The Gila National Forest has experienced a recent increase in vandalism at developed Forest Service sites such as trailheads, campgrounds, and other recreation areas, with some incidents posing serious public health and safety risks. These include biohazard contamination of vault toilets, creation of fire hazards from illegally harvested trees, and improper disposal of food and trash that attracts wildlife and increases the risk of negative human–animal interactions. Damage from vandalism may require temporary site closures, therefore the Forest Service urges the public to help protect public lands by respecting facilities and reporting vandalism to law enforcement through the Silver City Dispatch Center.
Hidalgo Medical Services is expanding access to life-saving overdose prevention resources through the installation of two SMART Naloxone Vending Machines, one in Grant County and one in Hidalgo County. These machines are part of New Mexico’s statewide naloxone distribution initiative, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and administered by the New Mexico Health Care Authority’s Behavioral Health Services Division through a State Opioid Response grant. This effort is part of Hidalgo Medical Services’ ongoing commitment to addressing substance use disorders through prevention, education, and harm reduction.
The Town of Silver City Council will hold a regular Town Council meeting on Wednesday, February 10, at 6:00 p.m. at the Grant County Administration Center. Agenda items include the Town Manager’s report, the Mayor’s appointments to boards and commissions for Council consideration, consideration of Resolution 2026-05 regarding the protection of constitutional rights when receiving federal, state, or county funds, and consideration of Bid 25/26-3 for improvements to the Silco Theater.
Last in our news:
New Mexico is launching a temporary, state-funded food assistance program in response to new federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program rules that will reduce benefits for thousands of lawfully present immigrants statewide. With the support of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, the New Mexico Legislature appropriated $12 million during the October special legislative session to address the anticipated loss of food assistance. The funding will provide a one-time, state-funded lump-sum payment to current SNAP recipients affected by the federal changes. For additional information on SNAP updates and eligibility, visit the website.
