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

NMDGF News

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Free Fishing Day is Saturday, June 3

SANTA FE – Anglers can fish for free in New Mexico on Saturday, June 3, as the state celebrates National Boating and Fishing Week. Anyone can fish for free in public fishing waters throughout the state Saturday, June 3, but everyone must observe bag limits and all other rules and regulations. For more information, please visit the Department’s website. “This is a great time to take your family fishing and teach them a skill that will provide a lifetime of enjoyment,” said Mike Sloane, director for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. For information on additional places to fish and what to use, consult the Department’s weekly fishing and stocking report and the Fishing Conditions and Trip Planner. Maps of public fishing waters, lists of where to find family-friendly fishing and tips on how to fish also can be found on the Department's website. The Department reminds anglers and outdoor recreationists to “know before you go” [...]

May 19 Commission Meeting Postponed

Thew New Mexico State Game Commission meeting originally scheduled for Friday, May 19, in Santa Fe has been postponed. The Department will issue a revised meeting notice once the meeting is rescheduled. At that time, the revised agenda, location address, attendee information additional information will be available on the department of Game and Fish website.

Rio Rancho Archer Takes Top Honors at the National Archery in the Schools Program 2023 Western Nationals Championship

ALBUQUERQUE – In March, 85 New Mexico youth archers competing at the 2023 New Mexico National Archery in the School Program (NASP) State Championship qualified to participate in the Western Nationals Championship. Almost two thousand youth archers from 25 states competed for individual and team awards at the NASP Western Nationals Championship held at the Mountain America Center in Sandy, Utah, April 28-29, 2023. Bell Savary, a fifth grader from Maggie Cordova Elementary School in Rio Rancho, won the elementary bullseye division by earning a score of 275 out of 300. Savary outcompeted 182 elementary females for the first-ever NASP national title won by a youth representing New Mexico. Other New Mexico archers earning top-10 status were: Aiden McConnell from Southwest Aeronautics, Mathematics and Science (SAMS) Academy won fifth place in the high school male division with 290 points; Ashlynn McGinnis from Red Mountain Middle School won third place [...]

Bill Evans Lake Project Nears Completion

Your Content Goes Here New Mexico Department of Game and FishPublic contact, Information Center: 888-248-6866Media contact, Darren Vaughan: 505-476-8027darren.vaughan@dgf.nm.gov GRANT COUNTY  – Bill Evans Lake, located approximately eight miles south of Cliff, is now open to the public as work to improve boater access and fishing opportunities nears completion. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has installed a new boat ramp and fishing access points, as well as improved road access on the north side of the lake. The old boat ramp has been modified to provide better access for non-motorized watercraft, and several fishing jetties were also added. Please note that the new boat ramp will remain closed until the water level comes up enough for boats to launch safely – likely in June – at which time the new boat dock will be installed. The project cost approximately $800,000, with funding coming from license sales [...]

Game Commission to meet May 19 (MEETING POSTPONED)

Update: The New Mexico State Game Commission meeting originally scheduled has been postponed. The department will issue a revised meeting notice once the meeting is rescheduled. At the time, the revised agenda, location address, attendee information and additional will be available soon. SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will hold a meeting at 9 a.m., Friday, May 19, 2023, in the Fisheries Management Division Conference Room at NMDGF Headquarters; One Wildlife Way; Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507. 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 [...]

News Releases for 2021

News Releases for 2020

Hunters urged to complete draw applications online or by phone to protect public health

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, 2020: Hunters urged to complete draw applications online or by phone to protect public health SANTA FE – Following the New Mexico Department of Health’s public health order regarding mass gatherings and in an effort to prevent transmission of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish requests draw applications be completed online or over the telephone whenever possible. As the 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, deadline approaches, there are long lines forming at many of our office locations throughout the state to apply for the draw; an unnecessary health risk when there are several remote application options available. Applications can be completed online at https://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us/ or by calling either the Information Center (1-888-248-6866) or one of our Area Offices. The Information [...]

Big Game deadline approaching and events across the state are postponed to protect public health

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, 2020: Big Game deadline approaching and events across the state are postponed to protect public health SANTA FE – Following the New Mexico Department of Health’s public health order regarding mass gatherings and in an effort to prevent transmission of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), several events in March and April have been postponed. However, the March 18, 2020 deadline to apply for big game hunts in New Mexico is still in place. The Department would like to remind hunters of the upcoming 5 pm. March 18 deadline to apply for the big game draw. Apply now at https://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us/. All nonessential Department employees are working from home; however, a limited number of essential employees will be answering draw related questions from: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. March [...]

