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

NMDGF News

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Leftover draw licenses on sale June 28

SANTA FE – A total of 564 deer licenses not issued during the 2023-2024 big-game draw will go on sale at 10 a.m. MDT June 28, through the Department’s Online License System. New Mexico residents will get first shot at the licenses for the first 24 hours of the first-come, first-served sale. If any licenses remain after the first 24 hours, the sale will be opened to nonresidents at 10 a.m. June 29. Important note for youth hunters: Because these are draw licenses, purchasing a license will render youth hunters ineligible to purchase a youth encouragement elk license for the first 14 days of the upcoming sale in July. To buy a leftover license, hunters must possess a 2023-2024 Game Hunting or Game Hunting and Fishing license. Hunters may buy the Game Hunting license, the Habitat Stamp and the Habitat Management Access Validation by logging into their account and clicking the Over-The-Counter (OTC) [...]

Wildlife law violation checkpoints start for hunting, fishing seasons

The Department of Game and Fish will conduct checkpoints throughout the state this summer to collect biological data and to detect wildlife law violations. As a result, the public may encounter minor delays. 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 offices. As a reminder, the 2023-2024 hunting and fishing season began April 1. All hunters and anglers are required to purchase a new license before hunting and fishing. Guides and outfitters are also reminded that new registration is required. Please report any wildlife crime or suspected crime that you may observe while enjoying New Mexico’s great outdoors. To report a wildlife crime, please call Operation Game Thief toll free at 1-800-432-GAME (4263). Callers can remain anonymous and earn cash rewards for information leading to charges being filed. Violations also [...]

Special military and veteran oryx and pronghorn hunts opening June 14

SANTA FE – Three special military and veteran drawing opportunities for oryx and pronghorn will open today, June 14. Oryx hunts for injured military service members on White Sands Missile Range: Injured military service members can apply online starting June 14 for one of up to 10 special oryx authorizations for hunts on White Sands Missile Range. Applicants must be veterans of the U.S. military with a disability rating of 50 percent or greater in accordance with U.S. Veteran’s Administration guidelines for receiving disabled veteran benefits. Significantly injured, active-duty military members who do not have a VA disability rating also may apply. Pronghorn hunts for resident Purple Heart recipients on Melrose Air Force Base: Resident Purple Heart recipients are eligible to apply for one of up to five special pronghorn authorizations on Melrose Air Force Base. Pronghorn hunts for New Mexico active-duty military on Melrose Air Force Base: Active-duty military [...]

Governor’s Special Hunt Auction Online for 2023

New Mexico – Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, pursuant to 2007 legislation, has authorized the auctioning of eight big-game hunts to benefit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF). NMDGF has partnered with New Mexico Ducks Unlimited (DU) to offer the New Mexico Governor’s Special Hunt Auction 2023 Online. Funds from the public auction support the Game Protection Fund and are used solely for NMDGF mission-related projects and programs. The eight packages offered this year are up for auction now and will close on June 30 at 8 p.m. The hunts this year include: Exotics Hunt Package including an either-sex oryx license and either-sex barbary sheep license. Coues deer license in Game Management Units (GMUs) 23, 24, 26, or 27. Elk license in GMUs 34 or 36. Elk license in GMUs 16 A-E. Elk license in GMU 55A Valle Vidal. Mule deer license in GMU 2. Mule deer license in [...]

News Releases for 2021

Remember to be aware of wild animals along the Bosque

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, FEB 24, 2021: Remember to be aware of wild animals along the Bosque SANTA FE – Due to an increase in recent sightings of coyotes by hikers along the Bosque in the Albuquerque metro area, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish reminds everyone to be mindful and prepared for potential encounters with wild animals. The Bosque along the Rio Grande is an essential corridor for wild animals moving through the Albuquerque metro area. This area provides easy food sources, water, shelter and an escape from pressures that wild animals have as they travel. There are also wild animals that will live their whole life in the Bosque. The corridor, surrounded by houses, schools, shopping centers and restaurants, also offers people and families an escape from [...]

