News

News2023-03-24T16:47:08-06:00

NMDGF News

Recent news releases from the department are posted below. Scroll down and click the News Archive tab to view older releases. Find recent releases by subject (such as Enforcement or Education news) by visiting News under each section tab above.

Hunter Education Rule topic of public meeting

SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the Hunter Education Rule (19.31.11 NMAC), discussed at the State Game Commission meeting on Aug. 25, 2023. A hybrid meeting will be held on Sept. 28, 2023 at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Northwest Area Office at 7816 Alamo Road NW, Albuquerque, NM, from 6-7:30 p.m. To attend via Zoom, please register at:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_E7kBKc-QTtC0xflJDVmudQ Comments will be gathered at the time of meeting and can be submitted by email to DGF-HunterEducation-Rule@state.nm.us.

How are Rare Terrestrial Snails Faring?

Project Highlight: How are Rare Terrestrial Snails Faring? Mineral Creek mountainsnail. (Eric Wallace) How many rare snails can still be found in locations where they used to occur? Are there certain sources of disturbance likely to negatively impact these snails? These are some of the questions that Eric Wallace tried to answer during surveys carried out in very rugged, remote parts of southwestern New Mexico in 2020 and 2021. This work was completed in partnership with the Share with Wildlife program at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (Department). The geographic ranges of many of the terrestrial snails in New Mexico, especially those listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) in the State Wildlife Action Plan for New Mexico, are somewhat restricted with some species only being found in a single, isolated mountain range or even within a single canyon of a mountain range. [...]

Moose Captured in Downtown Santa Fe

SANTA FE – A bull moose was captured this morning by Department staff and City of Santa Fe Animal Services Officers near the intersection of Grant Avenue and Rosario Boulevard. The moose has been successfully relocated to suitable habitat in northern New Mexico. According to Colonel Tim Cimbal, the Department received a call from Animal Services at approximately 8:10 this morning reporting a moose near Fort Marcy Park in Santa Fe. Officers soon tracked the animal to the intersection of Grant Avenue and Rosario Boulevard and set up a perimeter to protect the safety of residents and pedestrians in this popular walking area. The moose had progressively moved closer to urban areas, exposing it to hazards like moving vehicles and fence entanglement. It also showed little fear of humans or pets, creating concern for resident safety. Moose regularly exhibit aggression towards humans and pets, especially bulls during the rut or [...]

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.

News Releases for 2021

Public meetings to discuss potential stocking of hybrid striped bass into Caballo Reservoir

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, NOV. 29, 2021: Public meetings to discuss potential stocking of hybrid striped bass into Caballo Reservoir SANTA FE – The Department is hosting two public meetings to discuss the potential stocking of hybrid striped bass. The Department is considering stocking hybrid striped bass into Caballo Reservoir to provide a new sportfishing opportunity. Hybrid striped bass are a popular sport fish in neighboring states. They grow rapidly and can attain weights in excess of 10 pounds. During the meetings, fisheries biologists will provide background information on the proposal and answer questions from attendees. The virtual meetings are scheduled for: Dec. 7, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. Register for the meeting here. Dec. 14, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. Register for the meeting here. Comments can be provided by mail: New [...]

New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board Meeting

New Mexico Department of Game and FishPublic contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027tristanna.bickford@dgf.nm.govFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, NOV. 19, 2021:New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board MeetingSANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting of the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Advisory Board for Dec. 8, 2021, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually on the OHV website.Those interested in participating and providing comments are encouraged to pre-register and attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board will meet in public session to hear updates on the following: OHV budget, general program, OHV education, OHV law enforcement and to hear public comment.The Department’s Off-Highway Vehicle Program has an annual budget of $795,100.00 funded by revenue generated from the Trail Safety Fund. The OHV Act required the creation of the Trail Safety Fund, which [...]

Public meetings to discuss proposed changes to the Revocations 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, NOV. 19, 2021: Public meetings to discuss proposed changes to the Revocations Rule SANTA FE – The Department is hosting two hybrid public meetings to discuss the proposed changes to the Revocation Rule (19.31.2 NMAC). Proposed changes include modifications to the point values, simplifying revocation timelines, streamlining the suspension process and allowing for video conference appearances by violators. The complete proposal can be found on the Department’s website. The hybrid meetings are scheduled for: Dec. 3, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Northwest Area Office at 7816 Alamo Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM. The meeting will also be available through Zoom. Dec. 13, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Southwest Area Office at 2715 [...]

