Non-Local News Releases

SANTA FE — Today, the New Mexico Economic Development Department announced $2.3 million in grants were awarded to improve access to the outdoors and boost economic opportunity across 14 counties.

EDD's Outdoor Recreation Division is closing out FY25 with a fourth and final round of Trails+ Grant funding that will create an estimated 169 jobs and support a diverse range of projects statewide.

"These projects will stimulate our outdoor economy and enhance our quality of life through expanded access to nature," EDD Cabinet Secretary Rob Black said. "From public safety and ADA trail enhancements to fire-damaged trail restoration, this funding will benefit communities in every corner of the state."

South Peak Fire Update

Reported start date / time:    May 7, 2025, 3:45pm

Cause: Unknown        

 Size: 0.1 acres

Location: Sandia Ranger District - East side of Sandia Mountains, East of South Peak

Resources on enroute: Type 3 Helicopter, 2 Type 6 USFS Engines

Strategy: The strategy for the South Peak Fire is full suppression.

(Washington, D.C., May 7, 2025) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today held the inaugural Farmers First roundtable at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Secretary Rollins hosted Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, the Board of Directors for the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), and over 20 farmers and ranchers from 11 states who run smaller-scale, independent, family-owned operations. These operations are at the heart of American agriculture and their continued success is critical for the economic viability of the industry.

May 19–22 & May 27-29

 Order Number 03-03-02-25-06

Albuquerque, NM, May 7, 2025 – A temporary area, roads, and trails closure order (03-03-02-25-06) has been issued within the Mt. Taylor Ranger District, Cibola National Forest, McKinley County, New Mexico.

This closure order shall be in effect from May 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM, through May 22, 2025, at 4 PM, and May 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM, through May 29, 2025, at 4 PM. unless rescinded. 

The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety during the U.S. Army's planned missile test launch, including pre-launch periods, near the Fort Wingate Army Depot. 

  Washington, D.C., May 6, 2025 — Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will require States to make certain all records associated with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and allotments are shared with the federal government.

"President Trump is rightfully requiring the federal government to have access to all programs it funds," said Secretary Rollins, "and SNAP is no exception. For years, this program has been on autopilot, with no USDA insight into real-time data. The Department is focused on appropriate and lawful participation in SNAP, and today's request is one of many steps to ensure SNAP is preserved for only those eligible."

The FBI and Albuquerque Police Department are asking for the public's help to identify a man who robbed BMO Bank at 5401 Central Ave NE, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at approximately 12pm. 

Suspect description:

Race: White

Height: 5'10"- 6'0"

Build: Thin

Clothing: Black pants, black shoes, black hoodie, black hat

Other: described to have red or light-colored facial hair 

The suspect entered the bank and demanded cash from a teller, who handed over an undisclosed amount of money to the robber. He was observed leaving the bank on foot going eastbound then northbound on Madeira Dr.

SANTA FE, NM – The New Mexico Tourism Department (NMTD) is offering a new extension to the department's Destination Forward Program that focuses on improving accessibility at tourism-related facilities.

NMTD recently announced the creation of the Destination Forward Accessibility Pilot Grant which offers up a special $100,000 fund to exclusively support the construction and installation of universal changing tables in qualified facilities.

This special grant opportunity is designed to help empower New Mexico communities to become inclusive and welcoming destinations and enhance accessibility for tourism in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. NMTD will award projects that are designed to help make travel more accessible for people with disabilities and their caregivers by increasing public restroom access.

(Washington, D.C., May 6, 2025) – U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced $23 million in grants to support transporting hazardous fuels – such as dead or downed trees – from national forests to processing facilities. Through the USDA Forest Service's Hazardous Fuels Transportation Program, these grants will reduce the hazardous fuels that pose wildfire threats to communities, critical infrastructure and recreation areas.

"President Trump has directed his cabinet to unleash domestic production of our natural resources, including timber. Our nation is blessed with an abundance of resources and there is no reason we cannot responsibly harvest and use these products right here at home. Investments like these are delivering on our commitment to protect communities, make forests healthier and more resilient," said Secretary Rollins. "Removing hazardous fuels not only reduces wildfire risk but also creates opportunities for businesses and workers in the wood products industry. These grants also reflect the Forest Service's dedication to active forest management, and we will continue working to keep our forests productive, sustainable, and safe for future generations."