New Mexico

Wildlife mandate in statute

“It is the purpose of this act and the policy of the state of New Mexico to provide an adequate and flexible system for the protection of the game and fish of New Mexico and for their use and development for public recreation and food supply, and to provide for their propagation, planting, protection, regulation and conservation to the extent necessary to provide and maintain an adequate supply of game and fish within the state of New Mexico.”

The Commission:

  • Name: New Mexico State Game Commission
  • Regulatory or advisory: Regulatory
  • Number of voting members: 7
  • Term length: 4 years
  • How selected: Appointed by Governor
  • Senate confirmation required: Yes
  • Selection criteria per statute: 

“In making appointments to the state game commission, one member shall be appointed from each of (five) districts…The remaining two members shall be appointed at-large. At least one member of the commission shall manage and operate a farm or ranch that contains at least two species of wildlife…At least one member shall have a demonstrated history of involvement in wildlife and habitat protection issues and whose activities or occupation are not in conflict with wildlife and habitat advocacy.” 

  • From the Commission’s website

The New Mexico Legislature created a three-member State Game Commission in 1921. The commission eventually became a seven-member citizens’ body that sets hunting and fishing regulations, hires the Department of Game and Fish director, oversees spending of a more than $35 million annual budget, and sets the department’s overall direction.

The Agency:

  • Name: New Mexico Game & Fish
  • Type: Standalone agency
  • Title of Agency Director: Director
  • Selection process: Appointed by the State Game Commission
  • Mission statement from agency website

“To conserve, regulate, propagate and protect the wildlife and fish within the state of New Mexico using a flexible management system that ensures sustainable use for public food supply, recreation and safety; and to provide for off-highway motor vehicle recreation that recognizes cultural, historic, and resource values while ensuring public safety.”

Revenues:

Find Your State

America’s Wildlife Values was an extensive 2018 nationwide survey led by Colorado State University of public attitudes towards wildlife. Findings were compared with a 2004 survey to identify trends. Researchers also surveyed personnel at state wildlife agencies. Reports are available for national, state and agency results. (Some state agencies did not participate.)

State Report

National Report