What outdoor recreational activities do you enjoy and
when and where was the last time you did so?
As a 12th generation New Mexican and lifelong resident of
this state, I’ve been privileged to benefit from our beautiful lands and natural resources. I hike, bike, fish, and ride horseback across New Mexico. I went fly fishing and hiked in the Valles Calderas this past weekend, recently horseback riding in Canjillon at the Carson National Forest, and cycled at White Sands National Monument and El Malpais National monument as part of our campaign’s 33 county Jobs and Leadership Tour last month.
Where do you stand regarding commercial wildlife
trapping on public lands?
Our land and wildlife management should work to
maintain existing ecosystems and promote animal welfare. While there are specific instances where individual animals are causing serious and possibly life or property- threatening damage or depredation, New Mexico should commit itself to implementing a science-driven, 21st century wildlife stewardship model that reduces the potential to indiscriminately catch, maim or kill wildlife and domestic pets.
Do you support or oppose changing the law requiring
euthanization for rabies testing of wildlife involved in attacks upon humans such as the case involving the Valles Caldera trail runner?
I would support a study within the Department of Game
and Fish to examine the impact of and alternatives to the current law, which requires euthanasia in all circumstances when a human is attacked. We ought to look at possible alternative methods for testing for and assessment of rabies risk, while ensuring that the Department of Game and Fish and its staff continue to prioritize keeping people safe from harm.
What is your position on recent proposals to merge the
state Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division to maximize resources and improve services?
In recent years we’ve seen legislation and proposals that
would expand and/or alter the scope of operations for NMDGF, or merge it with other agencies.
I support the study of proposals like merging the
department with the State Parks Division that could potentially help to ensure adequate resources for the management of non-game species currently under the purview of NMDGF, create efficiencies, Any such change must be conducted with careful preparation and analysis to ensure that there are no discontinuities in important services and that that funding is available for all aspects of service. I will work to evaluate this change, solicit public and stakeholder input, and ensure any such change is coupled with adequate funding for the department to meet its goals.
What do you think of the idea of creating a state office
or agency to support and promote outdoor recreation in New Mexico?
I believe that a creating state office of outdoor recreation,
done the right way, is a clear step in the right direction to promoting and expanding this growing industry. This $10 billion dollar economy is one of New Mexico’s strongest growth opportunities. In forming this office we should bring together stakeholders from industry, local businesses, outfitters, conservation groups, federal agencies, and those engaged in outdoor recreation to chart the best path forward as we look to coordinate and leverage the incredible resources our state has to offer. I will support key performance measures for the office in terms of economic growth, conservation, and enhancements to our outdoor recreation infrastructure.
Pearce responses:
● What outdoor recreational activities do you enjoy and
when and where was the last time you did so?
Hunting, fishing, and hiking. I take every opportunity I can
to enjoy our beautiful state. In line with keeping up with both a Congressional schedule and a campaign schedule, I especially try to find any opportunity afforded me to get outside and hike. Most recently I spent a few hours in the Organ Mountains. As for hunting, I took my granddaughter on her first turkey hunt in Lincoln County last season. Unfortunately, I have not had the time to hunt yet this year but I'm looking forward to getting back out there after the election.
● Where do you stand regarding commercial wildlife
trapping on public lands?
I support limited and regulated trapping on public lands,
including commercial trapping when it serves State Game and Fish management interest. New Mexico is home to a diverse and unique culture and heritage. We must find the correct balance of protecting the outdoors and our species, as well as our citizens ability to hunt and trap.
● Do you support or oppose changing the law requiring
euthanization for rabies testing of wildlife involved in attacks upon humans such as the case involving the Valles Caldera trail runner?
Oppose, at this point. I would work with the Department of
Health, Game and Fish, and the State legislature to update the law, should it be necessary in the future.
● What is your position on recent proposals to merge
the state Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division to maximize resources and improve services?
I oppose this proposal. These entities have two unique and
vital missions to the success and health of New Mexico’s natural beauty. As they currently stand, they have the resources necessary to complete their missions successfully. As Governor, I will ensure they also have the proper management to continue on the progress and positive impact they are making on our State.
● What do you think of the idea of creating a state office
or agency to support and promote outdoor recreation in New Mexico?
I believe it is a premature decision. Game and Fish, State
Parks, Forestry, and Tourism all have a role and responsibility to play in providing the best experience possible for New Mexicans and visitors alike. I will work as Governor to ensure they have the management and coordination to continue expanding opportunity and protecting access to our public lands. The State has the proper resources in place to promote our beauty - it needs to focus on coordination and action over the creation of more bureaucracy.