State Game Commission expands agreement with State Land Office

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, JAN 26, 2021: State Game Commission expands agreement with State Land Office SANTA FE – At the Jan. 15, 2021, State Game Commission Meeting, a unanimous vote finalized a four-year agreement between the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the New Mexico State Land Office. The easement will allow hunters, anglers and trappers to access state trust lands in exchange for an annual payment of $800,000 and $200,000 of habitat improvement projects on state trust land. “This is a wonderful agreement that increases opportunities for hunters, anglers and outdoor recreationists,” said State Game Commission chairwoman Sharon Salazar Hickey. “The Department of Game and Fish and the State Land Office worked together, to find balance for the benefit of all New Mexicans.” The Department of Game [...]

Game Commission to meet virtually Jan. 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, Jan. 9, 2020: Game Commission to meet virtually Jan. 15 SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet virtually Friday, Jan. 15, at 9 a.m. The full agenda and other information will be available on the Department of Game and Fish website before the meeting. If you are interested in participating and providing comments, you are encouraged to pre-register to attend the meeting on the Zoom Webinar platform. More information, including how to join the meeting by phone, is available on the Department’s website. The New Mexico State Game Commission meeting will also be available to view via a live webcast on the Department’s website. Webcast participants can listen to the meeting using a desktop computer or mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. [...]

News Releases for 2020

Project proposals sought for Share with Wildlife funding

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 27, 2020: Project proposals sought for Share with Wildlife funding SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s Share with Wildlife program is now accepting proposals for projects that would start in 2021. The Share with Wildlife program funds projects up to $50,000 in four categories: habitat enhancement, biological and ecological research studies, wildlife rehabilitation and wildlife education. Topics of particular interest to the Department are projects that would start between Jan. 15, 2021 and May 31, 2021. Details about the proposal format are listed in the Call For Project Information for fiscal year 2021 available on the Share with Wildlife website, under the Applications-Reports tab. Offerors should make sure to use the updated Share with Wildlife Proposal Cover Sheet posted on the [...]

Hunt season closure social media posts are hoax

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 26, 2020: Hunt season closure social media posts are hoax Department working hard to process 2020-2021 big-game draw SANTA FE – Despite false rumors floating around on social media, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish reassures New Mexico hunters the results of the 2020-2021 big-game draw will be released by April 29, 2020, if not earlier. Hunt season closure social media posts are hoax. Over the past week, there have been prank posts on social media stating that the 2020-2021 hunting season in New Mexico has been canceled. This is false, and the Department recommends not clicking on the links provided in this or any other hoax. Director Michael Sloane stated “the Department is working diligently to audit the draw and provide [...]

Migratory Game Bird 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, MARCH 25, 2020: Migratory Game Bird rule changes topic of public meetings SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the Migratory Game Bird rule. The Department is proposing small changes in migratory game bird hunting, including incorporating federal recommendations on migratory bird seasons and adjusting season dates for calendar shifts. To gather public comments, one public meeting will be conducted via conference call. The conference call will occur March 31 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call 800-747-5150, and then use access code 4499417. Presentation slides will be posted to the Department’s website, prior to the meeting so attendees can follow along. If you do not have access to the website to view the presentation, please contact DGF-Waterfowl@state.nm.us [...]

Courts Order Department To Release Customer Names, Email, Addresses Today

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 19, 2020: Courts Order Department To Release Customer Names, Email, Addresses Today SANTA FE – A First Judicial District Court judge has ordered the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to turn over the names and addresses of all successful big-game applicants for the years 2015 through April 23, 2019 to Los Alamos County resident James Whitehead. Additionally, the New Mexico Court of Appeals ordered the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to turn over the email addresses of individuals who applied for state hunting licenses for the years 2015 through 2016 to former Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn. Both decisions conclude that information collected from the public in connection with the administration of its public duties falls within the meaning of public records and [...]

Services available for NM’s hunters, anglers and outdoor recreationalists

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, MARCH 18:Services available for NM’s hunters, anglers and outdoor recreationalistsSANTA FE – It’s important for agencies like the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to do their part to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) and you can help too.At this time the Department encourages hunters and anglers to utilize the many online and phone services available.Customers seeking general information including; license sales and harvest reporting can still reach the Department by phone at 505-476-8000 or toll-free at 1-888-248-6866. They can reach the Department by email, ispa@dgf.nm.gov or visit online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Hunting and fishing licenses can be purchased online at onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us.The New Mexico Game and Fish Department offers educational activities for youth and families. New Mexico wildlife and wildlife management lessons can be downloaded online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/conservation-education/discover-new-mexico.Depredation [...]

