New Mexico to invest $13.5M in trails, outdoor programs under FY27 budget
New Mexico will invest $13.5 million in trails, watershed projects and youth outdoor programs as part of the FY27 state budget.
Funding includes $10M for trail and infrastructure projects and $3.5M for youth outdoor access program
Organ Mountain News report
SANTA FE - New Mexico will invest $13.5 million in trails, watersheds and outdoor access projects as part of the FY27 state budget signed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, officials announced.
The funding supports the state’s outdoor recreation economy, which generates an estimated $3.6 billion annually.
The Outdoor Recreation Division of the state Economic Development Department will receive $3.5 million for its Outdoor Equity Fund, which provides grants to connect underserved youth with outdoor experiences.
The division will also receive $10 million for its Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant program. The funding will support community-led trail development, forest and watershed restoration, and infrastructure projects aimed at expanding recreational access and strengthening local economies.
“The outdoor recreation industry enhances the quality of life as well as the economies of communities throughout New Mexico,” Economic Development Department Secretary Rob Black said. “This funding fuels economic growth, creates jobs and career pathways, bringing new opportunities for everyone, especially our youth.”
“We deeply appreciate the governor and legislators for continuing to prioritize equitable access to New Mexico’s outdoors,” Outdoor Recreation Division Director Karina Armijo said. “This investment helps ensure that communities across the state — especially rural and Tribal communities — can access the economic, health and quality-of-life benefits that outdoor recreation provides.”
The Outdoor Recreation Division, created in 2019, has invested $8.7 million to connect more than 106,000 youth to outdoor programs through the Outdoor Equity Fund and $33.9 million in outdoor infrastructure projects through the Trails+ program, supporting an estimated 2,367 jobs.
More information about the programs and grant opportunities is available at NMOutside.com.
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