, June 21, 2017: Officers seize 17 illegal game animal heads during multiple search warrants in Farmington FARMINGTON – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish officers, with assistance from the New Mexico State Police and San Juan County Sheriff’s office, seized 17 illegal game animal heads during multiple search warrants throughout the Farmington area on Tuesday. The investigation into a Farmington man, who is facing multiple charges, originated in early 2017 from an investigation by Department of Game and Fish Officer Shana Burkhardt after trail camera pictures placed on private land revealed what appeared to be illegal activity. It is illegal in the state of New Mexico to kill any game animal out of season and without a proper and valid hunting license. It is also illegal [...]

Youth encouragement elk hunting licenses for sale

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, JUNE 20, 2017: Youth encouragement elk hunting licenses for sale SANTA FE – Almost 1,900 youth, antlerless elk licenses will go on sale through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s Online License System at 10 a.m. July 5. The sale is designed to encourage youth hunting and includes almost 1,500 licenses for hunters using any legal weapon and 390 licenses for hunters using a muzzleloader 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 N.M. resident youths who have applied in the current license year for one or more draw hunts [...]

Buy Dad a license and take him fishing for Fathers Day

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, JUNE 15, 2017: Buy Dad a license and take him fishing for Fathers Day SANTA FE – Instead of breakfast in bed this Fathers Day why not buy dad a license and take him fishing. “I can’t think of a better gift for Father’s Day,” says Alexandra Sandoval, director of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. “Who wouldn’t want to spend a day outdoors fishing New Mexico’s waters?” The fishing season began April 1 and angling conditions statewide couldn’t be better so why not visit the department’s website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us, call the department’s Information Center, (888) 248-6866 or stop by a license vendor today and buy dad a license. To find a good place to fish visit the fishing section of the department’s website and consult [...]

News Releases for 2016

Revised State Wildlife Action Plan available soon

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact: Matt Wunder (505) 476-8118 matthew.wunder@state.nm.us Media contact: Karl Moffatt (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Aug. 1, 2016: Revised State Wildlife Action Plan available soon SANTA FE – A revised draft of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish State Wildlife Action Plan will be available for public review and comment beginning Aug. 2. The document serves as the blueprint for planning and implementation of the department’s wildlife and habitat conservation initiatives over the next 10 years. It can be viewed and downloaded from the department website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us/conservation/state-wildlife-action-plan. A printed version of the plan can be obtained by contacting Matt Wunder of the department’s Ecological and Environmental Planning Division, (505) 476-8118 or matthew.wunder@state.nm.us. Comments about the plan can be submitted to the department by email, DGF-comments.swap@state.nm.us or by regular mail: Matt Wunder Ecological and Environmental PIanning Division New Mexico Department [...]

Game and Fish, archery coordinator, honored by NASP

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, July 28, 2016: Game and Fish, archery coordinator, honored by NASP SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and its archery coordinator, Brian Guzman, once again have been honored for the state’s National Archery in Schools Program. July 27, Guzman and the department received the Gold Medal Award for the nation’s highest percentage increase in school participation, and another award for surpassing the 100-school mark at the program’s coordinators conference in Lexington, Ky. In April, Guzman received the Meeting Hero Award from the Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau for bringing business into the community when Game and Fish hosted the New Mexico State Championship Tournament at the Albuquerque Convention Center. The National Archery in Schools Program began in 2002 in Kentucky and New [...]

Cloudcroft homeowner kills bear attacking dogs

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, JULY 23, 2016: Cloudcroft homeowner kills bear attacking dogs CLOUDCROFT – A man shot and killed a bear after it attacked two of his dogs outside his home Thursday. The adult female bear had two cubs which were captured at the scene and placed in the care of Dr. Kathleen Ramsay, an Española area veterinarian specializing in rehabilitating sick and injured wildlife. The incident occurred when the man’s wife heard her two small dogs barking and went outside to discover two cubs on her patio, said New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Conservation Officer Marcelino Peralta. The startled cubs bawled out for their mother who then came running around the corner. The woman fled into her house, but her two small dogs slipped out the open [...]

