New Mexico Department of Wildlife Attn: Elk Rule Public Comment 

Subject: Public Comment on Proposed Elk Rule Changes (2026) Dear Commissioners and Department Staff,

On behalf of the New Mexico chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we appreciate the opportunity to provide input on the proposed elk rule changes.

The framework outlined in the proposed changes reflects a thoughtful approach to maintaining sustainable harvest, adapting to herd dynamics, and improving consistency across hunt structures. Efforts to evaluate season timing, adjust license allocations based on biological conditions, and reassess public and private land distribution are important steps forward.

As an organization representing public land hunters, we are supportive of modernization efforts that improve accountability and transparency. At the same time, we believe it is critical that these changes reinforce fair chase, equitable opportunity, and public trust in how elk hunting opportunity is allocated.

E-Tagging and License Timing

We support the Department’s move toward requiring license purchase prior to hunting. However, we strongly recommend adopting a minimum two-day (48-hour) advance purchase requirement for e-tags rather than allowing same-day authorization.

A two-day requirement:

•   Reduces the potential for real-time tracking and opportunistic harvest tied to immediate elk movement

•  Upholds fair chase principles across both public and private land hunters

•  Provides a clearer and more enforceable regulatory framework

•  Avoids creating a perception that hunting opportunity, particularly on private land, can be

  activated on demand

  We recognize that some stakeholders are advocating for shorter timelines, but we believe a two-day requirement represents a reasonable and balanced approach.

  Alignment of Public and Private Land Hunt Dates

  We support the Department’s consideration of aligning hunt season start dates across management zones, particularly in GMUs that contain both Primary and Secondary Management Zones.

  We further encourage the Department to ensure that private land authorizations within the Primary Management Zone operate within the same general seasonal frameworks as public draw hunts.

  Aligning these dates:

• Reinforces equitable opportunity between public and private land hunters

•  Reduces the perception of extended or preferential seasons tied to landownership

•  Strengthens public confidence in the EPLUS system

•  Supports consistent biological management across shared herd units

  Public Trust and Transparency

  As the Department evaluates potential adjustments to management zone boundaries and the public/private land allocation, transparency will be essential.

  We encourage continued public reporting on:

• Tag allocation methodologies

•  Landowner participation and habitat contributions

• Harvest outcomes across management zones

  Maintaining clarity in how opportunity is distributed will help ensure long-term trust in the system.

  We appreciate the Department’s willingness to engage with the public and consider input throughout this process, and we look forward to continued collaboration.

 

New Mexico Department of Wildlife Attn: Pronghorn Rule Public Comment 

Subject: Public Comment on Proposed Pronghorn Rule Changes (2026) Dear Commissioners and Department Staff,

On behalf of the New Mexico chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we appreciate the opportunity to provide input on the proposed pronghorn rule changes. We value the Department’s continued work to manage pronghorn populations while adapting to changing conditions across the state.

As an organization representing public land hunters, we are supportive of efforts that improve transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

In parts of northeastern New Mexico, we have observed declines in fawn recruitment in recent years. When conditions shift in this way, it becomes increasingly important that management tools provide clear visibility into harvest and allow the Department to respond effectively at a regional level.

The current structure, in which private land opportunity can expand with limited visibility or constraint, is increasingly difficult to justify, particularly in areas where herd conditions are changing significantly. Without clear tracking and accountability, the Department’s ability to understand and manage harvest at a meaningful scale is limited.

Private Land Licensing Structure

We support the Department’s evaluation of a ranch registration system for private land pronghorn licenses.

A registration system:

• Improves visibility into where harvest is occurring

• Provides a clearer understanding of hunting pressure across the landscape

• Creates a framework for future management adjustments if needed

• Supports more consistent application of regulations across private lands

  We also support the Department’s consideration of caps on private land OTC licenses

  Establishing caps:

• Helps ensure harvest remains aligned with current herd conditions

• Prevents unchecked expansion of opportunity in areas under pressure

• Provides a tool to respond more quickly to changing conditions

• Reinforces fairness between public and private land opportunity

  License Numbers and Season Structure

  We support adjustments to license numbers to reflect current pronghorn herd dynamics.

  We also support thoughtful adjustments to season dates to improve consistency and better align with regional conditions across the state.

  These efforts:

• Improve clarity for hunters

• Support consistent management across GMUs

• Allow the Department to better match opportunity with on-the-ground conditions

  Harvest Reporting and System Modernization

  As the Department considers changes to license purchase timing and system structure, we encourage continued focus on improving harvest reporting.

  Strengthening reporting systems:

• Provides more timely and reliable data

• Improves the Department’s ability to respond during and between seasons

• Increases transparency for the public

• Supports long-term confidence in management decisions

  New Mexico’s pronghorn are a public resource, and the systems that govern access to that resource should remain transparent, responsive, and fair.

  We appreciate the Department’s willingness to engage with the public and consider input throughout this process, and we look forward to continued collaboration.

  Respectfully,   Kyle Klain

• Policy Chair

  New Mexico Chapter Backcountry Hunters & Anglers

• Submit your commments to the Department of Wildlife