Santa Fe — The New Mexico Economic Development Department's Outdoor Recreation Division has awarded $2 million in the latest round of the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grants, supporting outdoor access, conservation, and economic vitality across the state.
The division is kicking off the FY26 grant cycle with an informational webinar on August 14.
Seven new projects were selected for funding in this latest round, including flood-damaged trail restoration, creating inclusive gathering spaces, and long-term conservation planning. These investments will increase access to outdoor recreation while supporting community health and local economies.
The $2 million awarded across six counties will more than double its local impact, bringing in 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. "These projects drive economic development through job creation and tourism, especially in our rural areas."
$7.2 million is targeted for distribution in the current fiscal year. Since 2020, the program has invested over $30 million across 30 counties and 11 Tribal communities.
Awarded projects in the latest round of grants include:
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers in Taos County was awarded $155,000 to improve wildlife habitat connectivity and recreational experiences through volunteer-led fence modification and removal in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
City of Farmington in San Juan County was awarded $500,000 for the Gateway Park Plaza that will feature river trails, open space, and a multi-use event plaza near the Animas River and the Farmington Museum.
Indigenous Futures 4EVER in San Juan County was awarded $500,000 for improvements to the Two Grey Hills Skatepark to increase safety and community use.
New Mexico Land Conservancy in Santa Fe County was awarded $99,500 to support the restoration of a one-mile hiking trail with native plants, erosion control, and educational signage at the Petchesky Conservation Center.
Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments in McKinley County was awarded $150,000 to create a regional Outdoor Recreation & Conservation Master Plan that will coordinate efforts to strengthen the recreation economy across McKinley and Cibola Counties.
Rio Grande School in Santa Fe County was awarded $90,000 for an outdoor learning space, hosting nature-based educational and teacher development.
Village of Ruidoso in Lincoln County was awarded $497,970 to rehabilitate flood-damaged walking trails at Two Rivers Park.
Applications for the first round of FY26 are due by September 30. A second round will open on November 1 and close January 31, 2026. Interested applicants can visit www.NMOutside.com.