Citizen advisors needed for Habitat Stamp Program

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact:Reuben Teran (505) 476-8130 ReubenS.Teran@state.nm.us Media contact: Karl Moffatt: (505) 476-8007 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, July 22, 2016: Citizen advisors needed for Habitat Stamp Program SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is seeking individuals to serve as volunteer citizen advisors to the Habitat Stamp Program. Advisors review and provide guidance to the department about proposed projects, planning documents and program direction. Advisors are appointed by the New Mexico Game Commission to serve on one of five committees around the state. Committees are composed of seven members. Members are selected to represent sporting and nonsporting conservation and public-land grazing permittee interests. Advisors serve three-year terms. The terms of current members expire Dec. 31. Those who intend to hunt, fish or trap on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management must purchase a $5.00 [...]

Game and Fish officers and inspectors busy over July 4 weekend

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, July 7, 2016: Game and Fish officers and inspectors busy over July 4 weekend SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish worked lakes and streams in an effort to help the public stay safe over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Department officers made over 4,100 contacts with the public statewide and issued over 250 citations, including 161 for fishing without a license and another 121 for off-highway vehicle violations. Department inspectors, partners and contractors also checked about 2,500 watercraft for aquatic invasive species and decontaminated 21 vessels at numerous lakes around the state over the holiday. “We appreciate the boating public’s patience and cooperation in this continuing effort to keep our state’s waters free of aquatic invasive species such as zebra and [...]

News Releases for 2015

Aerial Survey Shows Lesser Prairie Chicken Population Increased 25 Percent From 2014 To 2015 Lesser Prairie Chicken

July 1, 2015 Media Contact: Bill Van Pelt, WAFWA Grassland Coordinator, bill.vanpelt@wafwa.org, (602) 717-5066 AERIAL SURVEY SHOWS LESSER PRAIRIE CHICKEN POPULATION INCREASED 25 PERCENT FROM 2014 TO 2015 LESSER PRAIRIE CHICKEN An abundance of spring rainfall, along with ongoing efforts associated with the Lesser Prairie Chicken Range-wide Conservation Plan, has helped increase the lesser prairie chicken’s population approximately 25 percent from 2014 to 2015, according to results from a recent range-wide aerial survey. Increases were observed in three of four of the bird’s ecoregions across five states – Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. The Sand Sage Prairie Region of southeast Colorado showed the biggest gain – approximately 75 percent from a year ago. The Mixed Grass Prairie Region of the northeast Panhandle of Texas, northwest Oklahoma and south central Kansas saw an approximately 30 percent increase, and the Shortgrass Prairie Region of northwest Kansas population grew [...]

Deming bear relocated to Gila Wilderness

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Jeremy Lane, (575) 532-2106 Public contact: Customer Service (888) 248-6866 Jeremy.lane@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 30, 2015: DEMING BEAR RELOCATED TO GILA WILDERNESS DEMING – Department of Game and Fish officers captured a young bear found eating trash on the front porch of a home near Deming on Monday and released it, unharmed, into the Gila Wilderness. Officers set up a culvert trap to catch the bear after residents complained of it roaming the neighborhood off Butterfield Trail north of Deming over the weekend. Residents reported the bear was still in the neighborhood Monday morning. Conservation officers found the bear sitting on the porch of a home rummaging through trash. The young male bear was shot with a tranquilizer dart and taken away after falling asleep. “This is a good reminder to everyone that no matter where you live in New [...]

Survey indicates fishing even better in New Mexico

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: Customer service (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 25, 2015: SURVEY INDICATES FISHING EVEN BETTER IN NEW MEXICO SANTA FE – The number of satisfied anglers in New Mexico grew by 10 percent in 2015 and now accounts for more than 72 percent of those surveyed. “This is a real tribute to all the hard work done by our department to make New Mexico one of the best places to fish in the West,” said Mike Sloane, Chief of Fisheries for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. The latest annual survey, conducted by Davis Innovations of Santa Fe, indicated that the average angler in New Mexico fished about 13 days during the last year, with the majority seeking trout. The survey is available online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Women accounted for about 20 percent [...]

Plenty of youth elk hunting licenses for sale

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: Customer service (888) 248-6866 karl.moffatt@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, June 23, 2015: PLENTY OF YOUTH ELK HUNTING LICENSES FOR SALE SANTA FE – More than 1,900 youth, antlerless elk licenses will go on sale through the Department of Game and Fish Online License System at 10 a.m. July 8. The sale is designed to encourage youth hunting and includes almost 1,500 licenses for hunters using any legal weapon, and 450 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. To purchase a license, customers must to log in to their Online License System account at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. For the first 14 days of the sale, licenses will be available only [...]

