New Mexico faces mounting climate challenges, including extreme heat, wildfires, droughts, storms, heavy precipitation and associated health risks. To plan for such changes, the state has released a pivotal, inaugural Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (CARP).
The CARP was spearheaded by a dedicated project management team led by staff from the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) and other state agencies. State officials emphasize that this is the first edition of this significant document.
The document projects a 24% decrease in surface water runoff and groundwater recharge over the next 50 years, twice as many days with extreme heat, increased risk of wildfires and flash floods.
Beginning in May, EMNRD will host a series of community conversations in which residents across the state will be able to provide suggestions for making the plan more responsive to their local needs.
Albuquerque-area residents will get two chances to attend. The first is set for May 22 for general input and a tribal-focused event is on June 6.
“New Mexicans have long shown resilience, devising solutions to protect our land, culture and livelihoods,” said Dylan Fuge, EMNRD’s deputy secretary. “Adapting to climate change demands understanding our present and preparing for its impacts. The recent Calf Canyon-Hermits Peak Fire anniversary underscores this urgency and our community’s steadfastness.”
The conservation series will bring together residents, experts, local governments and stakeholders to discuss climate impacts and resilience strategies.
“The CARP embodies our state’s commitment to resilience, employing a collaborative, government-wide approach,” said Rebecca “Puck” Stair, director of the New Mexico State Energy Office. “To ensure its effectiveness, it must address the diverse needs of all New Mexicans. Through the Community Conversation Series, EMNRD will foster dialogue among communities, local governments, Tribes, Pueblos, Nations, and stakeholders, shaping strategies for a more resilient future. Your input will guide our ongoing improvements.”
The community conversations are inclusive, with lunch or dinner provided after each in-person workshop. A virtual workshop will be scheduled for residents from all communities across New Mexico.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
WHEN AND WHERE:
Attend an in-person workshop at one of seven locations across the state:
• May 20: Truth or Consequences
• May 21: Roswell
• May 22: Albuquerque
• June 3: Farmington
• June 4: Taos
• June 5: Las Vegas
• June 6: Albuquerque, Tribal-focused eventVIRTUAL: A virtual workshop will be announced at a later date. Visit https://climateaction.nm.gov/carp/ to view the plan.