NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Better access to outdoor resources and improved trails could soon be coming to New Mexico, especially in more rural parts of the state. State outdoor leaders explain how the governor’s latest approvals will enhance recreation in New Mexico.
“And our entire statewide system was on the verge of collapse,” said Teal Harbin, New Mexico Search and Rescue Medical Coordinator.
During the latest legislative session, New Mexico Search and Rescue Medical Coordinator Teal Harbin advocated for a bill to enhance search and rescue (SARS) response times with a single phone call.
“I think it’ll save a lot of lives,” said Harbin.
And now it’s been signed into law. “This means that New Mexico, the outdoor community, is that much safer. Now, hopefully we will not have individuals waiting hours to days before search and rescue is notified through the state police,” said Harbin.
The new law is just one piece of a larger push to invest in outdoor recreation in the state of New Mexico. “So, it’s really uplifting communities,” said Karina Armijo, Director of the Outdoor Recreation Division.
On top of the search and rescue enhancement, other areas of the outdoor division are getting some much-needed funding. A record-breaking $13 million will go to the state’s outdoor recreation division. After the governor approved the budget created by legislators.
“We saw that there was a real demand for a lot of these projects and programs for the outdoor equity fund,” said Armijo.
Three million dollars will go to the fund which gives youth across the state, especially in rural areas, equal opportunity to experience the state’s outdoor recreation offerings. Providing young people with resources like transportation.
“It’s helping to level the playing ground and to make a safe environment and more inclusive environment for all,” said Harbin.
The remaining $10 million will go to outdoor recreation trails, bridge trail maintenance, restrooms, and more. “So, what’s significant is our state legislators, understanding the demand and allocating funds as an investment to our state for future, whether it’s stewards and workforce in the outdoor economy,” said Armijo.
The New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Rob Black called the funding a historic investment in quality of life, saying in a statement, “Investing in outdoor recreation is key to creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening communities, especially in rural and underserved areas.”
For more information about how you can apply for these grants and funds, and who is eligible go to nmoutside.com.
