Information on Coronavirus Restrictions Impacting Hunting/Fishing
PLEASE NOTE: The New Mexico Council of Outfitters and Guides has created this page to be a resource.
Information obtained from this website should be applied in addition to all other state & federal rules and regulations.
The content of this web-page is informational only and is not legally binding.
Information obtained from this website should be applied in addition to all other state & federal rules and regulations.
The content of this web-page is informational only and is not legally binding.
STAY-AT-HOME DIRECTIVE
Effective July 13th, 2020 New Mexico Governor, Michele Lujan Grisham announced the state will re-enact emergency public health restrictions on high-contact environments to slow the rising spread of COVID-19 across the state. There is no expiration date associated with this new announcement.
The new public health order will prohibit indoor dining at restaurants and breweries, which had been permitted at a limited capacity since June 15. The order also
The new public health order will prohibit indoor dining at restaurants and breweries, which had been permitted at a limited capacity since June 15. The order also
HUNTING AND FISHING
LICENSES
Contrary to the many completely fake and totally off-the-wall rumors of banning non-residents and total season closures, the NMDGF began their 2020 license year April 1st as scheduled. Dept. offices are currently closed and staff is working remotely due to Coronavirus restrictions but business is running mostly as usual. However, due to the misinformation being reported on social media, license vendors may express confusion regarding their ability to issue licenses during this time and hunters/anglers should purchase licenses online at the Dept. website to avoid delays.
CARCASS TAGS
As always carcass tags are required for all big game and turkey hunters. Given the uncertainty of postal mail during the Coronavirus restrictions, hunters may prefer the E-tag option. Hunters must choose whether to E-Tag or receive a physical tag when purchasing their license. Hunters must download the E-Tag app to their mobile phone and save their license in the app. The hunter will receive an E-Tag number with the CIN and the date of kill which must be hand written on a durable material and attached to the animal. The app will work even while out of service as long as the license is saved prior to leaving cell service. Hunters must be able to show their license on their phone. Find the NMDGF E-tag app in the Google Play Store or the Apple Store.
DRAW HUNTS
The New Mexico Big Game Draw took place as scheduled on April 29th. There are no license restrictions for non-resident hunters or anglers in the state of New Mexico at this time. NMCOG is working with the Dept. to develop a strategy to deal with a high volume of canceled tags IF it happens (and we sincerely hope it does not). NMCOG would also like to recognize Director Sloane and his staff for their impeccable handling of the Game and Fish agency through these uncertain times! NM hunters/anglers have more to be thankful for than they realize and all the credit goes to the NMDGF.
ACCESS TO PUBLIC LANDS
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION
New Mexico BLM recreation areas and campgrounds remain open; however, some visitor centers that are typically operated by volunteers are closed. For area specific information please visit the BLM website HERE
NATIONAL FOREST
The five national forests in New Mexico began orderly closure of developed recreation sites on March 23, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The developed recreation site closures will remain in effect until further notice. The US Forest Service has decided to invoke a campfire restriction for all NM National Forests to reduce the risk of human caused wildfire during the Coronavirus pandemic. The order prevents forest visitors from building, maintaining, attending, or using a campfire, or wood burning stove fire. Persons using pressurized liquid or gas fueled devices (stoves, grills, or lanterns) are exempt from the order.
Although all restrooms and group campgrounds are closed, the national forests and grasslands are still available to visitors who want to spend time outdoors for dispersed recreation. Fees will not be charged at sites with limited services. For forest specific information please click on the links below
Although all restrooms and group campgrounds are closed, the national forests and grasslands are still available to visitors who want to spend time outdoors for dispersed recreation. Fees will not be charged at sites with limited services. For forest specific information please click on the links below
STATE GAME COMMISSION PROPERTIES
In an effort to prevent transmission of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has closed all Department offices and all Department hatcheries. For area specific information please click HERE.
STATE TRUST LANDS
There are no specific COVID-19 restrictions on New Mexico State Trust Land. A valid hunting, fishing, or trapping license allows for access onto state trust land through the State Land Office’s easement agreement with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish which was approved on March 4, 2020. Access is only allowed during the ongoing hunt for that specific area, and for scouting access up to 7 days prior to the hunt. Fishing is allowed on state trust land year round with a valid fishing license. State Trust Land offices are closed until further notice due to Coronavirus.
STATE PARKS
As of May 1st 2020 State Parks began to open back up gradually and for day-use only. Click HERE for area specific information.
VALLES CALDERA NATIONAL PRESERVE
The Valles Caldera National Preserve can be accessed by foot only at this time. The main entrance road will be closed to vehicular traffic until further notice. Visitor Center staff are working remotely.
