New Mexico and the greater Southwest are home to wildlife populations that thrive in our varied ecosystems, from mountains to high desert to unique grassland habitats. According to the Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico has the 4th highest native species richness in the nation, and counts 90 species that are known to live only in our state.

However, our wildlife species are at risk, as the planet is experiencing a global extinction crisis. A 2018 report from the World Wildlife Fund found that 60% of mammals, birds, fish and reptiles have been wiped out since 1970, putting the future of our global ecosystem in jeopardy. This crisis is being driven by a combination of unchecked human development, poor habitat and forest management practices, extractive industry, habitat destruction, and the impacts of climate change. In New Mexico alone, the Department of Game & Fish reports that there are 116 animals on the threatened and endangered species list, and numerous plant species are in jeopardy.

At the same time, increased pressure for expansion of residential development along with industrial and extractive industry have continued to push vital ecosystems and wildlife habitat to the brink. This has created conditions that have exacerbated the impacts of climate change, like devastating forest fires in the Southwest, and recklessly bolstered permanent development of public lands that are home to critical wildlife and fragile ecosystems. It is clear that aggressive and immediate action on climate change and protection of remaining land and water resources are critical to the survival of our state’s wildlife.

Slowly, New Mexico is recognizing the tremendous benefits of protecting our natural assets, like our wildlife. Outdoor recreation is a multi-billion dollar industry in New Mexico. Economic studies show that more than $1 billion annually is spent directly on wildlife-associated recreation, and an additional $1 billion is spent on non-wildlife related outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing. The recent creation of the Division of Outdoor Recreation by the Lujan Grisham administration is an impressive step toward leveraging this industry and generating jobs in a way that protects what makes our state unique. The division includes the first-ever Outdoor Equity Fund that ensures New Mexico’s youth experience the land their culture is tied to while also providing opportunities to boost rural economies.

Add to that the booming film industry that thrives on our scenic beauty, and we have every reason in the world to take action to ensure that we don’t jeopardize either our economic opportunity or our legacy for our children and grandchildren.