Friday, October 25, 2019 – The New Mexico State Game Commission voted today to rejoin the Mexican Gray Wolf Recovery Program including becoming a signatory to the Cooperating Agencies MOU and engaging in on the ground management activities. The state game commission voted in 2011 to leave the program during a change in leadership at the state level.

The state’s abrupt exit from the program left it short staffed, endangering wolves and making it more difficult for New Mexico landowners to get the timely assistance and support needed to coexist with the wolves. Furthermore, the Mexican wolf is listed as an endangered species under state law, requiring the state to support its recovery.

Research conducted in 2008 and 2010 indicates that 69% of New Mexican voters support the reintroduction of wolves in the state and 80% believe the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service should make every effort to help wolves recover and prevent extinction. By rejoining the Mexican Gray Wolf Recovery Program, New Mexico State Game Commission is signaling their support of Mexican wolves and New Mexico residents.