OUTFITTER/GUIDE RESOURCES
OUTFITTERS
SPECIAL USE PERMITS
Federal and State Land Management agencies are processing special use permits as usual. Please submit your paperwork as you have done historically in order to obtain a use permit to operate in the National Forest, BLM, or State Trust lands. If you are having problems obtaining your permit or getting ahold of personnel please contact the NMCOG right away.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Unemployment for NM independent contractors is now available on the Workforce Solutions Website (see the instructions at the end of this email on how to navigate applying for unemployment benefits - it's lengthy)
The President also signed the legislation to add funding to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. That means:
Paycheck Protection Loans
The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution. Independent contractors are eligible to apply for PPP loans.
The Schedule C of your tax return is the key document that you will need to apply for a PPP loan. You will need to use your net earnings number (be advised: if you have a negative net earnings you will not qualify for funding). Click HERE to find a PPP lender near you.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan provides vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is currently underfunded and receiving funds in the program is low but you never know unless you try. To apply for an EIDL loan click HERE.
Below are a few things to remember regarding any financial assistance program being offered under the CARES Act.
NMCOG recognizes that due to the unique nature of hunting & fishing business operations, the following options may not be right for all business owners. Please go through each resource individually and determine if any of these options might help ease the impacts being felt by your operation. Also, remember that these opportunities are changing fast so don’t delay. An option available today might not be there tomorrow.
COVID LOAN TRACKER
Click HERE to view a new website to track loans made to small businesses. Please also provide the site with info about your loan applications so they can keep fellow business owners informed. This form takes 60 seconds.
Federal and State Land Management agencies are processing special use permits as usual. Please submit your paperwork as you have done historically in order to obtain a use permit to operate in the National Forest, BLM, or State Trust lands. If you are having problems obtaining your permit or getting ahold of personnel please contact the NMCOG right away.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Unemployment for NM independent contractors is now available on the Workforce Solutions Website (see the instructions at the end of this email on how to navigate applying for unemployment benefits - it's lengthy)
The President also signed the legislation to add funding to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. That means:
- If your loan is one that was in limbo when the SBA halted the program you should contact your lender TODAY to determine where you are in this new SBA pipeline.
- If you were denied for lack of funding you can re-apply. Find a different lender if you are having trouble with your original lender.
- If you have not applied yet, start the process right this minute. The money will likely be gone twice as fast as it was the first time. Do not delay.
- But be prepared to experience all kinds of frustration and annoying government bureaucracy around every corner.
Paycheck Protection Loans
The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution. Independent contractors are eligible to apply for PPP loans.
The Schedule C of your tax return is the key document that you will need to apply for a PPP loan. You will need to use your net earnings number (be advised: if you have a negative net earnings you will not qualify for funding). Click HERE to find a PPP lender near you.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan provides vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is currently underfunded and receiving funds in the program is low but you never know unless you try. To apply for an EIDL loan click HERE.
Below are a few things to remember regarding any financial assistance program being offered under the CARES Act.
- Multiple applications - you can apply for both a PPP loan and an EDIL loan but you cannot apply for multiple loans under the same program.
- Expect Delays - millions are expected to apply for financial assistance over the next few days. There will be all kinds of delays and technical issues.
- Be Patient but persistent - there is a massive backlog of applications for loans and lenders are overwhelmed. Be persistent but remembers your manners. You get more flies with honey...
- Loan is Debt - while these are very low interest loans and it is likely that at least a portion is expected to be forgiven; it is important to remember that, above everything else, these financial assistance options are considered debt.
- COVID Loan Tracker - click HERE to view a new website to track loans made to small businesses. Please also provide the site with info about your loan applications so they can keep fellow business owners informed. This form takes 60 seconds.
NMCOG recognizes that due to the unique nature of hunting & fishing business operations, the following options may not be right for all business owners. Please go through each resource individually and determine if any of these options might help ease the impacts being felt by your operation. Also, remember that these opportunities are changing fast so don’t delay. An option available today might not be there tomorrow.
- Anyone who has applied or plans to apply for a PPP or EIDL (Disaster) Loan should watch THIS webinar put together by the America Outdoors Association.
- NM SBA Assistance Resource Guide
- Paycheck Protection Program Loans
- The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution. Visit www.sba.gov for more details. Independent contractors are eligible to apply for PPP loans.
- Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Assistance
- The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan provides vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is currently underfunded and receiving funds in the program is unlikely.
