The New Mexico State Game Commission operates in an oversight capacity.
The New Mexico Legislature created a three-member State Game Commission in 1921. The commission eventually became a seven-member citizens’ body that sets hunting and fishing regulations, hires the Department of Game and Fish director, oversees spending of a more than $35 million annual budget, and sets the department’s overall direction.
Commission members are appointed to up to four-year terms by the governor and confirmed by the State Senate. Not more than four members can be from the same political party. At least one member of the commission shall represent agricultural interests and one member represent conservation interests.
Geographic: One member shall be appointed from each of five districts, and the remaining two members shall be appointed at-large.
Political party: Not more than four members shall be of the same political party at the time of their appointment.
Agricultural representative: At least one member of the commission shall manage and operate a farm or ranch that contains at least two species of wildlife.
Conservation/wildlife advocate: At least one member shall have a demonstrated history of involvement in wildlife and habitat protection issues and whose activities or occupation are not in conflict with wildlife and habitat advocacy.
As of mid-2021, 5 members are consumptive users and 3 seats are occupied by men.
America’s Wildlife Values was an extensive 2018 nationwide survey led by Colorado State University of public attitudes towards wildlife. Findings were compared with a 2004 survey to identify trends. Researchers also surveyed personnel at state wildlife agencies. Reports are available for national, state and agency results. (Some state agencies did not participate.)
America's Wildlife Values was an extensive 2018 nationwide survey led by Colorado State University of public attitudes towards wildlife. Findings were compared with a 2004 survey to identify trends. Researchers also surveyed personnel at state wildlife agencies. Reports are available for national, state and agency results. (Some state agencies did not participate.)