Public Meeting: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Discuss Fish 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, NOV. 18, 2021: Public Meeting: Habitat Stamp Program Citizen Advisory Committee to Discuss Fish Projects SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting in order to allow the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) to the Habitat Stamp Program to discuss fish habitat restoration project opportunities. At this meeting, the Department will solicit CAC prioritization and guidance. Members of the public are invited to attend this virtual meeting in order to offer feedback and ask questions. The virtual meeting is scheduled for Nov. 29, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. Use this link to register for the meeting. Comments can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Habitat Stamp Program Manager, P.O. Box 25112, Santa Fe, NM 87504; or [...]

Game Commission to meet November 15

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, NOV. 10, 2021: Game Commission to meet November 15 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet at 9 a.m., Monday, November 15 in Albuquerque. The full agenda, location, attendee information and general information will be available on the Department of Game and Fish website before the meeting. Due to COVID concerns, masks are required. 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. More information, including how to join the meeting by phone, is available on the Department’s website. In addition, there will be a live webcast on the Department’s website. Webcast participants can listen to the meeting using a desktop computer [...]

News Releases for 2020

At Least Seven Mexican Wolf Pups Successfully Cross-Fostered into Wild Packs

Arizona Game and Fish Department Media contact, Tom Cadden: (623) 236-7392 tcadden@azgfd.gov New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Media contact, Aislinn Maestas: (505) 331-8027 aislinn_maestas@fws.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 17, 2020: At Least Seven Mexican Wolf Pups Successfully Cross-Fostered into Wild Packs Record number of cross-fostered pups captured and collared by field team The Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team (IFT) has successfully captured and radio-collared seven of this year’s cross-fostered pups, documenting record success for the program. Last spring, members of the IFT and the Mexican Wolf Species Survival Plan cross-fostered a total of 20 genetically diverse wolf pups from captive facilities into litters of wild wolf packs. As part of ongoing efforts to record survival of cross-fostered pups, the IFT reports the following:• One of two pups cross-fostered from the Phoenix Zoo to the Iron Creek [...]

Starvation, unexpected weather to blame in mass migratory songbird mortality

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, DEC. 4, 2020: Starvation, unexpected weather to blame in mass migratory songbird mortality SANTA FE –The U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center has analyzed representative samples of the migratory songbirds collected, cataloged and sent for analyses by New Mexico Department of Game and Fish biologists, in early September. The lab report indicates that the single abnormality shared by nearly all birds was body condition ranging from poor to severely emaciated. Kerry Mower, the Department’s wildlife disease specialist, said, “The laboratory results are very informative but did not identify a single definitive cause of mortality. However, they did find that nearly all birds were severally emaciated.” The single abnormality shared by nearly all birds was body condition ranging from poor to severely emaciated. These observations are evidence [...]

Call for applicants: Citizen advisors needed for 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, DEC. 1, 2020: Call for applicants: Citizen advisors needed for Habitat Stamp Program SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is accepting applications for volunteer citizen advisors to the Habitat Stamp Program. Advisors will serve on a Citizen Advisory Committee to the Habitat Stamp Program, and will review and prioritize proposed projects for annual funding. Advisors are expected to engage and encourage public participation and involvement in the program. They will also be expected to represent public interest and be engaged and informed with regard to wildlife and fish habitat conservation needs. The citizen advisors will be appointed at the January 15, 2021 Commission meeting, which will be held virtually. Those applying to serve will be evaluated upon: Familiarity with current wildlife conservation [...]

Applications Now Available for 2021-2022 Off-Highway Vehicle Grants

New Mexico Department of Game and FishPublic contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027tristanna.bickford@state.nm.usFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC 1, 2020:Applications Now Available for 2021-2022 Off-Highway Vehicle GrantsSANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is now accepting grant applications for Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) recreation projects and law enforcement patrols.Federal, state and local government agencies as well as not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to apply for grants to enhance safe recreational use or mitigate impacts of side-by-sides, ATVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles on public lands. Law enforcement agencies can apply for grants to conduct OHV patrols and enforce the provisions of the OHV Act (66-3-1001 NMSA).Funds for grants are user-generated revenues from OHV registrations, collected in the state’s Trail Safety Fund and administered by the Department. Grants will reimburse up to $15,000 for projects starting July 1, 2021, with final invoices due no later than June 15, 2022.Grant [...]

