June is for Getting Outside in New Mexico
Dispatches from the NM Outdoor Recreation Division
ORD Newsletter | June 3, 2026
Dispatches from New Mexico's
Outdoor Recreation Division
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Letter from the Director
Greetings outdoor enthusiasts,
June is here, and that means it's National Outdoors Month and we want you to celebrate with us! This is a great time to reflect on everything outdoor spaces and time in nature give us and have fun doing it.
Here's what we're celebrating this month:
National Trails Day – June 6: Hit the trails! U.S. Forest Service sites are fee-free and happening across the country
National Get Outdoors Day – June 13: Whether you're 8 or 80, this day is all about exploring the outdoors close to home
National New Mexico Day – June 14: State Parks are fee-free — perfect for discovering somewhere new or returning to an old favorite.
June also kicks off an exciting grant season for ORD. We recently announced a new Tier 2 funding opportunity through the Outdoor Equity Fund, offering grants from $40,001–$100,000 for organizations delivering high-impact outdoor programs for youth. Letters of Interest for Tier 2 are due June 12 .
Applications for both the Outdoor Equity Fund and the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant open July 1. Mandatory informational webinars and application support sessions are available for registration now to help you put your best foot forward. Visit www.nmoutside.com for details, grant guides and links to register and apply.
We are continually inspired by the communities, Tribes, nonprofits, schools and partners across New Mexico who are working to expand outdoor access for everyone. These investments are building healthier communities and stronger local economies throughout our state.
Thank you for being part of New Mexico's outdoor recreation community.
Now, let's get outside!
Karina Armijo
EDNM's New Look
The New Mexico Economic Development Department has rebranded as Economic Development New Mexico ( EDNM) to better reflect a more modern, approachable identity and to strengthen connection with the communities, businesses and partners it serves. The refreshed brand also highlights the diverse divisions within the agency, bringing greater visibility and cohesion to the full range of work happening across New Mexico’s economic landscape.
In Other News
'Friends for life': New Mexico outdoor groups foster strong connections with people, nature
Feds officially cancel conservation rule for public lands, including 13.5M acres in New Mexico
Plans unveiled for next phase of Rail Trail construction
New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Business Alliance, formerly EndeavOR, announces official re-brand and microgrants for businesses
Family fly fishing clinics are back at Valle Caldera National Preserve
Get Involved
Community Events
Check the State Parks website for a calendar of events
Visit the National Park Service website for events
June 6: Every Body Rides With Grace Adaptive Cycle Parade , Mesilla
June 6: Learn to Birdwatch , Albuquerque
June 10: Tom Swetnam Book Talk and Conservation Discussion at REI , Santa Fe
June 13, 27: Family fly fishing clinic , Valles Caldera
June 13: Open Space Visitor Center Annual Juneteenth Celebration , Albuquerque
June 26: Upper Santa Fe Watershed Hike to McClure Reservoir , Santa Fe
June 27-28: Outdoor Expo , Santa Fe
Upcoming Webinars, Workshops, and Conferences
June 11: Advocacy and Action around Outdoor Learning , virtual
June 11-12: New Mexico Working Lands Summit , Talpa
June 11-12: Next Generation Water Summit , Santa Fe
June 23: Early Childhood and Getting Outdoors Daily Session 1 (0 to 4 year olds) , virtual
June 24: Outdoor Equity Fund Tier 1 Info and Q&A Session , virtual
June 25 : Outdoor Equity Fund Tier 1 Info and Q&A Session , virtual
June 25: Early Childhood and Getting Outdoors Daily Session 2 (5 to 8 year olds) , virtual
Running and Cycling Events
For a list of running races visit runguides.com/new-mexico/runs
For a list of cycling races visit nmcycling.org
June 6: Joy Ride and Run , Gallup
June 6: Polly's Run , Albuquerque
June 13-14: Gran Fondo Cloudcroft , Cloudcroft
June 28: Women's Distance Festival , Albuquerque
July 12: Ironman 70.3 , Ruidoso
July 18-19: 24 Hours in the Enchanted Forest , Gallup
July 24: Enchanted Forest Trail Races , Red River
Outdoor Business Support
Looking for resources and to be part of the broader New Mexico outdoor recreation business community? Sign up for the New Mexico Outdoor Business Alliance newsletter at nmorba.org. View their most recent newsletter here . Sign up for an annual membership and receive a $250 Meta Marketing Micro Grant.
New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees
The award honors ranchers, farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. The application deadline is June 15, 2026 .
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.
Navajo Lake State Park
Diné, Ute, and Puebloan lands
Navajo Lake State Park offers over 15,000 acres of water and more than 180 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, kayaking and waterskiing. Camp, picnic, hike or spot wildlife like deer and eagles while enjoying the scenic high desert landscapes of northern New Mexico.
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
Visit www.spo.state.nm.us for updates on state employment opportunitie s.
Visit conservationjobboard.com , EMNRD's Career Resources page , and Outdoor Recreation…