New Mexico Department of Wildlife

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife is the state agency responsible for conserving and managing wildlife and fish across New Mexico. It issues hunting and fishing licenses, stocks fish, enforces conservation laws and works with landowners and other agencies to improve habitat. Its public education programs include hunter safety courses, fishing clinics and school outreach. The department also administers the state’s off-highway vehicle program, including safety training and permits. Headquartered in Santa Fe, it operates regional offices, hatcheries and wildlife management areas, with funding from license sales and federal wildlife-restoration programs. Formerly the Department of Game and Fish, it adopted its current name in July 2026.