New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board Meeting

New Mexico Department of Game and FishPublic contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027tristanna.bickford@state.nm.usFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, NOV. 25, 2020:New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board MeetingSANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting of the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Advisory Board for Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held virtually on the OHV website.Those interested in participating and providing comments are encouraged to pre-register and attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board will meet in public session to hear the following: OHV budget update, general program update, OHV education update, OHV law enforcement update and public comment.The Department’s Off-Highway Vehicle Program has an annual budget of $795,100.00 funded by revenue generated from the Trail Safety Fund. The OHV Act required the creation of the Trail Safety Fund, [...]

News Releases for 2019

Monastery Lake closed to fishing due to unsafe ice conditions

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, DEC 31, 2019: Monastery Lake closed to fishing due to unsafe ice conditions SANTA FE – Monastery Lake, near Pecos, has been closed to fishing until further notice due to unsafe ice conditions. Ice fishing is not allowed at the Benedictine Monastery lake leased through the Department’s Open Gate program. A thin layer of ice has formed on the lake prompting the closure. The lake will reopen when there is sufficient open areas of water available to allow fishing from the bank. Anglers can find good winter trout fishing in the Albuquerque area drains, at Tingley Beach and at other fishing waters throughout the state. Visit our website for more information on trout species, a list of convenient fishing locations and fish stocking reports. ###

Eagle Nest Lake State Park Open to Ice Fishing

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 State Parks Division Public contact, Christina Cordova: (505) 476-3363 christing.cordova@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC 31, 2019: Eagle Nest Lake State Park Open to Ice Fishing EAGLE NEST, NM – Eagle Nest Lake State Park is now open to ice fishing. According to the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resource Department’s State Parks Division and the Department of Game and Fish, current measurements indicate that ice thickness exceeds the minimum standards. The State Parks Division and the Department of Game and Fish jointly manage the lake and surrounding area. The surface of Eagle Nest Lake is now open to walk-in access or access by snowmobiles and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for ice fishing and other recreational activities on the ice. Side-by-side and Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) are prohibited. The only access [...]

Game Commission to meet November 21 in Roswell

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, NOV. 7, 2019: Game Commission to meet November 21 in Roswell SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Thursday, Nov. 21, in Roswell. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Roswell Game and Fish Office, located at 1615 West College Blvd. Agenda items include: Rule Making Hearing on the Final Bear and Cougar Rule Rule Making Hearing on the Final Hunting and Fishing License Application Rule The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. The New Mexico State Game Commission meeting will 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 [...]

Game Commission to meet October 25 in Farmington

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, OCT. 15, 2019: Game Commission to meet October 25 in Farmington SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Friday, October 25, in Farmington. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Civic Center Exhibition Hall, located at 200 West Arrington Street, in Farmington. Agenda items include: Presentation on Recovering America’s Wildlife Act Fiscal Year 2019 Depredation and Nuisance Abatement Rule Update on the Mexican Gray Wolf program The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. The New Mexico State Game Commission meeting will 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 [...]

Furbearer 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 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 1, 2019: Furbearer rule changes topic of public meetings SANTA FE - The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the furbearer rule. To gather public comments, four public meetings will be conducted: Raton: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 215 York Canyon Rd, Raton. Roswell: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 1615 West College Boulevard, Roswell. Las Cruces: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 2715 Northrise Drive, Las Cruces. Albuquerque: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at the Department of Game and Fish office, 7816 Alamo Rd NW, Albuquerque. The proposals [...]

News Releases for 2018

New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board 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, DEC. 3, 2018 New Mexico Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Advisory Board Meeting ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has scheduled a public meeting of the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Advisory Board for Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018. Information regarding the OHV program’s budget, education and law enforcement efforts will be presented. The Advisory Board will also establish meeting dates for next year. The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s Northwest Regional Office located at 7816 Alamo Road NW, in Albuquerque. Information on the advisory board can be found on the department’s website. ###