Game Commission to meet March 4 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, MARCH 2, 2020: Game Commission to meet March 4 in Albuquerque SANTA FE –The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Wednesday, March 4, in Albuquerque. The meeting will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Department’s Northwest Area office, located at 7816 Alamo Road NW. Agenda items include: Commission action on the State Land Office Easement for the 2020-2021 license year Initiation of Migratory Bird Rule for 2020-2021 Hunting Seasons Initiation of Biennial Review of State Listed and Threatened or Endangered Species Discussion on Amendments to the Hunting and Fishing Manner and Method 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 [...]

Bill Evans Lake WMA temporary road closure

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 5, 2020: Bill Evans Lake WMA temporary road closure SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will be conducting a restoration project to improve fish habitat at Bill Evans Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) near Silver City. To ensure public safety during construction the northwest access road will be closed starting Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 5:00 p.m. and will reopen Friday, Feb. 14 at noon. The southern access road, including the boat ramp, will remain open throughout the project. The project will improve habitat for several sport fish species such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout and bluegill. It will focus on increasing spawning areas for adult fish and hiding areas for juvenile fish, ultimately improving angling at Bill Evans Lake [...]

State Game Commission welcomes newest member

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. 14, 2020: State Game Commission welcomes newest member SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission welcomes Mrs. Sharon Salazar Hickey as its newest appointed member. Mrs. Hickey serves as a Program Manager for the Associate Laboratory Director for Environment, Safety, Health, Quality, Safeguards and Security whose goal is to protect and preserve people, the environment, resources and information at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Leading the Office of Institutional Policy, Mrs. Hickey has extensive experience in policies and procedures, government contracts, employment law and alternative dispute and conflict resolution. Mrs. Hickey is a native New Mexican and was raised in Los Alamos. Receiving her Juris Doctorate degree from California Western School of Law, Mrs. Hickey is also a member of the New Mexico State [...]

News Releases for 2019

Students, schools claim titles at National Archery in the Schools State Tournament

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. 11, 2019: Students, schools claim titles at National Archery in the Schools State Tournament ALBUQUERQUE – More than 800 archers competed at the eighth annual National Archery in the Schools (NASP) State Tournament Feb. 9 at the Albuquerque Convention Center. “We had 830 of New Mexico’s top archers compete toe-to-toe today,” said John Martsh, recruitment, retention, reactivation (R3) program manager for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. “We really can’t say enough about the dedication and hard work the students, coaches and families invested in making this one of the best tournaments in the nation.” Caillie Waters of the Albuquerque Institute for Mathematics and Science at the University of New Mexico (AIMS@UNM) scored 266 out of a possible 300 points to take first place [...]

Deadline to apply for bear and turkey permits is Wednesday

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 11, 2019: Deadline to apply for bear and turkey permits is Wednesday SANTA FE – The deadline to apply for 2019-2020 bear and turkey permits is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13. Draw results will be available Feb. 27. 2019-2020 rules and information booklets can be found on the Department of Game and Fish website. Hunters can apply online, by telephone or in person at department offices. For more information or help in applying for the draw, please call the information center at (888) 248-6866. Successful applicants must purchase a 2019 bear or turkey license with applicable stamp(s) after March 25. Draw permits may not be printed before the bear or turkey license is purchased. The draw deadline for big game, including elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, Barbary [...]

Fox bites homeowner, tests positive for rabies

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866 Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027 tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us New Mexico Department of Health Media Contact, Paul Rhien: (505) 470-2290 paul.rhien@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JAN. 29,2019: Fox bites homeowner, tests positive for rabies LAS VEGAS – On Saturday, Conservation Officer Justin Hepler responded to a call from a Las Vegas homeowner who was bitten by a fox she believed was starving when she attempted to feed it. After meeting with the bite victim at a local hospital, the officer learned the fox had jumped into a parked vehicle and began eating insulation on the door and chewing on a hammer handle. The homeowner admitted to offering the fox a bowl of dog food when it bit her on the wrist and hand, leaving several puncture wounds on both arms. Once on the scene, the officer was able to locate [...]

