$37 million available to expand, restore New Mexico’s public lands
SANTA FE — New Mexicans will soon have more places to hike, fish, hunt and explore, as the state makes $37 million available to expand public lands.
Beginning today, the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) will accept proposals for projects that create, expand, or restore public lands. Each project must involve a willing seller of land or an interest in land, such as a conservation easement, for public use and natural resource protection.
“Every acre of public land we protect or create today is for future generations of New Mexicans,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “This investment ensures our families continue to have places to hike, camp, fish, and connect with the land we all call home.”
“This unique funding gives communities a meaningful opportunity to expand access to public lands and protect the natural resources that make New Mexico special,” said DFA Sec. Wayne Propst. “We're looking for proposals that will make a lasting difference.”
To qualify, projects must:
• Involve a willing seller
• Protect or restore natural resources or ecosystems
• Provide for public access
Every project must name a state, local or Tribal government entity that will receive the land and take on long-term management responsibilities. Funding cannot be used for recurring costs, and projects that expand New Mexico's total public land will be prioritized over those focused on restoring land that's already public.
Full evaluation criteria and submission instructions are on DFA's website.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. MDT on August 21, 2026. DFA will notify selected recipients this fall.
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