Leftover deer, javelina licenses go on sale at 10 a.m. June 24

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, June 11, 2015: LEFTOVER DEER, JAVELINA LICENSES GO ON SALE AT 10 A.M. JUNE 24 SANTA FE – More than 1,607 deer hunting licenses, 25 elk licenses and over 1,100 javelina licenses that were not allocated during the annual drawing for 2015-16 big-game hunting licenses will go on sale at 10 a.m. MDT June 24, only on the Department of Game and Fish website. New Mexico residents will get first shot at the licenses during the first-come, first-served sale. License sales will be open only to residents during the first 24 hours after they become available. The sale will be opened to everyone, regardless of residency, at 10 a.m. June 25. To be eligible to buy a leftover license, hunters are reminded that they must previously have purchased either [...]

News Releases for 2014

Game Commission names Alexandra Sandoval Department of Game and Fish Director

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, MAY 15, 2014 GAME COMMISSION NAMES ALEXANDRA SANDOVAL DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH DIRECTOR ALBUQUERQUE – Alexandra Sandoval, a 20-year employee of the Department of Game and Fish, is the department’s new director, the State Game Commission announced Thursday. Sandoval, currently the department’s chief financial officer and Administrative Services Division chief, was selected among four finalists chosen after a nationwide search that began Jan. 24 and ended March 24. Sandoval began her career with the department in 1994 as a district wildlife officer (game warden) in Roswell and Clayton. She went on to become a wildlife specialist, federal grant manager, licensing supervisor and Administrative Services Division chief and chief financial officer. She holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from New Mexico Highlands University and a [...]

Department archaeologist wins prestigious Heritage Preservation Award

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, MAY 14, 2014 DEPARTMENT ARCHAEOLOGIST WINS PRESTIGIOUS HERITAGE PRESERVATION AWARD SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish archaeologist and tribal liaison was speechless after learning the Cultural Properties Review Committee had voted to present him with the 2014 Heritage Preservation Award for archaeological heritage. The award recognizes archaeologist Jack Young’s recent work at the Lake Roberts Wildlife Management Area north of Silver City. During required construction to make safety improvements on the Lake Roberts Dam, Young oversaw the protection, excavation and management of two archeological sites that dated back to about 700 to 1100 AD. Mr. David Siegel of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service nominated Young for his “exemplary stewardship of New Mexico’s archaeological heritage,” throughout his work at the Lake Roberts Wildlife [...]

New Mexico students set to release trout raised in the classroom

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, MAY 9, 2014 NEW MEXICO STUDENTS SET TO RELEASE TROUT RAISED IN THE CLASSROOM ALBUQUERQUE –Northern New Mexico students are readying to release hundreds of rainbow trout fingerlings into the wild. The students raised the fish from eggs as part of the Trout in the Classroom Program. The students care for the fish throughout the year and teachers use the fish to help teach biology, chemistry, math and writing. When the students release the fish they are about an inch and a half long. About a dozen New Mexico schools are involved, with additional schools joining each year. The department supplies fish eggs, a chiller unit to keep the water cold and a department biologist visits each class to teach them about the fish. The national [...]

New Mexico cares about bears

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 Photographs available upon request. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MAY 8, 2014 NEW MEXICO CARES ABOUT BEARS ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish reminds New Mexicans that spring is the time of year when bears emerge from their dens and begin looking for food after their long slumber. “Help care for bears this season by securing trash and removing bear attractants now,” said Rick Winslow, bear and cougar biologist for the department. “In the spring, bears eat naturally available foods such as insects and grass, but they can be lured into dangerous situations by human food and attractants.” Every year, black bears stray into neighborhoods, enticed by human food sources such as garbage and birdfeeders. Bears that associate humans with food can become aggressive and are a [...]

Hatchery visitors help support future wildlife managers

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, MAY 5, 2014 HATCHERY VISITORS HELP SUPPORT FUTURE WILDLIFE MANAGERS LAS CRUCES – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish announced five New Mexico State University students as recipients of its annual department scholarships. The department gives the awards to promote and encourage future wildlife managers in New Mexico. Students must be enrolled in the department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University to be eligible. “The department continues to fulfill its mission to conserve, regulate and protect the state’s wildlife for generations to come by continuing to grow these endowed scholarships and awarding them to deserving students,” Interim Director R.J. Kirkpatrick said. Every year visitors to the department’s hatcheries help increase the endowed scholarships by buying fish feed pellets for [...]

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