Director to hear public comments on trapping 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, NOV. 16, 2018: Director to hear public comments on trapping rule ALBUQUERQUE – The Director of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will hold a listening session to hear public comments on proposed changes to the furbearer rule. Proposed changes include mandatory trapper education, increasing set-back requirements, allowance for closure of areas to trapping, signage and further clarifying the definition of a trail. The listening session will be conducted 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 27 at the department’s Northwest Regional Office, 7816 Alamo Road NW in Albuquerque. Comments can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Furbearer Rule Development, P.O. Box 25112, Santa Fe, NM 87504; by email, ispa@state.nm.us, or in person at the meeting. ###

Game Commission to meet Nov. 30 in Roswell

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, Nov. 15, 2018: Game Commission to meet Nov. 30 in Roswell SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Friday, Nov. 30, in Roswell to take final action on amendments to the private land elk license allocation system, hunting and fishing manner and method, deer, elk and the hunting and fishing license and application rules. The meeting will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Roswell Convention and Civic Center Exhibit Hall, located at 912 N. Main Street. Other agenda items include: Special hunt draw deadlines for 2019 – 2020 Presentation on the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s 2019 Mexican Gray Wolf Translocation Plan Subsequent discussions on the trapping and furbearer rule The full agenda and other information are available [...]

Game Commission to meet Nov. 8 in Albuquerque

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, OCT. 24, 2018: Game Commission to meet Nov. 8 in Albuquerque SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission has scheduled a special meeting Thursday, Nov. 8, in Albuquerque to take final action on applications for landowner certification of non-navigable waters The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s new Northwest Regional Office located at 7816 Alamo Road NW, in Albuquerque. The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. Copies of the applications and the Director’s recommendations can be found on the website. The State Game Commission is composed of seven members who represent the state’s diverse interests in wildlife-associated recreation and conservation. Members are appointed by [...]

Late-season archery elk licenses available Oct. 31

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, OCT. 18: Late-season archery elk licenses available Oct. 31 SANTA FE – 275 first-come, first-served late season bull elk archery hunting licenses will go on sale at 10 a.m. Oct. 31. The licenses will be available on the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website. Available licenses include: Game Management Unit 12, Nov. 17-21, 25 licenses; Unit 34, Dec. 15-19, 200 licenses; and Unit 37, Dec. 1-5, 50 licenses. Special restrictions for elk harvested in Unit 34 can be found on page 85 of the current New Mexico Hunting Rules and Information booklet. The first 24 hours of the sale will only be available to residents, after which any remaining licenses will be available to everyone. Only hunters who did not hold a 2018-2019 elk licenses [...]

News Releases for 2017

Cimarron River fish safe to eat, tests show

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, DEC. 11, 2017: Cimarron River fish safe to eat, tests show EAGLE NEST – Recent tests of trout in the Cimarron River show that the fish are now safe to eat because no traces of pollution were found from a 2016 fuel spill. A 1.5-mile stretch of the river off N.M. 64 within the Colin Neblett Wildlife Area and Cimarron Canyon State Park was closed in December 2016 after a tanker truck overturned and spilled approximately 1,100 gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel into the river. The area between mile marker 291 to the Perryville Fishing Access Area was reopened to angling in May 2017 after successful restoration efforts, but anglers were advised to eat no more than three meals of fish per month from the spill [...]

Information sought in unlawfully killed elk

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Clint Henson clint.henson@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 8, 2017: Information sought in unlawfully killed elk LAS VEGAS – Game and Fish conservation officers are seeking information regarding two elk calves that were illegally killed near Guadalupita. On Dec. 5, a conservation officer responded to County Road A-020 to a report of an injured elk. When the officer arrived, he found two elk calves that had been shot and left to waste. Evidence was collected and the investigation is ongoing. If you have information on this crime or any other wildlife crime, please call Operation Game Thief at (800) 432-4263. Reports also can be submitted online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Callers can remain anonymous and receive a $500 reward for each elk if charges are filed against a suspect. Remember, poachers steal your wildlife. ###

Revised: Game Commission to meet Dec. 20 in Albuquerque

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, DEC. 8, 2017: Game Commission to meet Dec. 20 in Albuquerque ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet Wednesday, Dec. 20, in Albuquerque to consider a rule that would allow the commission and the Department of Game and Fish director to establish rules, requirements, definitions and regulations implementing the process for a landowner to be issued a certificate and signage by the director and the commission that recognizes that within the landowner’s private property is a segment of a non-navigable public water, whose riverbed or streambed or lakebed is closed to access without written permission from the landowner. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North, 5151 San Francisco Road NE, in Albuquerque. The commission also will hear a presentation [...]