2019-2020 draw hunt application opens 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, JANUARY 16, 2019: 2019-2020 draw hunt application opens today SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish began accepting applications for 2019-2020 big-game and turkey licenses and permits at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan.16, online and over the telephone. Information about rules, seasons, fees and more is available in the 2019-2020 Hunting Rules & Information booklet online now at www.wildlife.state.nm.us and available in print soon at license vendors and department offices. Hunters are encouraged to review season dates, application deadlines and other information before applying for licenses or going afield. The application deadline for bear and turkey permits is 5 p.m. Feb. 13. The application deadline for big-game licenses is 5 p.m. March 20. Hunters need to file all mandatory harvest reports from last season’s hunts to [...]

Game Commission to meet Jan. 10 Santa Fe

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, January 7, 2019: Game Commission to meet Jan. 10 in Santa Fe SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Game Commission will meet Thursday, January 10, 2019, in Santa Fe to elect 2019 chair and vice chair positions and to hear a presentation on the department’s 2018 accomplishments. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Fe Community College Board Room, located at 6401 Richards Avenue. Other agenda items include: Results from the Fiscal Year 2018 audit from Moss Adams Presentation on the department’s education efforts Update on the development of shooting ranges The full agenda and other information are available on the Department of Game and Fish website at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The State Game Commission is composed of seven members who [...]

News Releases for 2018

Game Commission to meet June 21 in Raton

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: Game Commission to meet June 21 in Raton SANTA FE – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet Thursday, June 21, in Raton to discuss potential hunting rule changes for turkey and migratory bird. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Raton Convention Center located at 901 South Third Street, in Raton. Other agenda items include: An update on the construction of the Albuquerque and Roswell Office Complexes. An update on habitat projects throughout New Mexico in the past four years. Initial discussions for potential rule changes for deer, elk, private land elk license application, licenses/permits specific to vendor opportunities, hunting and fishing applications, and potential amendments for the manner and method rule. The full agenda and other [...]

Fire restrictions, closures increasing statewide; Game and Fish patrolling Commission 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, June 5, 2018: Fire restrictions, closures increasing statewide; Game and Fish patrolling Commission properties SANTA FE – As drought continues to increase fire danger statewide, the Kid's Pond at the Seven Springs Fish Hatchery in the Jemez Mountains will be closed at dusk on Wednesday, June 6. By mutual agreement with the Benedictine Monastery, the Department will also concurrently close Monastery Lake in Pecos, NM. Both locations will remain closed until conditions improve in and around the Santa Fe National Forest. In addition to enforcing closures and fire restrictions, Department of Game and Fish conservation officers will increase patrols on State Game Commission-owned properties. Commission properties also will follow the same restrictions or closures in place on properties adjacent to U.S. Forest Service or BLM lands. Additional [...]

Free Fishing Day is Saturday, June 2

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, MAY 31, 2018: Free Fishing Day is Saturday, June 2 SANTA FE - Anglers can fish for free in New Mexico on Saturday, June 2, as the state celebrates National Boating and Fishing Week. Anyone can fish for free in public fishing waters throughout the state Saturday, June 2, but everyone must observe bag limits and all other rules and regulations. For more information, please visit www.wildlife.state.nm.us. “This is a great time to take your family fishing and teach them a skill that will provide a lifetime of enjoyment,” said Kevin Holladay, conservation education coordinator for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Holladay notes several opportunities across the state: Monastery Lake in Pecos Canyon – The 2nd Annual Fishing Expo at Monastery Lake in will [...]

Game Commission properties that adjoin Santa Fe National Forest, including Pecos Canyon, 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, MAY 31, 2018: Game Commission properties that adjoin the Santa Fe National Forest, including Pecos Canyon, closed to access SANTA FE – Due to drought and extreme fire danger, State Game Commission properties adjacent to the Santa Fe National Forest, including campgrounds and fishing areas in Pecos Canyon, the Bluebird Wildlife Management Area, and portions of Fenton Lake Wildlife Management Area will be closed to all public access beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, June 1. The closure will coincide with a full public-access closure on the Santa Fe 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 [...]

Special oryx hunts available for injured servicemen

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, May 31, 2018: Special oryx hunts available for injured servicemen SANTA FE -- Injured military service members can apply online starting June 13 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. To be eligible, one must be active-duty military or a veteran of the U.S. military who has a disability rating of 50 percent or greater in accordance with U.S. Veteran’s Administration guidelines for receiving disabled veteran benefits. Applicants (except NMDGF Disabled Veteran card holders) are required to provide proof of eligibility prior to the July 18 application deadline. Significantly injured, active-duty military members who don’t have a VA disability rating also may apply and will need [...]