News Releases for 2019

Department seeking next generation of conservation officers

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MARCH 1, 2019: Department seeking next generation of conservation officers SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking qualified men and women to join the next generation of conservation officers, who protect and conserve New Mexico’s wildlife. The department is currently accepting applications for conservation officer trainees with a starting pay of $17.03 an hour. Applications for this position will be accepted until April 16, 2019. Physical assessments and interviews will take place May 11, 2019 in Santa Fe. Candidates who advance past the interviews may be required to stay in Santa Fe until May 17, 2019 for further testing. Prior law enforcement experience is not required. Successful applicants must either possess a qualifying bachelor’s degree or obtain a qualifying degree and provide documentation [...]

Off-Highway Vehicle grant applications now available

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, FEB. 14, 2019: Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Applications Now Available SANTA FE – Federal, state and local government agencies as well as not-for-profit organizations can apply for Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) grants to enhance recreational use 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). Projects promoting OHV safety or mitigating impacts from OHV use may also qualify for grants. Funds for these grants are user-generated revenues from OHV registrations, collected in the state’s Trail Safety Fund and administered by the department. Grant application forms and information can be downloaded from the OHV program website. Applications must be mailed and postmarked no later than Sunday, March 31 or [...]

Charges issued in illegal trapping case

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, FEB. 13, 2019: Charges issued in illegal trapping case SANTA FE – In one of New Mexico’s most recent high-profile trapping cases, a Chimayo man is facing multiple charges associated with running illegal trap lines that resulted in the unlawful harvest of multiple wildlife animals and the death of Roxy, a family dog. On Tuesday, Feb. 12, Marty Cordova, 42, was charged with 34 counts of illegal trapping activities. Charges include: Charges include: 5 counts of trapping within 25 yards of a road 10 counts of failure to properly mark traps 5 counts of failure to check traps every calendar day 14 counts of unlawful possession of a protected species Conservation officers served a search warrant on Cordova’s residence in January resulting in officers seizing snares and [...]

Hunters: Don’t forget to file your mandatory harvest report

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, FEB. 13, 2019: Hunters: Don't forget to file your mandatory harvest report SANTA FE – Mandatory harvest deadlines are fast approaching for hunters and trappers who held licenses for New Mexico’s 2018-19 seasons. The deadline to file a free report for hunters who held 2018-19 deer, elk, pronghorn or turkey licenses is midnight Feb. 15, 2019, After that date, an $8 late fee will apply. Hunters must report on or before the March 20 application deadline or their applications will be rejected from the big-game draws. The deadline to report for those who held 2018-19 Barbary sheep, javelina, oryx, ibex or trapping licenses is midnight April 7, 2019. The later harvest-reporting deadline allows license holders for those species to submit results after the seasons have closed. Hunters [...]

Outdoor Adventures Hunting and Fishing Show this weekend 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, FEB. 12, 2019: Outdoor Adventures Hunting and Fishing Show this weekend in Albuquerque SANTA FE – The annual New Mexico Outdoor Adventures Hunting and Fishing Show opens at noon Friday, Feb.15 and continues through Sunday, Feb. 17, in the Manuel Lujan Building at the state fairgrounds in Albuquerque. The event is bigger and better than ever with new exhibits and hands-on activities hosted by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. New this year will be a free 'catch and release' pond located in the red barn. Try your luck catching a tagged fish to win a prize sponsored by a vendor. At the start of each day’s show, the first 15 people to catch a tagged fish will win a prize from one of the [...]

