Non-Local News Releases

PNM Actively Preparing for a Public Safety Power Shutoff for Today in Las Vegas

(Albuquerque, NM) – As of 10:30 a.m. today, PNM continues to prepare for severe weather forecasted for most our service area, including high wind speeds. Wind gusts are anticipated to reach over 50 mph throughout New Mexico, which could increase the risk of power outages due to broken tree limbs or other wind damage.

Increased chance of power outage throughout PNM service area

SOUTHWEST CATCHES OF THE WEEK

Bill Evans Lake: Sarah Jaurequi caught five largemouth bass, as well as this rainbow trout, using PowerBait on April 11.

 Order Number 03-03-02-25-05

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – April 17, 2025 – The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands will implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on all National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Mt. Taylor Ranger District as described per order 03-03-02-25-05 and as shown on the attached map.

This Order shall be in effect from Friday April 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM through Thursday July 31, 2025 at 2359, unless rescinded.

PNM continues to urge customers to prepare for weather-related outages due to high winds

(Albuquerque, NM) – In response to extreme fire conditions caused by prolonged dry weather, large amounts of fuel in wooded areas, warmer temperatures, low humidity, and increased winds PNM initiated a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in Las Vegas impacting 2,300 at 11:30 a.m. in an effort to prevent power lines from igniting a wildfire, protecting lives and communities.

 (Washington, D.C., April 16, 2025) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins wrapped up a visit to Lubbock, Texas, where she joined House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) for a tour and roundtable discussion at the USDA Cotton Classification Complex on the Texas Tech University campus. During the roundtable, she was joined by sorghum, beef, peanut, dairy, and corn producers as well as agricultural leaders from across Texas.

SANTA FE – Judge Jacqueline R. Medina is the new Chief Judge of the New Mexico Court of Appeals.

She is serving a two-year term, and succeeded Judge Jennifer L. Attrep, who held the position since 2023. The chief judge is the administrative authority over the 10-member court's budget, personnel and general operations, and continues to hear cases.

"It is a great honor and privilege to lead the Court of Appeals and work with its dedicated judges and staff for the people of New Mexico," said Chief Judge Medina.

Chief Judge Medina is the first native of Taos to serve on the Court of Appeals. She was elected to the court in 2018, and before that served for more than 16 years as an assistant attorney general. She was an assistant district attorney and Children's Court attorney early in her legal career.

Chief Judge Medina received her juris doctor (J.D.) from the University of New Mexico School of Law in 1991, and earned an undergraduate degree in political science at UNM.

Events across the state highlight theme of building a sustainable future

SANTA FE, NM – Multiple New Mexico State Parks are hosting Earth Day-related events during April, and everyone is invited. 

April 22 is the 55th anniversary of Earth Day, which is now recognized throughout the month. This year's theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," highlights the importance of renewable energy and continuing to work hard toward a sustainable future.

"Working toward a sustainable future is a priority for the Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham administration," said EMNRD Sec. Melanie Kenderdine. "That is why our state parks are enthusiastically supporting events that highlight this year's Earth Day theme."

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Economic Development Department, through its Office of Strategy, Science & Technology, has awarded $100,000 in competitive non-dilutive grant funding to Mesa Quantum Systems, Inc. in the inaugural round of the Quantum Technologies Award Pilot Program.

Launched in December 2024, the program is a competitive, state-funded grant awarding non-dilutive funds to early-stage companies working in quantum technologies located in New Mexico or establishing a presence with employees in New Mexico. Non-dilutive funding allows recipients to retain all equity in their company, which is particularly important for startups.