SANTA FE, N.M. (Mar. 24, 2026) — New Mexico will invest $13.5 million in trails, watershed restoration and outdoor access initiatives as part of the state’s fiscal year 2027 budget, reinforcing the continued growth of its $3.6 billion outdoor recreation economy.
The funding, approved by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, will be administered through the Outdoor Recreation Division of the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD). The investment includes $10 million for the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant program and $3.5 million for the Outdoor Equity Fund, a nationally recognized initiative designed to connect underserved youth with outdoor experiences.
State officials emphasized that the funding will support community-driven trail development, forest and watershed restoration projects, and infrastructure improvements that expand access to outdoor destinations while strengthening local economies. The investment is expected to enhance quality of life, stimulate tourism activity and support job creation across both rural and urban communities.
Since its establishment in 2019, the Outdoor Recreation Division has invested $8.7 million through the Outdoor Equity Fund, helping connect more than 106,000 youth to outdoor programming. The division has also directed $33.9 million toward infrastructure projects under the Trails+ Grant program, supporting an estimated 2,367 jobs statewide.
Economic development leaders noted that continued investment in outdoor recreation strengthens New Mexico’s competitiveness as a destination for talent, tourism and business expansion. By prioritizing equitable access and community-focused development, the state aims to ensure long-term economic benefits tied to its natural assets.
Additional information on grant opportunities and outdoor recreation initiatives is available through the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Outdoor Recreation Division.
