New Mexico Sun


UNM study emphasizes swift replanting of conifer forests post-wildfires

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has disclosed that its scientists are undertaking experiments to comprehend the difficulties associated with reforestation in the semi-arid southwestern United States. This region often experiences low survival rates of conifer seedlings following wildfires. The research conducted by UNM Biology Ph.D. recipient Joseph Crockett and Professor Matthew Hurteau emphasizes the urgency for swift replanting of conifer forests after wildfires, given the impact of hot and dry conditions on seedling survival.


UNM College of Nursing welcomes diversity expert as visiting professor

UNM Health Sciences has announced that the University of New Mexico College of Nursing will host Margaret P. Moss, PhD, JD, RN, FAAN, as a visiting professor. Moss is an expert in social determinants of health (SDOH) and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).


UNM's Cosmiac honored with inaugural Space Valley Diversity in Business Champion Award

The University of New Mexico (UNM) recently revealed that the inaugural Space Valley Diversity in Business Champion Award, sponsored by the New Mexico Minority Business Development Agency, was awarded to COSMIAC. This organization is a space-related research center situated within the School of Engineering. In addition, IDEAS-TEK, a company specializing in embedded system design and software development, received recognition as the Minority-Owned Company of the Year.


UNM's Dr. Nina Wallerstein honored with Fulbright Specialist Program Award

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has announced that Dr. Nina Wallerstein has been awarded the Fulbright Specialist Program award by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. The purpose of this award is to foster enduring connections between the people of the United States and those of other countries through a flagship international educational exchange program.


Las Cruces Police Department names new Deputy Chief of Operations

The city of Las Cruces has announced that Chief Jeremy Story of the Las Cruces Police Department has appointed Lt. Eric Urenda as the new Deputy Chief of Operations. Lt. Urenda graduated from the department's 37th Academy in 2006 and has served as a commissioned officer since then.


Las Cruces minimum wage set to rise

The city of Las Cruces recently announced an upward adjustment in the minimum wage, increasing it from $12.00 to $12.36 per hour. The minimum hourly wage for tipped employees will also see a rise, moving up from $4.78 to $4.95 an hour. These adjustments are in accordance with the Las Cruces Municipal Code (LCMC), which impacts workers within the city.


Albuquerque releases free casita construction plans to promote affordable housing

The city of Albuquerque has announced that its Planning Department is now offering four distinct casita construction plan sets to the public, free of charge. Casitas, also known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), are compact housing units equipped with a kitchen, usually built as detached accessory buildings on residential lots.


New art exhibits debut at Branigan Cultural Center and Museum of Art in Las Cruces

The city of Las Cruces has unveiled two new exhibitions curated by The Las Cruces Museums, which delve into the intricate relationship between artists and the natural environment. "Connection : : Conjunto" is set to debut at the Branigan Cultural Center, while "The Desert Was Red and Red the Dust Was Raised" will be showcased at the Museum of Art.


NM Film Office reveals robust economic impact of film production tax credit

The New Mexico Film Office (NMFO) has published an updated economic impact study, emphasizing the significant economic return on investment (ROI) produced by the New Mexico Film Production Tax Credit. The research, which covers fiscal years 2020 to 2023, indicates an average economic ROI of 7.77 for the state.


Bernalillo County Youth Services Center prioritizes safety in operational management

Bernalillo County has announced that the Youth Service Center (YSC) is effectively managed and dedicated to maintaining necessary staffing levels. The YSC in Bernalillo County provides services to youth aged 12 to 18 who are awaiting court proceedings for alleged delinquent acts, offering housing and related services.


Grant awarded to Bernalillo County for South Valley Park enhancements

Bernalillo County has announced that it has been granted $410,000 by the State of New Mexico to advance enhancements to the Dolores Huerta Gateway Park. This initiative is a crucial part of the ongoing South Valley Main Street Program. The project, which supports a community-driven approach to corporate participation, aims to encourage economic growth and improve infrastructure, thereby strengthening the local community.


Environment Department proposes water reuse rule to WQCC

The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has formally presented a petition to the Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC), requesting a review of the proposed rule 20.6.8 NMAC Ground and Surface Water Protection – Supplemental Requirements for Water Reuse. The WQCC is expected to schedule a hearing for the proposed rule, where testimonies from Department staff and interested parties will be heard, marking an important stage in the regulatory process.


Nusenda's statewide toy drive benefits children across New Mexico

Nusenda Credit Union has recently announced its partnership with the UNM Children’s Hospital and Jardin de los Niños for a two-week toy drive. The credit union's members and employees have contributed toys and funds, amassing a collection of over 1,500 toys this year.


Environment Department grants $750,000+ to boost recycling and combat illegal dumping

The New Mexico Environment Department has recently disclosed the allocation of $751,489 from the Recycling and Illegal Dumping (RAID) grants for fiscal year 2024. The funds are set to be distributed among various communities, with the primary objective being to bolster trash removal efforts, curb illegal dumping, and initiate recycling programs. The beneficiaries will include communities, counties, solid waste authorities, and pueblos across the state, with many rural areas expected to reap significant benefits.


MIAC reveals winners of the 2024 Living Treasure and Legacy Award

The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs has announced that the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture (MIAC) has disclosed the recipients for the 2024 Living Treasure and Legacy Awards. These awards, integral to the annual MIAC Native Treasures Art Market, recognize the exceptional artistic contributions of Native American artists in the realm of Indigenous arts and culture.


HSD allocates $9 million for low-income families' utility assistance

The New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) has announced that it has secured an additional $9.2 million in funding from the Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP). The program is designed to assist low-income families with their home energy expenses.


UNM introduces quantum photonics graduate program supported by NSF grant

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has announced the launch of the Quantum Photonics and Quantum Technology (QPAQT) graduate program. The program, funded by a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), is part of the NRT-QL, Quantum Photonics Interdisciplinary Training to Advance Quantum Technologies, initiative.


APD regains oversight of use-of-force investigations

The city of Albuquerque has confirmed that the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) has regained control over use-of-force investigations. The External Force Investigation Team (EFIT), an external team, will continue to review backlogged cases under the Court-Approved Settlement Agreement in its ongoing investigative role.


New Mexico grants $1M for outdoor equity in 12 counties, 5 tribes

The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) has disclosed that the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division (ORD) is set to disburse $1 million in new Outdoor Equity Fund grants. The second round of distribution will benefit 30 organizations, school districts, and local governments across 12 counties and five Tribal communities, with a total of $1,052,347 being awarded.


NM Higher Education Department highlights milestones achieved in 2023

The New Mexico Higher Education Department (NMHED) has announced a series of significant achievements in 2023, spanning the sectors of education, healthcare, research, and workforce development. These accomplishments have had a profound impact across the state throughout the year.