The New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Outdoor Recreation Division has recently announced the allocation of $2 million through its Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grants program. This initiative aims to enhance outdoor access, conservation efforts, and boost the economic vitality of communities throughout the state. As part of the FY26 grant cycle’s commencement, an informational webinar is scheduled for August 14 to provide insights into the grant application process and objectives.
This latest round of funding includes support for seven diverse projects, ranging from restoration of trails damaged by flooding to the creation of inclusive community gathering spaces and the development of long-term conservation plans. The overarching goal is to facilitate greater access to outdoor recreation, which in turn supports community health and bolsters local economies.
The $2 million grant will have a substantial impact across six counties, leveraging an additional $2.7 million in matching funds. “Outdoor infrastructure projects build lasting value in communities across the state while preserving the natural beauty that makes New Mexico so special,” said Economic Development Department Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. He added that these projects play a crucial role in driving economic development through job creation and tourism, particularly benefiting rural areas.
In the current fiscal year, the state aims to distribute a total of $7.2 million under this program. Since its inception in 2020, the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grants program has invested over $30 million across 30 counties and 11 Tribal communities, significantly enhancing the state’s outdoor infrastructure and recreational offerings.
Details of the awarded projects include:
- Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (Taos County): This project received $155,000 to improve wildlife habitat connectivity and enhance recreational experiences through volunteer-led efforts in fence modification and removal within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
- City of Farmington (San Juan County): With an award of $500,000, the city will develop the Gateway Park Plaza. This initiative will feature river trails, open spaces, and a multi-use event plaza located near the Animas River and the Farmington Museum, aimed at enriching the local community’s recreational landscape.
- Indigenous Futures 4EVER (San Juan County): This project was granted $500,000 to enhance the Two Grey Hills Skatepark, focusing on increased safety and community utilization through comprehensive improvements.
- New Mexico Land Conservancy (Santa Fe County): Awarded $99,500, this project involves restoring a one-mile hiking trail with native plantings, erosion control measures, and educational signage at the Petchesky Conservation Center, contributing to environmental education and conservation efforts.
- Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments (McKinley County): This initiative, receiving $150,000, is set to develop a regional Outdoor Recreation & Conservation Master Plan. This plan will coordinate various efforts to strengthen the recreation economy across McKinley and Cibola Counties.
- Rio Grande School (Santa Fe County): With a grant of $90,000, this project will create an outdoor learning space, serving as a venue for nature-based educational programs and teacher development workshops.
- Village of Ruidoso (Lincoln County): A grant of $497,970 will be used to rehabilitate flood-damaged walking trails at Two Rivers Park, restoring accessibility and enhancing the community’s outdoor experience.
Applications for the first round of the FY26 grants are due by September 30, with a second round opening on November 1 and closing on January 31, 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit www.NMOutside.com for more information and to apply for funding.
The continued investment in New Mexico’s outdoor recreation infrastructure not only supports environmental conservation and public health but also fortifies the economic fabric of the state’s diverse communities, ensuring that the natural beauty of New Mexico remains accessible and cherished for generations to come.
Source: EDD