News Releases for 2018

Mesilla Valley Bosque Property Free to Public Starting June 25, 2018

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003, lance.cherry@state.nm.us New Mexico State parks Division, Christina Cordova, (505) 476-3363, christina.cordova@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 25, 2018: Mesilla Valley Bosque Property Free to Public Starting June 25, 2018 MESILLA - Management and ownership of the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park property is transitioning from the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, State Parks Division, to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. As part of the transition, beginning June 25, 2018, general entrance to the property will be free! The transfer also allows the Department of Game & Fish to establish an educational and administrative hub in southern New Mexico. Other benefits include: Expanded education, outreach and wildlife viewing opportunities Increased outdoor classroom programs Increased partnerships with Friends and volunteers Increased educational facilities and meeting space Upgrades to trails An open house will be held Thursday, June 28, [...]

State Game Commission names candidates for next Game and Fish director

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 22, 2018: State Game Commission names candidates for next Game and Fish director SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission announced Thursday, the list of the five candidates for the director position of the Department of Game and Fish. The candidates are: Christopher Chadwick, employed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fisheries and wildlife biology. Michael Perry, employed by the New Mexico State Land Office. He holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management. Daryl Ratajczak, employed by the U.S. Forest Service. He holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental and forest biology. Matthias Sayer, employed by the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. He holds juris doctor and a bachelor’s degree in finance. Michael Sloane, employed [...]

Public comment sought for Clayton shooting range Environmental Assessment

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, DATE: JUNE 21, 2018 Public comment sought on draft Environmental Assessment for construction of a shooting range in Clayton CLAYTON – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the construction of the Stephen M. Bush Memorial Shooting Range in Clayton. The EA analyzes potential effects on physical, biological, and cultural resources and socioeconomic conditions that may result from the implementation of the project. The EA also incorporates other federal, state, and local environmental policies and regulations and is prepared in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Environmental Policy Act Handbook. The proposed range would include; a 50-yard pistol range, 50-yard small bore rifle range, 200-yard rifle range, a 90-yard archery range and [...]

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, JUNE 12, 2018: Native fish restoration activity planned for Whitewater Creek Santa Fe – Native Gila trout restoration efforts will continue in Whitewater Creek June 20-21, 2018. 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 two miles to the intersection with Gold Dust Trail (Forest Trail #41). The department will apply CFT Legumin®, 5 percent rotenone and Prentox® Prenfish Toxicant Powder™ to the stream to remove non-native salmonids. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that rotenone is highly effective for removal [...]

Leftover deer and javelina licenses go on sale June 27

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 11, 2018: Leftover deer and javelina licenses go on sale June 27 SANTA FE – 203 deer and 10 javelina hunting licenses that were not allocated during the annual 2018-19 big-game drawing will go on sale at 10 a.m. MDT on June 27, 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 for the first 24 hours. The sale will be opened to everyone, regardless of residency, at 10 a.m. on June 28. Important note for youth hunters: Because these are leftover draw licenses, purchasing a leftover deer license will render youth hunters ineligible to purchase a youth encouragement elk license during the [...]

News Releases for 2017

Game Commission to meet June 22 in Ruidoso

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 13, 2017: Game Commission to meet June 22 in Ruidoso SANTA FE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet June 22 in Mescalero to consider numerous matters, including approval of the department’s fiscal-year 2019 capital outlay request. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 22, 2017, at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Mescalero Room, 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero. Other agenda items include: Adoption of a new Upland Game Rule. Proposed changes to the Fisheries Rule. Adoption of a rule amendment to the Aquatic Invasive Species Rule. The full agenda, detailed agenda-item briefings and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. Details of proposed rules and opportunities to comment about them also are available on the website, [...]

Special hunting skills camp offered at Wedding Cake Ranch near Clayton

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 8, 2017: Special hunting skills camp offered at Wedding Cake Ranch near Clayton CLAYTON – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is partnering with First in the Field to offer a free hunting, fishing and outdoors skills camp where youths will receive hands-on training. The camp is open to youths ages 11 and older. The camp will be conducted June 22-25 at the Wedding Cake Ranch near Clayton. Meals and equipment are provided and participants will camp in tents at the ranch. Registration is underway. Participants must complete and return the registration form available at www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter-education/ by 5 p.m. June 17 to be eligible. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will learn how to safely handle and fire shotguns, .22 [...]