News Releases for 2017

Information sought on poached elk near Logan

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Clint Henson, (575) 445-2311 Public contact: (888)-248-6866 Email: clint.henson@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, June 1, 2017: Information sought on poached elk near Logan TUCUMCARI – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish game wardens are seeking information about a poached elk whose skeletal remains were found May 25 off Trigg Road about eight miles west of the intersection of N.M. 39 approximately four miles north of Logan. Conservation Officer Justin Heppler suspects the bull elk was killed within days of its discovery and was butchered for its meat. The head and antlers also were missing and only the skeletal remains and some scraps were left behind. Anyone with information about this case or any other wildlife crimes is urged to call the department’s toll-free Operation Game Thief hotline, (800) 432-4263. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for rewards if charges [...]

Illegal possession of elk antlers leads to stiff fine

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: Illegal possession of elk antlers leads to stiff fine SILVER CITY – A judge has ordered a Silver City man to pay the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish $4,000 for illegal possession of a set of trophy elk antlers. Hidalgo County Magistrate Mark Thomas issued the judgement in a recent civil case against Michael C. Aguirre, 40, of Silver City, according to court records. The case stemmed from a November 2015 traffic stop near Cliff, where Aguirre was questioned by game wardens about a trophy set of elk antlers found in the bed of his pickup. Aguirre told the officers he picked up the antler rack while deer hunting with his son. The antlers were still attached to part of [...]

Annual Lake Roberts kid’s fishing derby features big Gila trout

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, May 30, 2017: Annual Lake Roberts kid’s fishing derby features big Gila trout LAKE ROBERTS – Head into the Gila National Forest Saturday, June 3 for the sixth annual Aldo Leopold Kid’s Fishing Derby at Lake Roberts. Native Gila trout from the Mora National Fish Hatchery, including some record-breaking, retired brood stock will be put into the lake just before the derby, said Jill Wick, Gila trout biologist for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Certified scales will be on site to officially weigh fish. The state record Gila trout, weighing 4 pounds, 8 ounces and measuring 20-inches in length, was caught in the Gila River in 2007. Lake Roberts is off N.M. 35 north of Silver City in southwestern New Mexico. The event will feature [...]

Free fishing Saturday, June 3

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, May 30, 2017: Free fishing Saturday, June 3 SANTA FE – Anglers can fish for free in New Mexico on Saturday, June 3, as the state celebrates National Boating and Fishing Week. “This is a great time to take kids fishing and teach them a sport that will provide a lifetime of enjoyment,” said Eric Frey, sportfish program manager for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Anyone can fish for free in public fishing waters throughout the state Saturday, June 3, but everyone must observe bag limits and all other rules and regulations. For more information, please visit www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Kids can learn to fish at the annual, free fishing derby on the Santa Fe River at the intersection of East Alameda and Old Santa Fe [...]

Public comment sought on draft Environmental Assessment for construction of the Northwest Area Office

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, MAY 26, 2017: Public comment sought on draft Environmental Assessment for construction of the Northwest Area Office SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Northwest Area Office project for construction of a new regional office in Albuquerque. 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 draft EA can be found on the department website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us/public-comment. Comments can be sent to abqofficeproject@swca.com and must be received [...]

News Releases for 2016

Public urged to catch fish in 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 22, 2016: Public urged to catch fish in Santa Fe River before it goes dry 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 from the Santa Fe River between Camino Cabra and Camino Alire from June 22-30. 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 the June 4 children’s fishing derby. Anglers caught most of those fish, but some [...]

Three deer hunts removed from June 22 leftover license 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, 2016: Three deer hunts removed from June 22 leftover license sale SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish has revised the list of available leftover hunting licenses that are scheduled to be sold June 22. Deer hunt codes DER-3-194, DER-3-200 and DER-3-307 will not be available when the leftover sale begins June 22. A post-draw audit revealed a discrepancy requiring their removal from the sale. Over 1,400 deer hunting licenses, over 1,000 javelina licenses and 7 elk licenses that were not allocated during the annual drawing for 2016-17 big-game hunting licenses will go on sale at 10 a.m. MDT June 22, only on the Department of Game and Fish website. New Mexico residents will get first shot at the licenses during the first-come, [...]

