New Mexico Sun

Today, the New Mexico Drought Task Force convened following Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's executive order issued on May 22, 2025. The order declared a state of emergency due to severe drought and increasing fire risk across the state.

The directive calls for immediate action by state agencies to address both drought impacts and wildfire threats. "Despite some spring precipitation, almost all of New Mexico remains in conditions that threaten water supplies and elevate fire danger," stated Lujan Grisham. She emphasized the need for decisive action to conserve water and reduce wildfire risk.

The task force, led by State Engineer Elizabeth Anderson, is responsible for coordinating response efforts among more than ten state agencies. Their duties include disseminating information to help communities respond to drought, recommending short-term actions by July 31, and sharing funding sources to assist individuals and local governments in dealing with drought conditions.

Governor Lujan Grisham also urged local governments to implement water use restrictions and other fire prevention measures. "New Mexico’s river basins have seen below-average precipitation this year, and our reservoir levels are among the lowest on record," said Anderson. She praised the governor's leadership in calling for a coordinated response.

State Forester Laura McCarthy highlighted the ongoing threat of wildfires due to persistent drought conditions. "Over the past two years, we’ve seen some of the worst wildfires in our state’s history," she noted. McCarthy described the executive order as a critical call to action for all residents of New Mexico.

The Drought Task Force includes representatives from various departments such as Agriculture, Economic Development, Environment, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Indian Affairs, Tourism, as well as commissions like the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission.

The full text of the executive order is available online along with current fire restriction notices.