PLEASE NOTE: VDS phone lines are down. Email is still working and the office can be reached through the on-call cell at 505-220-4489.
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.
Latest Information about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in New Mexico
As of Feb. 28, 2025, NMDA has detected HPAI in a non-commercial backyard poultry flock in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. For more information, dairy producers and poultry producers are encouraged to visit our HPAI webpage.
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 and New Mexico State University's wildfire resource page. 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.