Special oryx hunts available for injured servicemen and women

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 8, 2017: Special oryx hunts available for injured servicemen and women SANTA FE -- Injured military service members can apply online beginning June 14 for an upcoming special drawing by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) to award three special oryx authorizations for hunts on White Sands Missile Range. Applicants must be active-duty or veterans of the U.S. military who have a disability rating of 50 percent or greater in accordance with U.S. Veteran’s Administration guidelines for receiving disabled veteran benefits. Significantly injured, active-duty military members also may apply and will need to submit supporting documentation to the department prior to the July 19 application deadline. Applicants (except NMDGF Disabled Veteran card holders) are required to provide proof of eligibility prior to the [...]

Leftover deer and javelina licenses go on sale June 21

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 6, 2017: Leftover deer and javelina licenses go on sale June 21 SANTA FE – Almost 350 deer hunting licenses and over 100 javelina licenses that were not allocated during the annual 2017-18 big-game drawing will go on sale at 10 a.m. MDT June 21, 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 for the first 24 hours. The sale will be opened to everyone, regardless of residency, at 10 a.m. June 22. Important note for youth hunters: Because these are leftover draw licenses, purchasing a leftover deer license will render youth hunters ineligible to purchase a youth encouragement elk license during [...]

Free fishing derby on the Santa Fe River this Saturday

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 1, 2017: Free fishing derby on the Santa Fe River this Saturday SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the City of Santa Fe are sponsoring a Kids’ Fishing Derby this Saturday on the Santa Fe River. The event is for children 11-years old and younger from 7 a.m. to noon at Santa Fe River Park from Don Gaspar Avenue upstream to the Old Santa Fe Trail. No license required and there will be prizes for successful anglers. The department will stock about 500 rainbow trout in the river for the event and staff will be available to provide information and instruction. Anyone who wishes to fish in that stretch of river can do so after noon, no license required as [...]

News Releases for 2016

Game wardens save family stranded on island at Abiquiu Lake

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, 2016: Game wardens save family stranded on island at Abiquiu Lake ABIQUIU – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish officers rescued a Santa Fe family of six left stranded on an island at Abiquiu Lake after their boat swamped during an outing Tuesday. The two adults and four children were saved after New Mexico State Police radio dispatch received a distress call by cellphone from the family that evening. The department’s game warden stationed in Espanola, Wyatt Harwell, responded to the call with his powerboat and two other officers. The officers found the stranded family and loaded them onboard. They also drained the family’s boat and towed it back to the boat ramp. “The parents did a great job of getting the kids to [...]

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 30, 2016: Youth encouragement elk hunting licenses for sale SANTA FE – More than 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 6. 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 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 ARE: 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 [...]

Department of Game and Fish employees lauded for their work

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, 2016: Department of Game and Fish employees lauded for their work SANTA FE – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish employees were recognized for outstanding job performance at a recent meeting of the State Game Commission in Santa Rosa. Employees of the department’s six fish hatcheries were recognized at the commission’s June 23 meeting for their combined effort to provide plenty of fish for anglers to catch. Also noted was a new hatchery program which produces bigger trout that has proven popular with many anglers. Roddy Gallegos, the department’s assistant chief of fisheries, was recognized for his leadership and oversight of hatchery staff implementing the program. Other employees recognized for outstanding job performance in their fields were: George Farmer, a wildlife specialist and conservation [...]

Game and Fish and Texas Tech Collaborate on research project

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Zen Mocarski, (505) 476-8013 zenon.mocarski@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 29, 2016: Game and Fish and Texas Tech Collaborate on research project SANTA FE – Today, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish announced that they will be partnering with Texas Tech University to address low pronghorn fawn survival rates in south-central New Mexico. The low survival rate over the last five years has biologists looking for answers. New Mexico Department of Game and Fish personnel, in collaboration with Texas Tech University, captured 58 fawns outside of Capitan, N.M. in an effort to discover the primary causes for high fawn mortality. The pronghorn fawns were captured in May and June using a hoop net. Body measurements were taken and ear-tag transmitters placed on each animal and then they were quickly released to reduce overall stress. [...]

