Non-Local News Releases

SANTA FE, N.M. – The Bureau of Land Management New Mexico State Office today announced an oil and gas lease sale scheduled for May 22, 2025, to offer three oil and gas parcels totaling 1,261 acres in New Mexico.

The BLM completed scoping on these parcels in August 2024 and held a public comment period that closed in November 2024 on the parcels and the related environmental analysis. A 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input opened today and will close March 26, 2025.

Leasing is the first step in the process to develop federal oil and gas resources. Before development operations can begin, an operator must submit an application for permit to drill detailing development plans. The BLM reviews applications for permits to drill, posts them for public review, conducts an environmental analysis and coordinates with state partners and stakeholders.

ALBUQUERQUE, FEBRUARY 24—The Republican Party of New Mexico seeks to present a clear picture that does not demonize Border Patrol or heighten fear in our communities following an incident on February 21, 2025, involving U.S. Border Patrol agents and a charter bus carrying Las Cruces High School students. The school bus, described as being unmarked without school decals, was stopped at a routine checkpoint on Interstate 25 in the El Paso sector. Due to its unmarked nature, agents conducted a standard immigration inspection, confirmed all passengers were legally present, and departed without incident, as reported by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

The Republican Party of New Mexico extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Mark Gwinn. A steadfast supporter of our party and a dedicated servant to the people of New Mexico, Mark's lifelong commitment to public service enriched our community and strengthened our shared values.

Mark served with distinction as the first active ward chair in Valencia County and as Mayor of Rio Communities, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and civic responsibility. His tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have inspired many within our party and beyond.

Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time, especially his daughter, Tina Dzuik, New Mexico National Committee Woman, whose own commitment to public service continues to honor his legacy. We stand united in mourning his loss and in celebrating the life of a man who exemplified true service to his community and state.

Rest in peace, Mark Gwinn. Your contributions will always be remembered.

February 24, 2025

Santa Fe, NM – On Friday, February 21, the New Mexico Association of Non-Public Schools (NMANS) hosted a legislative breakfast at the State Capitol, bringing together non-public school leaders from across New Mexico. The event aimed to engage school leaders in discussions surrounding legislation that impacts non-public schools and encourage direct engagement with lawmakers.

Representative Rebecca Dow and Senator Craig Brandt were key speakers at the event, sharing their insights on current legislation they are closely following. The event highlighted the diversity of school leaders attending, with representatives from a wide range of schools serving areas such as Las Cruces, Gallup, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, the Navajo Nation, and the Pueblos of Zuni and Acoma. The discussions focused on the importance of providing families with educational options that meet their children's unique needs.

The state Supreme Court today issued an order for Albuquerque attorney Thomas Clear III to "show cause" why he should not be disbarred from the practice law for conduct outlined in a plea agreement to federal charges involving the handling of DWI cases. Click here to view the order in S-1-SC-40766, In the Matter of Thomas Clear III.

In all construction zones, motorists are asked to reduce speed, obey posted signs, and use extreme caution, as well as continue to be cautious of heavy equipment and construction personnel in the area. PLEASE NOTE: Conditions are subject to change without notice. Double fines for speeding in work zones may be in effect.

White Sands Missile Range Notification
For information regarding closures, you may call WSMR at 678-1178 or 678-2222 for updates.

Free assistance on land damaged in South Fork and Salt Fires

SANTA FE – Contractors hired by the New Mexico Forestry Division are helping Ruidoso-area landowners restore acres of forests and watersheds that were damaged by last summer's South Fork and Salt fires.

This work, which includes removing hazardous trees and erecting erosion control barriers, is designed to mitigate the risks from dead or dying trees as well as future flooding due to scorched soil and terrain in the area.

Beyond these environmental effects, the South Fork and Salt fires destroyed or badly damaged more than 1,100 homes, including about 230 lost in post-fire flooding that also caused massive damage to surrounding landscape.

SANTA FE, N.M – The Bureau of Land Management New Mexico State Office leased seven parcels totaling 1,317.29 acres for $20,671,801 in total receipts for its quarterly oil and gas lease sale. The combined bonus bids and rentals from the lease will be distributed between the federal government and the State of New Mexico.

Oil and gas lease sales support domestic energy production and American energy independence, while contributing to the nation's economic and military security. Consistent with Executive Order 14154, "Unleashing American Energy," the BLM's lease sales help meet the energy needs of U.S. citizens and solidify the nation as a global energy leader long into the future.