Upcoming enhancements of San Juan River at Navajo Lake State Park

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, NOV. 28, 2017: Upcoming enhancements of San Juan River at Navajo Lake State Park Expect temporary closures of day-use areas FARMINGTON – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will begin a river enhancement project on Dec. 15 on the San Juan River at Navajo Lake State Park from Simon Point Day-Use Area downriver to the Crusher Hole Day-Use Area. Temporary closures of multiple day-use areas are expected until April 2018. The project will include a new boat takeout at Crusher Hole Day-Use Area. The Crusher Hole area will be closed to the public from Dec. 15, 2017, through March 1, 2018. There will be no access to the boat takeout at Crusher Hole while the new takeout is constructed. Bolack Day-Use Area will be closed [...]

Public urged to catch fish in Estancia Park Pond as water level drops

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, Nov. 1, 2017: Public urged to catch fish in Estancia Park Pond as water level drops SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish has issued an emergency salvage order allowing the public to harvest an unlimited amount of fish by any means through Nov. 10 from Estancia Park Pond. The salvage order was requested by the Town of Estancia as one of the town's wells that supplies the pond is currently out of service and fish soon may begin dying as the water level drops. Tackle regulations will be suspended during the salvage period that runs through 11:59 p.m. Nov. 10. The salvage order will allow anglers to use nets or other means to remove fish from the pond. Anglers ages 12 and older are [...]

News Releases for 2016

Tips sought in bighorn poaching case off N.M. 518 near Sipapu ski area

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, Dec. 28, 2016: Tips sought in bighorn poaching case off N.M. 518 near Sipapu ski area SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is requesting the public’s help in identifying suspects involved in the poaching of a bighorn sheep off N.M. 518 near Comales Campground on Dec. 22. A bighorn sheep was killed that morning sometime between 9:20 a.m. and noon on the hillside off the east side of the highway just above the pull off where a blue Adopt-a-Highway memorial sign dedicated to Sonny James Marquez stands. The pull-off is between mile markers 55 and 56 and just after the bridge crossing the Rio Del Pueblo while traveling north toward Penasco from the Sipapu ski area between Taos and Mora [...]

Farmington conservation officers recognized for service at Navajo Lake State Park

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, Dec. 28, 2016: Farmington conservation officers recognized for service at Navajo Lake State Park SANTA FE – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officers from the Farmington district received recognition for their assistance at Navajo Lake State Park last year. Conservation officers conducted joint patrols with state park rangers in search of alcohol impaired boaters, checked angler licenses and commercial guide equipment and assisted with crowd control throughout the year. “Their support went above and beyond what was expected and contributed to the overall success of Navajo Lake State Park last year,” said Christopher Smith, superintendent of Navajo Lake State Park. Sgt. Matt Anthony said the department’s five Farmington district officers spend a lot of time conducting law enforcement and public outreach efforts [...]

State Wildlife Action Plan approval results in release of federal funds

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, Dec. 16, 2016: State Wildlife Action Plan approval results in release of federal funds SANTA FE – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has provided $812,000 in State Wildlife Grant Program funds to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish following the New Mexico State Game Commission’s recent approval of a revised State Wildlife Action Plan. The commission approved the plan at its Nov. 17 meeting in Grants. It was then submitted to federal administrators resulting in the release of funds earmarked for the department. New Mexico’s State Wildlife Action Plan provides an inventory of species throughout the state in need of conservation, their habitats and any threats to them. It is used by federal officials to provide grants to states for projects beneficial to species in [...]

White-tailed ptarmigan recovery plan available for public review and comment

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, DEC. 7, 2016: White-tailed ptarmigan recovery plan available for public review and comment SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish recovery plan for the white-tailed ptarmigan is available for public review and comment. The plan is on the department website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. It also can be obtained by contacting John Bulger, the department’s recovery coordinator, (505) 476-8106 or john.bulger@state.nm.us. Comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. Dec. 20, 2016. The white-tailed ptarmigan is the smallest member of the grouse family and lives above timberline in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It is listed as endangered under the New Mexico Wildlife Conservation Act. The recovery plan outlines strategies to maintain viable populations of the species and its habitat within [...]

