Solicitation of Applications for Public Land Projects
Funding of Eligible Projects
The New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) is leading the State’s efforts to utilize funding appropriated this year “for land or an interest in land for the creation, expansion, or restoration of land.” See Section 5, item 201 of House Bill 2 (2026), page 215. Through this Solicitation of Applications we are seeking proposals of eligible projects that create, expand and/or restore public lands across New Mexico. DFA is administering $37 million for this new, non-recurring program.
Eligible projects must involve voluntary transactions with willing sellers that are ready to proceed if selected for this funding opportunity; protect or restore natural resources and/or ecosystems; and provide for public access. Proposed projects must identify a State, local or Tribal government entity who will be the recipient of the land (or interest in land) and be responsible for any ongoing land management responsibilities. The funds available through this Solicitation of Applications cannot be used for recurring costs. Projects that increase the total acreage of public lands in New Mexico will be prioritized over projects that propose to utilize funds to carry out natural resource restoration activities on existing public lands.
Detailed evaluation criteria and instructions are including in the Solicitation of Applications, available below.
Applications must be received by 5pm MDT on August 21, 2026.
DFA will notify selected funding recipients this Fall.
Download the Solicitation of Applications to review application requirements and eligibility criteria.
DFA invites members of the public, local governments, Tribes, nonprofit organizations, and other interested entities, in partnership with a State, local or Tribal governmental entity, to submit project proposals.