Adventure is Blooming in New Mexico!
Dispatches from the NM Outdoor Recreation Division
ORD Newsletter | March 31, 2025
Dispatches from New Mexico's
Outdoor Recreation Division
In the Outdoor Recreation Division’s biweekly newsletter, find the latest on office and New Mexico’s outdoor recreation initiatives.
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Letter from the Marketing Coordinator
Happy spring, outdoor enthusiasts!
Thank you to everyone who rallied from near and far to show their support for the outdoor recreation community. With over 40 businesses and organizations coming together, the Capitol was buzzing with energy as Governor Lujan Grisham, legislators, and young outdoor advocates shared powerful stories about what outdoor recreation means for New Mexico. From driving local economies to creating meaningful connections to our lands and waters, the day was a testament to the strength of this industry. Read the full story for more highlights.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to sponsor the Spring Runoff fundraiser at Santa Fe Brewing Co. Headquarters on April 26 . Join us for live music and games and show your support for outdoor nonprofits dedicated to expanding access and protecting our outdoor spaces.
We’re also seeking outdoor recreation businesses interested in sharing their stories — take a moment to fill out a brief survey .
See you on the trails,
Michelle Simon
Marketing Coordinator
In Other News
Advocates call for more outdoor recreation offices
Building a future of belonging
New Mexico Senate confirms new EMNRD Cabinet Secretary
Senate confirms Rob Black as New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary
USDA hires back all fired workers from past month
NM Forestry Division offers wildfire prevention tips ahead of ‘what could be a very bad fire season’
Landmark wildfire protection bill headed to Governor's desk
Farmington plans to break ground on new bike park this summer
Get Involved
Free Bike Shop Days
Velo Cruces and Doña Ana Village Association are offering free bike servicing and supplies! Join them on April 10 from 4-6pm.
Teaching Beyond the Walls Conference Info Session
JOTAL NM is hosting a virtual community info session on April 2 to learn more about their upcoming conference for PreK-12 educators. Participants will learn how to advance daily outdoor education and school gardens in New Mexico on June 13-14 .
Rio Grande Trail Commission Meeting
The Commission will convene for an in-person and virtual meeting on Friday April 11 from 9AM - 12PM at the Truth or Consequences Civic Center and all are invited to join.
Cultivating Abundance
Join Cruces Creatives and for a hands-on field day on April 12 . Participants will learn how to improve water retention and soil health by working with the natural contours of the land.
Volunteer Opportunities
April 3-6 – Ghost Ranch , Abiquiu
Save Gila Trout – sign up for a volunteer day at the Mora Fish National Hatchery
Reunity Resources Farm Volunteer Days – Santa Fe, NM
New Mexico Wild is searching for new volunteers
New Mexico State Park's Boating Safety Classes
Sign up for a free virtual or in-person class to get your New Mexico boater education card.
Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals Webinars
April 2: Outdoor Rec Economic Development
April 9: Collaborative Management & Implementation
Featured State Park
With 35 state parks to discover, there’s no shortage of adventure in New Mexico! From scenic lakes and rugged mountains to historic sites and hidden gems, each park offers something unique.
Clayton Lake & Dinosaur Trackways State Park
Jicarilla Apache, Arapaho, Lipan Apache, Comanche, Ute, Kiowa lands
About the Park: Nestled in the rolling grasslands of northeastern New Mexico, Clayton Lake & Dinosaur Trackways State Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and fossil lovers alike.
The park is home to one of the most extensive dinosaur trackways in North America, showcasing over 500 preserved tracks from prehistoric creatures. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating on Clayton Lake, known for its excellent trout and catfish populations. With its dark skies, the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities. Located just 15 miles from Clayton, NM, this park is a must-visit for those seeking a unique blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty.
Always practice leave no trace principles and plan ahead for your adventure. Familiarize yourself with the 10 essentials and check the State Parks website for important updates and details.
Industry Careers
Outdoor Recreation Positions Throughout New Mexico
Follow NM State Personnel Office and visit www.spo.state.nm.us
for updates on state employment opportunities.
Nature Niños has numerous exciting job openings in Albuquerque
Pajarito Environmental Education Center is hiring Summer Camp Counselors
Taos Land Trust is looking for seasonal Youth Conservation Corps crew members ages 14-18
Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals is seeking bicycle tour guides and retail specialists in Santa Fe
The Poeh Cultural Center is seeking an Agriculture Program Manager to lead their traditional Pueblo farming initiative
Girls Inc of Santa Fe is hiring a Summer Program Facilitator in Santa Fe
Albuquerque Sign Language Academy is looking to hire for their Summer Job Program
Rio Grande Returns is searching for a Seasonal Assistant Crew Lead & Crew Member in Northern NM
Gorham Scout Ranch is hiring for numerous seasonal positions in Chimayo
NM Office of the State Engineer has numerous exciting employment opportunities across the state (filter by selecting "Ofc of the State Engineer")
NM Department of Environment has several career opportunities
(filter by selecting "Department of Environment")
NM Department of Game & Fish has multiple job openings (search "department of game & fish")…