Standing Strong for the Outdoor Industry

Dispatches from the NM Outdoor Recreation Division

ORD Newsletter | February 26, 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

Dear Friends and Partners in New Mexico’s Outdoor Community,

In a time marked by significant changes and challenges, we wish to acknowledge the recent news of widespread layoffs affecting federal land management agencies. We understand that these workforce reductions have touched the lives of thousands of dedicated professionals whose work has helped shape and protect the landscapes we all cherish.

We stand with those impacted, honoring the invaluable contributions made by our public land stewards. Their service and dedication have long been the backbone of our shared outdoor heritage, and we remain steadfast in our support during these turbulent times.

At ORD, our mission is to uplift and strengthen the outdoor industry across New Mexico. As we move forward together, we invite you to join us at the upcoming Outdoor Recreation Day at the Roundhouse on Tuesday, March 18 , from 9 AM to 3 PM, where community and collaboration take center stage.

Additionally, from 11 AM to 12 PM in the Rotunda, we will host compelling conversations with youth outdoor enthusiasts and a discussion about the impact of partnerships between nonprofits and outdoor businesses.

Thank you all for your continued passion and commitment to the outdoors. We are confident that by uniting our efforts, we can navigate these challenges and build a stronger, more resilient future for our state’s outdoor community.

With gratitude,

Karina Armijo

Director

Statewide Support Initiatives for Laid Off Federal Workers

On February 24 , Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced that the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, in partnership with the State Personnel Office and the Economic Development Department, is launching comprehensive support initiatives to assist individuals recently separated from federal employment.

Read the press release for details.

Recruitment events are scheduled at America’s Job Center New Mexico locations on the following dates:

Feb. 28 – Albuquerque and Santa Fe, 2-5 p.m.

March 7 – Carlsbad and Las Cruces, 2-5 p.m.

In Other News

The transformative power of the Outdoor Equity Fund in New Mexico

Bill could streamline mountain rescues in NM

Cutting Public Lands Workforce Will Have Consequences for Outdoor Recreation

NM Legislative Recap Feb. 19: Students press lawmakers for a greener future

Get Involved

Asequias: The Legacy Lives On

Join Rio Grande Agricultural Land Trust for a free screening of this compelling documentary about NM’s enduring asequias. March 4 , at The Loma Theatre in Socorro. Watch the trailer .

American Trails Webinar

February 27 – Making Organizations Inclusive: Stories of Deaf Gain in the Outdoors

David Soules Conservation Memorial Scholarship

Nuestra Tierra seeks to award two New Mexico State University Students each with $1,000 to continue pursuing a conservation-related field of study. These funds can be used, at the student's discretion, for books, lab fees, housing, and other expenses related to being a student. Apply by March 7, 2025 .

Free Bike Shop Days

Velo Cruces and Doña Ana Village Association are offering free bike servicing and supplies! Join them on March 13 and April 10 from 4-6pm.

Free Climbing Camp

Friends of the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks is offering a free climbing camp in Las Cruces from March 17-20 for 3rd-5th graders.

Upcoming Cycling Events

Get outside for some competitive fun on your bike this spring!

March Volunteer Opportunities

March 1 – Horsethief Mesa Cleanup

March 7 - Santa Fe Public School's Bike Fleet Maintenance Day

March 8 – Socorro Bosque Maintenance

March 15 – Coronado Historic Site

March 20-24 – Mimbres River Trail Backpack

March 23 - Diablo Canyon Road Cleanup , Email rashcraft@blm.gov

Volunteer Trail Stewards Needed in Aztec, NM

ESCAPE 2025

New Mexico Search and Rescue Council will offer a variety of basic and advanced SAR skills classes from April 25-27 at Glorieta Adventure Camps. You can also donate new and used gear to their silent auction!

Email mckee07@gmail.com to make a donation.

Ranger-led tours at Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site

Weekly guided tours of the permanent exhibition at the Bosque Redondo Memorial will be offered with general admission to the site. Participants will also be guided on an outdoor tour of the grounds, visiting a flock of Navajo Churro sheep.

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.

Bluewater Lake State Park

Diné Bikéyah, Shiwinna (Zuni), Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute), Pueblos lands

About the Park: Nestled in a piñon-juniper landscape with breathtaking views of the Zuni Mountains, Bluewater Lake is perfect for camping, hiking, birding, and horseback riding. Anglers won’t want to miss out on some of the best tiger muskie fishing around! Located 25 miles west of Grants at 7,554 feet, it’s an ideal high-altitude getaway.

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

New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division is searching for a Grants Coordinator (search EDD #10114450) Applications are due by 11:59pm February 26 .

Gorham Scout Ranch is hiring for numerous seasonal positions in Chimayo

Field Institute of Taos is looking for youth leaders to hire for seasonal positions

Mountain…