- NM State Tax Relief
- IRS Tax Relief
- COVID-19 Business Loan Guaranty Program
- NM Economic Development Department Resources
- LEDA Zero-Percent Interest Loans
- Limited to expenditures for land, building and infrastructure. Can be used for lease abatement or mortgage assistance. Company must be a qualified entity (manufacturer, non-retail service business with more than 50% of revenue generated out of state, or a retail business in a community or less than 15,000 in population). All loans will be required to provide security equal to the amount of the loan. Lease abatement or mortgage assistance (contact [email protected] or call 575-562-0327)
- New Mexico Finance Authority: Business Loan Partnership Program
- Contact John Brooks at 1-877-ASK-NMFA or [email protected]
COVID LOAN TRACKER
Click HERE to view a new website to track loans made to small businesses. Please also provide the site with info about your loan applications so they can keep fellow business owners informed. This form takes 60 seconds.
GUIDES
As of right now, independent contractors (who file their taxes using 1099 forms) should apply for the PPP using the same form that small businesses use, and substitute their own income for the average monthly payroll. The Schedule C of your tax return is the key document that you will need to apply for a PPP loan. You will need to use your net earnings number.
Guides who work as "employees" and whose hours have been reduced or who are laid off, including due to temporary business closures, because of the COVID-19 public health emergency are eligible for unemployment. Apply online by going to the New Mexico Workforce Connection Online System or by phone at 1-877-664-6984.
Unemployment Benefits
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions recently announced that the application for unemployment insurance benefits for self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers under the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program became available on Sunday, April 26, 2020 but there are some things you need to do before to qualify.
Applying for PUA is a two-step process that individuals should begin immediately.
Step 1: Individuals will first need to file a regular Unemployment Insurance claim (essentially a denial) to determine if their income is covered by the regular state Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. If deemed ineligible, they will be cleared to apply for PUA benefits.
Step 2: Once a claimant is deemed ineligible for regular benefits, they will be provided access to apply for PUA benefits through an application link that will appear on their Unemployment Insurance Tax & Claims System homepage. This application will become available on Sunday, April 26.
Self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, are encouraged to begin filing claims online at www.jobs.state.nm.us.
Those who have already filed a claim for regular UI benefits (and were denied) do not need to file a new claim. Beginning Sunday, April 26, eligible workers are able to access the PUA application through their online claim. Claimants will be asked to submit additional information required for PUA eligibility including proof of earnings and proof of employment.
When applying for PUA, individuals will need to provide their income information for their most recently completed and filed tax year (either 2018 or 2019) in order for NMDWS to determine their PUA weekly benefit amount.
Acceptable forms of proof of earnings include copies of income tax return forms such as the following:
Form 1040
Form 1040A
Form 1040EZ
Form 1040NR
Form 1040NR-EZ
Form 1040 Schedule C, E, F and SE
Form K-1
PUA is payable for weeks of unemployment, partial unemployment, or inability to work caused by COVID-19 related reasons beginning on or after January 27, 2020. PUA is not payable for any week of unemployment ending after December 31, 2020. Claimants must certify weekly, and once these claims are processed, all eligible weeks will be paid retroactively.
Guides who work as "employees" and whose hours have been reduced or who are laid off, including due to temporary business closures, because of the COVID-19 public health emergency are eligible for unemployment. Apply online by going to the New Mexico Workforce Connection Online System or by phone at 1-877-664-6984.
Unemployment Benefits
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions recently announced that the application for unemployment insurance benefits for self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers under the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program became available on Sunday, April 26, 2020 but there are some things you need to do before to qualify.
Applying for PUA is a two-step process that individuals should begin immediately.
Step 1: Individuals will first need to file a regular Unemployment Insurance claim (essentially a denial) to determine if their income is covered by the regular state Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. If deemed ineligible, they will be cleared to apply for PUA benefits.
Step 2: Once a claimant is deemed ineligible for regular benefits, they will be provided access to apply for PUA benefits through an application link that will appear on their Unemployment Insurance Tax & Claims System homepage. This application will become available on Sunday, April 26.
Self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, are encouraged to begin filing claims online at www.jobs.state.nm.us.
Those who have already filed a claim for regular UI benefits (and were denied) do not need to file a new claim. Beginning Sunday, April 26, eligible workers are able to access the PUA application through their online claim. Claimants will be asked to submit additional information required for PUA eligibility including proof of earnings and proof of employment.
When applying for PUA, individuals will need to provide their income information for their most recently completed and filed tax year (either 2018 or 2019) in order for NMDWS to determine their PUA weekly benefit amount.
Acceptable forms of proof of earnings include copies of income tax return forms such as the following:
Form 1040
Form 1040A
Form 1040EZ
Form 1040NR
Form 1040NR-EZ
Form 1040 Schedule C, E, F and SE
Form K-1
PUA is payable for weeks of unemployment, partial unemployment, or inability to work caused by COVID-19 related reasons beginning on or after January 27, 2020. PUA is not payable for any week of unemployment ending after December 31, 2020. Claimants must certify weekly, and once these claims are processed, all eligible weeks will be paid retroactively.