Bear responsible for attack on Valles Caldera marathon runner caught; euthanized

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 19, 2016: Bear responsible for attack on Valles Caldera marathon runner caught; euthanized JEMEZ – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish conservation officers tracked and killed an adult female black bear that attacked a woman Saturday afternoon while she was participating in a marathon event on the Valles Caldera National Preserve near Los Alamos. The bear is to be transported to the state Veterinary Diagnostic Services center for necropsy. State law requires any wild animal that attacks or bites a human be euthanized and tested for rabies which is spread when an infected animal scratches or bites another animal or human. Although it is rare, rabies is nearly 100 percent fatal if not properly treated. “It is regrettable when a wildlife encounter results in human [...]

Bear sought in attack on Valles Caldera marathon runner

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 19, 2016: Bear sought in attack on Valles Caldera marathon runner JEMEZ – Department of Game and Fish officers are searching for an adult female black bear that attacked a woman Saturday afternoon while she was participating in a marathon event on the Valles Calderas National Preserve near Los Alamos. According to responding officers, the attack occurred when the victim surprised a mother bear whose cub ran up a nearby tree. Although the full extent of the victim’s injuries are unknown, initial reports indicate that woman was bit and scratched multiple times and sustained non-life threatening injuries to her upper body, head and neck. Nearby joggers provided immediate assistance until additional help could arrive. She was airlifted to an Albuquerque area hospital where she is being [...]

2016-17 Migratory Game Bird Rules and Information Booklet now available online

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 17, 2016: 2016-17 Migratory Game Bird Rules and Information Booklet now available online SANTA FE – Rules and information about applying for licenses and hunting migratory game birds, including doves, sandhill cranes and waterfowl for the 2016-17 season are now available online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. New this season are an increase in the bag limit and number of permits available for sandhill cranes. The department will begin accepting applications July 27 for sandhill crane hunts. The application deadline is 5 p.m. MDT Aug. 24. Applications can be made online or over the telephone through the department’s Information Center at 1-888-248-6866. Information about hunt dates, licensing requirements, maps and other details are available on the department’s website, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. Printed versions of the Migratory Game Bird hunting rules [...]

News Releases for 2015

Elephant Butte Lake to be stocked with 20,000 bass

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Jeremy Lane, (575) 532-2106 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 jeremy.lane@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MAY 5, 2015: ELEPHANT BUTTE LAKE TO BE STOCKED WITH 20,000 BASS ELEPHANT BUTTE – Bass anglers and the community of Elephant Butte Lake plan to stock 20,000 juvenile largemouth bass to help improve fishing at the state’s biggest reservoir. Anglers and community members raised $21,000 to purchase the 3- to 4-inch bass that are expected to be delivered May 6, said Ron Gilworth, a Socorro bass fisherman involved in the community project. Volunteers in boats will distribute the fish around the lake with assistance from New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and Elephant Butte Lake State Park staff. “We hope to improve the fishing here, not just for tournament bass fishers, but for all future anglers,” Gilworth said. “This is a win-win for the community, working to [...]

Game Commission to meet May 7 in Farmington

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, APRIL 29, 2015: GAME COMMISSION TO MEET MAY 7 IN FARMINGTON Commissioners will tour All Vets Memorial, Farmington and Jackson lakes May 6, public invited FARMINGTON – The New Mexico Game Commission will meet May 7 in Farmington to consider numerous matters, including proposed changes to bear, cougar and waterfowl hunting rules. The meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, May 7, 2015, at the Farmington Civic Center, 200 West Arrington St., in Farmington. The day before the meeting, the public is invited to join commissioners as they tour the All Vets Memorial on the Animas River, Farmington Lake and the Jackson Lake Wildlife Area. For more details, see the constituency tour agenda at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The full agenda, detailed agenda-item briefings and other information are available [...]

Public meetings scheduled for bear and cougar hunting rules

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, APRIL 29, 2015: PUBLIC MEETINGS SCHEDULED FOR BEAR AND COUGAR HUNTING RULES SANTA FE - The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is conducting statewide public meetings about proposed changes to bear and cougar hunting rules. The department reviews rules for hunting bears and cougars every four years and encourages public involvement as the State Game Commission considers new regulations. The meetings: Las Cruces: 6 p.m. May 4, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Southwest Area Office, 2715 Northrise Drive, Las Cruces. Albuquerque: 6 p.m. May 5, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Northwest Area Office, 3841 Midway Place NE, Albuquerque. Ruidoso: 6 p.m. May 27, U.S. Forest Service Fire Control Bldg., 901 Mechem Drive, Ruidoso. Silver City: 6 p.m. May 28, Grant County Administration Center, County Commissioner [...]