Missing bear cubs caught Saturday

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact: Lance Cherry: (505) 476-8003 lance.cherry@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 26, 2016: Missing bear cubs caught Saturday JEMEZ MOUNTAINS, NM – Exactly one week after an adult female black bear was euthanized following an attack on a woman participating in a marathon event on the Valles Caldera National Preserve near Los Alamos, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officers dispatched the message so many were hoping to hear, “We’ve got them. We caught the cubs!” Last Thursday, a National Park Service (NPS) biologist spotted the cubs and contacted the Department. Officers responded only to find they had once again managed to slip away. Over the next few days, efforts increased to find the cubs and on Saturday, it paid off when the Department’s tracker and an officer located the cubs. Using dogs, the [...]

News Releases for 2015

Game Commission to meet at new location in Taos

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 10, 2015: GAME COMMISSION TO MEET AT NEW LOCATION IN TAOS TAOS – The location of the New Mexico Game Commission’s June 13 meeting in Taos has been changed to a larger venue to better accommodate the public. The meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 13, at the Kachina Lodge, 413 Paseo del Pueblo Norte in Taos. The meeting previously was scheduled to be at the Harwood Museum of Art, 238 Ledoux St., in Taos. The commission will consider numerous matters during the meeting including a discussion of management plans for hunting, fishing and trapping on the Valles Caldera National Preserve following its recent transfer to the National Park Service. The full agenda, detailed agenda-item briefings and other information are available on the [...]

Capitan man kills charging bear

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 231-5375 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 dan.williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 5, 2015 CAPITAN MAN KILLS CHARGING BEAR LINCOLN – A 25-year-old Capitan man shot and killed a charging bear while looking for shed antlers in the Lincoln National Forest. The man was not injured by the bear. He reported Thursday evening that he was searching for antlers in the forest between Carrizozo and Capitan when he encountered the bear as he came over the top of a hill. He told officers that the bear charged and he shot it with his .30-30 caliber rifle from about 10 yards away. Department of Game and Fish Officers investigated the incident and recovered the carcass of the bear, an adult female, early Friday morning. There was no evidence to indicate the presence of cubs. Referring to the man who shot the [...]

Game Commission to meet Saturday, June 13, in Taos

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 4: GAME COMMISSION TO MEET SATURDAY, JUNE 13, IN TAOS TAOS – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet June 13 in Taos to consider numerous matters, including a discussion of management plans for hunting, fishing and trapping on the Valles Caldera National Preserve following its recent transfer to the National Park Service. The meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2015, at the UNM Harwood Museum of Art, 238 Ledoux St., Taos. The full agenda, detailed agenda-item briefings and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website. Details of proposed rules and opportunities to comment about them also are available on the website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Other agenda items include: A proposal to develop procedures for the public and licensed [...]

Bear sought in attack on shed hunter

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 2, 2015 BEAR SOUGHT IN ATTACK ON SHED HUNTER LINCOLN – Department of Game and Fish officers are searching for an adult black bear involved in the attack of a 55-year-old man in the Lincoln National Forest on Monday afternoon. The Lincoln County man suffered deep flesh wounds from scratches on his chest and a bite to his leg. He was treated and released from Lincoln County Medical Center in Ruidoso. Conservation officers were searching for the bear Tuesday so it can be tested for rabies. The New Mexico Department of Health will interview the victim to assess his potential exposure and the need for rabies vaccinations. Rabies in bears is rare but it is a nearly 100 percent fatal disease, so every precaution will be taken. The [...]

Officers kill puppy-eating cougar

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Clint Henson, (575) 445-2311 Public contact: (888)-248-6866 clint.henson@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MAY 29, 2015: OFFICERS KILL PUPPY-EATING COUGAR RATON – Department of Game and Fish officers killed a cougar in a Raton neighborhood Thursday night after it had attacked a puppy on a woman’s front porch. The woman had called 911 saying she saw a small cougar attack her puppy. She later told officers that she had lost another puppy a few days before and also was missing several cats. Officers found cougar tracks and blood near the woman’s porch and called a local houndsman, who quickly treed a cougar near the home. A subsequent necropsy confirmed that the young female cougar recently had eaten a puppy. Conservation Officer Clint Henson said the cougar might have been drawn to the woman’s house because a neighbor was feeding feral cats. “Leaving uneaten [...]

