Oct 1, 2024 · Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

[PRESS RELEASE] Girl Scouts Love State Parks draws many youth to NM State Parks

Michelle Lujan Grisham, Governor

Melanie A. Kenderdine , Cabinet Secretary Designate

Ben Shelton, Acting Deputy Cabinet Secretary

Toby Velasquez, State Parks Division Director

Contact:

Wendy Mason

Marketing & Public Relations Manager

NM State Parks Division

wendy.mason@emnrd.nm.gov

505-819-1785

Sidney Hill

Public Information Officer, EMNRD

sidney.hill@emnrd.nm.gov

505-629-2900

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

October 1, 2024

Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend draws many youth participants to New Mexico State Parks

SANTA FE, NM – During the weekend of September 14-15, more than 170 Girl Scouts took part in recreational and educational events at New Mexico State Parks as part of the national Girl Scouts Love State Parks initiative.

This is the fifth year State Parks has partnered with Girls Scouts of New Mexico Trails, Girl Scouts of the USA, and the National Association of State Parks Directors to celebrate the outdoors and conservation by hosting immersive events for the Girl Scouts and their families.

“This event is the perfect opportunity for local Girl Scouts to campout and experience the natural wonders of New Mexico State Parks firsthand,” said State Parks Director Toby Velasquez. “ Families attending not only attain outdoor skills but also gain a lasting appreciation for preserving the environment and cultural resources for future generations.”

Girl Scouts and their families learned about the local ecosystems, wildlife, plant life, and cultural resources. They were also taught how to fish, pitch tents, build campfires, and make fun outdoor-related crafts.

Bluewater Lake, Hyde Memorial, Manzano Mountains, Oliver Lee, Rio Grande Nature Center, Ute Lake, and Leasburg Dam State Parks all hosted large groups, while others in the 35-park system hosted individual Girl Scouts and their families for the day or overnight for camping.

(Figures 1-3) Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, Alamogordo , NM . Photos: NM State Parks.

(Figures 4-5) Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, Albuquerque . Photos: NM State Parks.

Interactive educational programs are available for free to the public on the Girl Scouts of the USA website . YOUR State Parks offer a wide variety of educational programs for all ages. Find a park on our website at https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/ and plan activities that last a lifetime today!

New Mexico State Parks is a division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department . Our mission is to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources, provide first-class recreational and education facilities and opportunities, and promote public safety to benefit and enrich the lives of visitors.

Sincerely,

Wendy Mason

Marketing & Public Relations Manager

Records Custodian

New Mexixo State Parks Division

Energy, Minerals & Natural Resources Department

1220 S. St Francis Dr. | Santa Fe, NM 87505

Email: wendy.mason@emnrd.nm.gov | Web: www.emnrd.nm.gov

PH 505-819-1785 (c) | Toll Free 888-667-2757

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