This memorial requests the New Mexico Legislative Council to establish a Wildfire Study Group aimed at developing a comprehensive strategy to address and mitigate wildfires in the state. The bill emphasizes the importance of aligning the priorities of various stakeholders, including first responders, local and federal officials, utilities, and landowners, to enhance safety and protect property and wildlife. The study group will focus on identifying high-risk areas for catastrophic wildfires, developing emergency response plans, and proposing effective policies and practices for wildfire risk mitigation, particularly in vegetation management.
The study group will consist of at least fourteen members appointed from various agencies and stakeholder entities, including the forestry division, state land office, and Indian affairs department, among others. The group is tasked with coordinating its activities through the forestry division and is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the appropriate interim legislative committee by November 1, 2025. The memorial also calls for the engagement of indigenous knowledge systems in land management decisions to enhance climate resilience and protect resources for future generations.