Fox involved in attack tests positive for rabies

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, APRIL 23: FOX INVOLVED IN ATTACK TESTS POSITIVE FOR RABIES LINCOLN COUNTY– A fox that attacked a 78-year-old woman in Lincoln County on April 20 tested positive for rabies and officials are warning the public to stay away from wildlife that is dead, injured or acting abnormally. “The public should be vigilant and stay away from any animals behaving strangely,” said Dr. Kerry Mower, wildlife disease specialist for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. “People should vaccinate their pets.” Wildlife acting sick, fearless, aggressive or friendly should be considered a threat and avoided, Mower said. “Rabies in humans is a fatal disease once symptoms start, so it is critical that people who are bitten receive post-exposure prevention therapy when indicated,” said New Mexico Department of Health Secretary [...]

Trout removed from Lisboa Springs Fish Hatchery

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, DATE: April 21, 2015: TROUT REMOVED FROM LISBOA SPRINGS FISH HATCHERY PECOS – More than 160,000 small rainbow trout will be removed from their raceways at Lisboa Springs Hatchery near Pecos after tests showed some of the fish had contracted a bacterial disease. The Department of Game and Fish found bacterial kidney disease in trout being raised in one of two sections of the hatchery during regular testing in early February. All of the trout, ranging in size from three to nine inches, will be destroyed to ensure full decontamination of the section, department Fisheries Chief Mike Sloane said. “That’s why we do this testing to ensure we are raising strong, healthy fish for the public to catch and eat,” Sloane said. The disease is naturally present in the [...]

News Releases for 2014

Improvements underway at the Hammond Tract wildlife management area

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 17, 2014: IMPROVEMENTS UNDERWAY AT THE HAMMOND TRACT WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA BLOOMFIELD – The Department of Game and Fish is restoring wetlands and improving access to the Hammond Tract Wildlife Management Area along the San Juan River. The hunting and fishing area, including the boat ramp, located downstream from Navajo Dam, will be closed during the improvements until June 20. Boaters should exit the river before reaching the Hammond Tract boat ramp, since it is the last takeout before the Hammond Diversion. Starting Monday, and over the next few weeks, construction workers will restore 20 acres of riparian habitat and a half-mile of river by creating new wetlands, improving stream habitat and planting native vegetation. Workers will also replace the boat ramp and improve the parking lot. The [...]

Northwest 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 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 15, 2014: HUNTERS IN NORTHWEST NEW MEXICO INVITED TO GIVE INPUT ON BIG-GAME HUNTING RULES FARMINGTON – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish invites hunters and wildlife enthusiasts in the Farmington area to give comments on several big-game hunting rules during a public meeting at 6 p.m. April 23 in rooms A and B of the Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington St. 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 schedules for the various species are posted on [...]

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 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 15, 2014: HUNTERS IN SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO INVITED TO GIVE INPUT ON BIG-GAME HUNTING RULES LAS CRUCES – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish invites hunters and wildlife enthusiasts in the Las Cruces area to give comments on several big-game hunting rules during a public meeting at 6 p.m. April 22 at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish office, 2715 Northrise Dr. 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 schedules for the various species are posted [...]

Northeast New Mexico: Give input on big-game hunting rules

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 15, 2014: GIVE INPUT ON BIG-GAME HUNTING RULES (NORTHEAST NEW MEXICO) RATON – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish invites hunters and wildlife enthusiasts in the Raton area to give comments on several big-game hunting rules during a public meeting at 6 p.m. April 16 at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish office, 215 York Canyon Road. 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 schedules for the various species are posted on the department website. The [...]

Pecos Canyon fishing, camping areas to reopen

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Media contact: Rachel Shockley, (505) 476-8071 Public contact: (888) 248-6866 Rachel.shockley@state.nm.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 9, 2014: PECOS CANYON FISHING, CAMPING AREAS TO REOPEN - REMEMBER TO BUY YOUR LICENSE OR PERMIT BEFORE YOU GO TERRERO – Two popular fishing and camping areas in Pecos Canyon will reopen April 18 for the first time since last summer's wildfires and subsequent flooding. The Bert Clancy and Terrero fishing and recreation areas are among four State Game Commission-owned properties along N.M. 63 that were closed after the Tres Lagunas and Jarosa wildfires. The nearby Mora and Jamie Koch fishing and recreation areas also were closed, but have since reopened. The Department of Game and Fish wants everyone to enjoy our properties and to remember rules require everyone older than 18 who uses commission-owned properties to have either a valid hunting or fishing license or a [...]

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