Public invited to Tres Piedras shooting range groundbreaking

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, DEC. 6, 2016: Public invited to Tres Piedras shooting range groundbreaking SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish invites the public to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for a public shooting range under construction at the department’s Tres Piedras Wildlife Management Area at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12. The shooting range is about 3.5 miles east of Tres Piedras off U.S. 64 and about 2 miles south of the highway. Signs will be posted for the ceremony. The 200-yard State Game Commission-owned primitive range will be surrounded by earthen berms and feature several concrete shooting stations. Some members of the State Game Commissioners may attend the ceremony but will not be formulating public policy, rules, regulations or taking any action on department-related business. Refreshments [...]

News Releases for 2015

Monastery Lake closed to fishing due to unsafe ice conditions

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, DEC.23, 2015: MONASTERY LAKE CLOSED TO FISHING DUE TO UNSAFE ICE CONDITIONS SANTA FE –Monastery Lake near Pecos has been closed to fishing until further notice due to unsafe ice conditions. Ice fishing is not allowed at the lake leased by the department from nearby Benedictine monastery for public fishing. A thin layer of ice has formed on the lake prompting the closure. “When there are sufficient open areas of water available to allow fishing from the bank we’ll reopen it,” said Mike Sloane, chief of fisheries for the Department of Game and Fish. Anglers can find good winter trout fishing in the Albuquerque area drains, at Tingley Beach and at other fishing waters in the southern part of the state. For a list of winter trout waters, maps [...]

Public comments sought on proposed changes to aquatic invasive species rules

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Karl Moffatt, (505) 476-8007 Public contact: James Dominguez, (505) 476-8163 james.dominguez@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 15, 2015: PUBLIC COMMENTS SOUGHT ON PROPOSED CHANGES TO AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES RULES SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comments on proposed rule changes to better protect the state from the spread of harmful aquatic invasive species. “We need to further protect our state’s water resources and delivery infrastructure from these destructive invasive species,” said Mike Sloane, chief of the department’s Fisheries Division. “These rule changes will help us address some gaps we’ve discovered in enforcement and compliance.” The proposed changes to Aquatic Invasive Species rules include requiring all out-of-state boat owners to pass an inspection before launching a watercraft in New Mexico. The proposed rules also would make it mandatory for all boaters to stop at aquatic invasive species [...]

Eagle Nest Lake temporarily closed to ice fishing

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Clint Henson, (575) 445-2311 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 clint.henson@state.nm.us New Mexico State Parks Division Christina Cordova, (505) 476-3363 christina.cordova@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 11, 2015: EAGLE NEST LAKE TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO ICE FISHING EAGLE NEST – Eagle Nest Lake is temporarily closed to ice-fishing due to recent warm weather and winds that have produced unsafe conditions, the Department of Game and Fish and New Mexico State Parks announced. There had been a good layer of ice on the lake, but recent warm weather caused some areas to melt resulting in open water. Ice conditions should improve soon, allowing for ice-fishing to resume. A minimum of 9 inches of solid ice is required for the lake to be considered safe for activities. Fishing is still allowed from the bank and camping is available at Eagle Nest Lake State Park, but the boat [...]

$3,000 in rewards offered in refuge elk poaching

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 476-8004 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 dan.williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 1, 2015: $3,000 IN REWARDS OFFERED IN REFUGE ELK POACHING LAS VEGAS, N.M. – The Department of Game and Fish and Las Vegas, N.M., area landowners, businesses and residents are offering $3,000 in rewards for information leading to the poachers who killed two bull elk and left them to rot at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge. “It is outrageous and unacceptable that someone would kill these animals and leave them to waste,” said Rob Larrañaga, refuge manager. “These criminals stole two prized elk that could have been harvested in a youth hunt being planned by the refuge.” The elk were discovered Nov. 20 in an area of the refuge also used by hikers, birders and photographers. Conservation officers determined that both elk had been [...]

Game Commission to meet Nov. 19 in Roswell

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, NOV. 5, 2015: GAME COMMISSION TO MEET NOV. 19 IN ROSWELL SANTA FE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet Nov. 19 in Roswell to consider numerous matters, including implementation of a new law granting New Mexico resident military veterans and active duty soldiers a 50-percent discount on licenses, permits, or stamp purchases. The meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015, at New Mexico Military Institute, Pearson Auditorium, 101 West College Blvd., Roswell. Other agenda items include: An update of ongoing lease negotiations with the State Land Office regarding continued hunting access on State Trust Lands. A report of results from recent fish population surveys at Bluewater Lake and discussion of possible future management plans. Final proposed amendments to the Fisheries Rule [...]

