New Mexico’s wildlife is a vital part of our state.

They could be better protected by New Mexico’s Department of Game and Fish.

In the Land of Enchantment, we treasure our wildlife, who are deeply tied to our cultural traditions and support our $2.4 billion outdoor recreation economy through hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and more. ​​ 

But unfortunately, despite the hard work of staff, New Mexico’s Department of Game and Fish is not protecting our wildlife at the level needed.

Our current wildlife management system is outdated, underfunded, and has been politicized. 

The department lacks clear legislative authority to manage many wildlife species that aren’t hunted or fished. This, combined with insufficient funding and a patchwork of outdated laws, leaves 40 percent of our wildlife unprotected and at risk of losing habitats where they live, breed, and migrate because of drought, wildfire, and flooding. 

That’s why we’ve joined a broad coalition of hunters, anglers, conservationists, and animal protection groups to pass a reform package to that provides the tools, authority, and funding needed to build a 21st century wildlife management system for future generations. 

This way, we can sustain the hunting and fishing traditions that many New Mexicans rely upon, while improving wildlife conditions, and supporting our outdoor recreation economies.