The Outdoor Recreation Division (ORD) of the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) announced the round 3 Trails+ Grant recipients. The projects awarded will expand equitable access to the outdoors and grow New Mexico’s outdoor recreation economy. Round 3 awards totaled $1,611,743 for 12 projects, bringing in an additional $1,567,237 in matching funding. About 75% of the awarded projects are supporting rural and Tribal communities. Since its establishment, the Trails+ program has awarded $13,243,478 to 134 projects in 26 counties across the state.

The Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant program was created in 2019 to support community projects that enhance outdoor recreation opportunities, such as trail systems, signage, outdoor classrooms, and wildlife viewing areas. New Mexico’s outdoor industry employs over 28,000 people and contributes $2.4 billion annually to the state GDP.

Round 4 of the Trails+ Grant applications will be open until March 31, 2024, followed by Round 5, which must be submitted by May 31, 2024. During this year’s legislative session, an additional $10 million was designated for FY25 Trails+ Grants and ORD aims to distribute this impressive level of funding to every community in New Mexico.

The division also highlighted several projects that have benefited from the grant. These include improved trail connectivity in Doña Ana County, extended pathway for the New Mexico Wildlife Center, and the creation of an outdoor classroom and performance space at the Keshet Center for the Arts.

Future Grant applicants seeking additional information can email ORD Outdoor Recreation Planner Carl Colonius at carl.colonius@edd.nm.gov or call 505-570-7846.

For those seeking to connect with EDD on matters other than the Trails+ Grant, or to understand more about their support in terms of unemployment or family-led benefits, you can visit eddcaller.com. This platform provides useful information on hair to contact edd and get other relevant support.