News Releases for 2014

Southwest New Mexico: hunters invited to give input on big-game hunting rules

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 1, 2014: HUNTERS IN SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO INVITED TO GIVE INPUT ON BIG-GAME HUNTING RULES SILVER CITY – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish invites hunters and wildlife enthusiasts in the Silver City area to give comments on several big-game hunting rules during a public meeting at 6 p.m. May 5 in the Grant County Commission meeting room of the Grant County Administration Building, 1400 Highway 180 East. Participants are asked to bring their questions, concerns and ideas. The department is seeking public input about proposed hunting rules for Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn and oryx. The department also is seeking input for turkey and migratory game bird hunting rules. Times and locations of meetings, as well as rule development [...]

Albuquerque area Hunter Education instructors sought

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Jennifer Morgan, (505) 222-4722 Public contact: (888)-248-6866 jennifer.morgan@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MAY 1, 2014 ALBUQUERQUE AREA HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS SOUGHT ALBUQUERQUE – New Mexico’s Hunter Education program is looking for new instructors to help meet course demand in the Bernalillo County area. In the Albuquerque metro area, a handful of dedicated Hunter Education Instructors currently conduct dozens of courses annually, graduating just under a thousand new hunters each year. “These special volunteers make our program a success,” Game and Fish Hunter Education Coordinator Jennifer Morgan said. “They also have the opportunity to pass along our proud hunting traditions to the next generation.” To learn more about New Mexico’s Hunter Education program, and how to get involved, contact Morgan at the Game and Fish Hunter Education Program office (505) 222-4722 or via email at jennifer.morgan@state.nm.us. ###

May 1 is ‘Stop Poaching Day’

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071; cell: (505) 470-6832 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 30, 2014: MAY 1 IS 'STOP POACHING DAY' SANTA FE – May 1 is “Stop Trophy Poaching Day,” in New Mexico, emphasizing the serious threat the illegal activity poses to the state’s long tradition of hunting, and highlighting the contribution of hunting to New Mexico’s heritage and economy. Trophy poaching occurs when illegal hunters kill large wild game and take only the heads, antlers and horns, which can fetch large amounts of money on the black market. The meat and hide on the poached animals usually are left to rot. The offense is a misdemeanor in New Mexico and convictions often result in light penalties. The Department supported bills for stiffer penalties in the last two legislative sessions, but neither passed. The Wild Friends Program [...]

Enjoy wildlife areas, but remember permit

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Richard McDonald, (575) 532-2106 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Richard.mcdonald@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 29, 2014: ENJOY WILDLIFE AREAS, BUT REMEMBER PERMIT SILVER CITY – The Department of Game and Fish wants to remind visitors to purchase the required licenses and permits before visiting Wildlife Management Areas owned by the State Game Commission. Officers will be educating the public about the requirements and issuing misdemeanor citations for noncompliance. Anyone 18 years of age and older accessing Wildlife Management Areas are required to have a valid hunting or fishing license or a Gaining Access into Nature permit and a $4 Habitat Management and Access Validation stamp. The department urges visitors to purchase their licenses and permits before their trip. Licenses and permits can be purchased online at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website at www.wildlife.state.nm.us, by phone at (888) 248-6866, [...]

Big-game hunting application results available Wednesday

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 476-8004 Public contact: (505) 476-8000 dan.williams@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 22, 2014: BIG-GAME HUNTING APPLICATION RESULTS AVAILABLE WEDNESDAY SANTA FE – Hunters who applied for New Mexico big-game licenses can look up their draw results Wednesday thanks to the paperless, all-online system that allows the Department of Game and Fish to process applications faster than ever. Applicants can view their draw results beginning at 10 a.m. Wednesday from their accounts on the Department website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The Department sent e-mail messages to successful applicants, informing them that they can print out receipts and licenses from their online account. Unsuccessful applicants will begin receiving license-fee refunds this week. Draw results also will be available Wednesday by telephone by calling the Department’s toll-free information line, (888) 248-6866. The Department received 169,463 applications – almost 10,000 more than last year – for [...]

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