Big investments in New Mexico's outdoor recreation!
Dispatches from the NM Outdoor Recreation Division
ORD Newsletter | April 14, 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 Director
Letter from the Director
Spring is here, and with it comes longer days, blooming landscapes, and some exciting news for outdoor recreation in New Mexico!
Thanks to a very successful legislative session, we’re celebrating $3 million in special appropriations for the Outdoor Equity Fund and $10 million for the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant program. Add in another round of support from the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, and we’re looking at a strong and meaningful year ahead for outdoor access, infrastructure, and community projects across the state. Read the press release for details.
What does this all mean? More opportunities for our youth to connect with nature, stronger support for rural communities, and better trails, facilities, and outdoor programs for all to enjoy. These investments are a big step toward keeping New Mexico’s outdoor economy vibrant and inclusive.
And since it’s April, we can’t forget Earth Day on April 22 —a favorite for outdoor lovers like us. It’s more than just a day on the calendar—it’s a chance to reflect on why we care so much about these places and how we can get involved to help protect them. So lace up your boots, hop on your bike, or just take a quiet walk—there’s no better time to get out there.
See you outside!
Karina Armijo
Earth Day Volunteer Opportunities and Community Events
April 19: Earth Day Fence Removal , Santa Fe
April 19: Earth Day Celebration , Las Cruces
April 22: Earth Day at Rio Fernando Park , Taos
April 22: Elephant Butte Lake State Park Cleanup , Elephant Butte
April 26: Earth Day at La Mancha Wetlands , Las Cruces
April 26: Grea t American Cleanup , Las Cruces
April 26: Eart h Day Cleanup , Pecos
April 26: L os Alamos Earth Day Festival , Los Alamos
Pecos Canyon Adopt-a-Site Volunteer Program
In Other News
Scenes from ribbon cutting on Kinnikinnik Park ADA Trail
Mountain biking's impact on rural communities detailed in new report
Keeping the water flowing: How Taos acequias are adapting to New Mexico’s 20-year drought
To stop or not to stop: Bike safety act signed by Governor
Rio Grande Trail Commission updates
Get Involved
Media opportunities for NM outdoor recreation businesses
New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division is seeking outdoor businesses who might be interested in sharing their experiences with media outlets.
Outdoor Retail Sales Trends: Key Insights & Forecasts for 2025
Join industry experts for a webinar on April 17 to take an in-depth look at insights from market data, predictions for the future, and learn how top outdoor brands and retailers are adapting to a rapidly evolving outdoor market.
Continental Divide Trail Days
Head to Silver City April 18-20 for a celebration of the landscape and communities that surround the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals Webinars
April 16: Conservation Finance Toolbox for Outdoor Recreation Projects
April 23: Leveraging Private Investments for Recreation Infrastructure and Trails
Agua es Vida: How water shapes us, and how we shape water
Join New Mexico Land Conservancy on April 23 for a panel discussion on the cultural and ecological values of water for New Mexico communities, and how we can protect waterways.
Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education - Inclusive Summit & Webinars
Register today for this virtual summit that will take place on April 24, 2025 . You can also sign up for a variety of webinars covering outdoor inclusivity topics.
A Tale of Two Tails
Join Impact Outdoors on April 25 for a public event at Glenwood Community Park to celebrate community, conservation and connection. Free dinner, live music, and opportunities to learn more about wild turkeys and biodiversity in the Gila Wilderness.
Santa Fe Brewing Co Spring Runoff
The Outdoor Recreation Division is proud to sponsor the Spring Runoff event! Join us at Santa Fe Brewing Co HQ on April 26 for live music, games, and show your support for outdoor nonprofits dedicated to expanding access and protecting our outdoor spaces.
¡mira! Las Cruces
A free spring festival on April 26 that highlights the art, culture, cuisine, outdoor recreation, sights and sounds that make Las Cruces, NM and its surrounding communities one of a kind.
Upcoming Race Events
April 27 - Space Race , Truth or Consequences
April 27 - 2025 Capitol Ford Santa Fe Move for the Museum 5K Run/Walk , Santa Fe
May 11 - Bridges Off-Road Triathlon , Albuquerque
May 16-18 - Santa Fe Century Ride , Sante Fe
May 17 - Vermejo Charcoal Burner , Raton
May 17 - Bluewater Canyon Trail Race , Bluewater
May 24 - Farmington Riverfest 10k, 5k, 2 Mile Walk , Farmington
May 31 - 10th Annual Run/Walk for Kids , Sunland Park
Sept 21 - Santa Fe International Half-Marathon , Santa Fe
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.
Admission to all NM State Parks is free to residents through April.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
Piro, Tiwa, Ute, Puebloan lands
About the Park: Situated along the Rio Grande in Albuquerque, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is a sanctuary for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features scenic trails, wetlands, and woodlands that attract over 300 bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and nature walks.
Visitors can explore the Bosque Loop Trail, enjoy wildlife viewing areas, and visit the Nature…