The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is open for business while the former NMDA Headquarters Building – located at 3190 S. Espina – is being demolished and a new building is being constructed in its place. During this time, the majority of NMDA offices are located across from Espina St. at the Physical Science Laboratory/Clinton P. Anderson Hall at 1050 Stewart St. Please see the building and parking map below, or call 575-646-3007 for more information. The State Chemist Lab is located at 975 Agriculture Way. The State Seed Lab, State Metrology Lab and State Petroleum Lab are located at 973 Agriculture Way. To reach any of the labs, please call 575-646-1551.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle in New Mexico. This was confirmed through the testing of clinical samples from sick cattle. USDA has confirmed that dairy products remain safe to consume. Pasteurization (high heat treatment) kills harmful microbes and pathogens in milk, including the influenza virus. For more information and guidance on HPAI in dairy cattle, visit our resource page. For information about HPAI in poultry, visit our resource page.
The New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) is monitoring the avian influenza (HPAI) situation in the state and would like to help ensure a safe fair season by providing guidelines for fair boards, Extension agents and FFA teachers. Since fair season starts in July and runs through October, it is important to note that the status and/or situation can change at any time, and updates to the guidelines may need to be made and followed accordingly to help reduce spread. For more information, visit the NMLB website.
Healthy Soil Program
The New Mexico Department of Agriculture's Healthy Soil Program Fiscal Year 2025 grant application period for Individual Applicants and Eligible Entities closed April 26. This application period was for projects starting on or after Aug. 1, 2024 and ending no later than May 24, 2025. Projects awarded grant funding must address one or more identified soil health-related resource concerns by implementing one or more of the five soil health principles. Visit the Healthy Soil Program webpage for more information and to subscribe for program updates.
Soil Health
Learn all about healthy soil by reading the Soil Health: What it is and Why it Matters publication featuring articles from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and many of its partners. Kids will enjoy a fun activity from New Mexico Ag in the Classroom.
Agricultural Workforce Development Program
New Mexico-based agricultural businesses may apply for internship funding through the NMDA’s Agricultural Workforce Development Program beginning June 17, 2024. The program aims to create opportunities for young and beginning farmers and ranchers, including students, to gain work experience in agriculture that can turn into careers and thus support New Mexico’s agricultural future. The program provides incentives to New Mexico agricultural businesses to hire interns. The application period will remain open until funds are fully allocated or by March 31, 2025, whichever comes first. Funds will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for use after July 1, 2024, and must be fully expended by May 31, 2025. Visit the Agricultural Workforce Development Program web page for details regarding the program’s criteria, requirements, allowable expenses, application process and intern eligibility.
Wildfire Information
For the latest information about recovery resources for those affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires in the Ruidoso area, please visit the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website.
Wildfire preparedness is year-round! New Mexicans – including farmers and ranchers – are encouraged to be prepared and learn about reducing wildfire risks. Peak fire season in New Mexico typically begins in early May and runs through June, although the state can experience fire danger throughout the year. For information related to wildfires and fire restrictions in the state, visit the New Mexico Fire Information website. For fire prevention resources, visit the New Mexico Forestry Division - New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources website. If you've been affected by the 2022 Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon fires and floods, visit the Post-Wildfire Resource Hub.
Drought Resources for Agricultural Producers
New Mexico’s drought intensity levels remain at abnormally dry, severe or extreme, according to the most recent U.S. Drought Monitor. The Southwest Border Food Protection and Emergency Preparedness Center at New Mexico State University and the New Mexico Department of Agriculture remind producers of the seriousness of the drought situation. Producers are encouraged to visit the new drought resources page, which includes information about and links to various resources at the local, state, federal and university levels.
