Due to Heavy Equipment Hazards and Removal

Order Number 03-03-03-24-14

Albuquerque, NM, October 3, 2024 – The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands (NF&NGs) has issued a closure order (Order 03-03-03-24-14) for National Forest System (NFS) areas and roads in the Magdalena Ranger District, Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands, described below and shown on the attached map. This Order shall be in effect from October 4, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. through October 22, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. unless rescinded. The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety from post-accident hazards and removal of a large piece of equipment overturned on a steep slope above a trail.

Santa Fe, N.M - October 3rd, 2024 – In New Mexico, the fall season traditionally marks the beginning of prescribed burning operations by various land management agencies and private landowners. During this period, the public can anticipate increased visibility of smoke in certain areas as fuel treatment activities are implemented. These controlled burns are part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the risk of wildfires and enhance ecosystem resilience. By reducing hazardous fuel loads and restoring natural fire regimes, these efforts aim to safeguard communities and promote long-term ecological health across the state's diverse landscapes.

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (October 1, 2024) – The 21st suborbital space flight by Colorado-based UP Aerospace from the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport launched at 7:09 a.m. local time Tuesday (Oct. 1, 2024).

"We congratulate UP Aerospace on this spectacular and successful space launch," said Scott McLaughlin, Executive Director of the New Mexico Spaceport Authority. "It was quite beautiful, taking place just as the sun was rising over the quiet desert. We know how important this launch was to UP and its payload customers, some of which are from right here in New Mexico."

This evening begins Rosh Hashanah, also known as Yom Teruah, which is the beginning of the Jewish new year and the first of the Jewish High Holy Days. It is celebrated with feasting, shofar blasts and prayers for reconnection with God. 

May this new year bring an end to the antisemitism in our country, a safe return of all the hostages and peace in Israel and the Middle East. 

Order Number 03-03-02-24-12

Albuquerque, NM, October 2, 2024 – A Temporary Area Closure Order (03-03-02-24-12) has been reissued within the Mt. Taylor Ranger District, Cibola National Forest, McKinley County, New Mexico. The previously announced launch dates of Sept 25 and 28 were postponed by White Sands Missile Range. A launch is tentatively rescheduled for Saturday, Oct 5 with a backup date of Sunday Oct 13 requiring an area closure order within the Mt Taylor Ranger District.

We want to hear from you!

SANTA TERESA – The New Mexico Department of Transportation held its 2nd public involvement meeting to introduce the purpose and needed improvements to the NM 136 Interchange in Dona Ana County, NM. If you missed the meeting, it's not too late!

What is the purpose?

The objective of the study is to improve operational and safety issues, increase mobility, and enhance economic development.

SANTA TERESA, NM – Between October 8th and 14th, the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission will conduct an aerial geographical survey using a low-flying helicopter near La Union, Santa Teresa, and Sunland Park as part of its effort to map subsurface aquifers in the area to improve understanding of available groundwater resources. Improved understanding of available groundwater resources will aid sustainable groundwater use efforts in the region.

During the geographical survey, instruments suspended below a helicopter, approximately 100 feet above the ground, will collect subsurface measurements along pre-planned flight lines. Measurements are made by creating an electromagnetic signal that interacts with the geologic materials beneath the land surface, stimulating a response from those materials and generating a signal that is picked up by receivers. When combined with well data and knowledge of the geology, this geophysical data can produce a three-dimensional picture of the geographic extent of sands, gravels, and clays that make up the aquifers of the regional groundwater system.

Statewide, NM - State Police will be conducting sobriety checkpoints, saturation
patrols; and registration, insurance, and driver's license checkpoints in all New
Mexico counties during October 2024.

We are bringing awareness to these events to reduce impaired driving-related fatalities through continued media attention and intensive advertising.

These checkpoints are helping to change society's attitude about driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.