News Releases for 2014

Hunting Rules & Information booklet available on department’s new website

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 lance.cherry@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, DEC. 29, 2014: HUNTING RULES & INFORMATION BOOKLET AVAILABLE ON DEPARTMENT'S NEW WEBSITE SANTA FE – Rules and information about applying for licenses and hunting big-game, small game and turkeys in New Mexico are available now on the Department of Game and Fish’s redesigned website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The 2015-16 Hunting Rules and Information booklet includes all the information hunters need to apply for and purchase big-game and small-game hunting licenses and permits. Hunters are encouraged to review season dates, application deadlines and other information before applying for licenses or going afield. The department will begin accepting online applications for 2015-16 big-game and turkey licenses Jan. 7. Application deadlines are 5 p.m. Feb. 4 for special-permit bear and turkey hunts, and 5 p.m. March 18 for deer, elk, [...]

Study: N.M. hunters, anglers spend more than $613 million

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 lance.cherry@dgf.nm.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, NOV. 13, 2014 STUDY: N.M. HUNTERS, ANGLERS SPEND MORE THAN $613 MILLION HUNTING, FISHING CREATE NEARLY 8,000 JOBS SANTA FE – New Mexico’s hunters and anglers spend more than $613 million on their recreational activities and contribute another $51.4 million to the state’s economy in labor, income and taxes, according to a study conducted for the Department of Game and Fish. The study by Southwick Associates, specialists in fish and wildlife economics and statistics, was commissioned to determine the amount of participation and subsequent economic impacts hunters and anglers have on New Mexico overall and by county. “Hunting and fishing are among New Mexico’s most cherished traditions,” Governor Susana Martinez said. “This study clearly shows the tremendous value our wildlife resources bring to our state, creating nearly 8,000 jobs [...]

Late-season archery elk licenses available online October 29

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Contact: (888) 248-6866 ispa@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 21, 2014 LATE-SEASON ARCHERY ELK LICENSES AVAILABLE ONLINE OCT. 29 SANTA FE – Two hundred seventy-five trophy bull elk archery hunting licenses will go on sale Wednesday, Oct. 29, first-come, first-served, on the Department of Game and Fish website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The sale will begin at 10 a.m. Oct. 29 and will be open only to New Mexico residents for the first 24 hours. Any remaining licenses will be available to nonresidents beginning at 10 a.m. Oct. 30. Only hunters who did not hold a 2014-2015 elk license are eligible to purchase the late-season licenses. The bag limit for the late-season hunts is one bull elk with antlers that have at least six points on one side. Hunters are strongly advised to obtain an online customer account or review their existing account, user name and password [...]

Expect roadblocks statewide during hunting seasons

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 lance.cherry@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 14, 2014 EXPECT ROADBLOCKS STATEWIDE DURING HUNTING SEASONS SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish will conduct roadblocks throughout the state during hunting seasons to collect harvest data and to detect wildlife law violations. Hunting seasons are ongoing for deer, elk, pronghorns, bears and some other species as listed in the department’s Hunting Rules & Information booklets. At roadblocks, conservation officers also will check for compliance with the Off Highway Motor Vehicle Act and the Aquatic Invasive Species Control Act. Drivers of vehicles hauling wood products will be asked to produce documentation as required by the Forest Conservation Act. Department officers may be assisted by other law enforcement agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico State Police or county sheriff's [...]

Rio Grande cutthroat trout no longer an endangered species candidate

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 lance.cherry@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, OCT. 1, 2014 RIO GRANDE CUTTHROAT TROUT NO LONGER AN ENDANGERED SPECIES CANDIDATE SANTA FE –New Mexico’s state fish, the Rio Grande cutthroat trout, no longer is a candidate for listing under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Tuesday. Since 2008, aggressive conservation efforts by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and it’s partners have enhanced or restored pure-strain native cutthroats in 127 streams that are open to public fishing. Rio Grande cutthroats now occupy about 700 miles of stream habitat. After reviewing current scientific information about the cutthroat’s populations, genetic diversity and habitat conditions in its historic range in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado, the federal agency deemed that the fish is in no danger of extinction. The Rio Grande [...]

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