The Gila National Forest has announced an increase in unlawful target shooting, littering, and motor vehicle use in undesignated areas. While target shooting is permitted on Forest Service lands, it is prohibited within 150 yards of residences, buildings, campsites, developed recreation sites, or occupied areas, and shooters are required to use a proper backstop and follow all safety regulations. Officials also are reminding the public that damaging natural features or federal property, littering, and shooting at trash are illegal, and all motorized vehicles, including e-bikes, must remain on designated roads to ensure visitor safety and protect forest resources.
At the recent Cobre Consolidated Schools Board Meeting, officials recognized outstanding student achievement and community support across the district. Hurley Elementary School and San Lorenzo Elementary School were honored for earning SPOTLIGHT status, placing them among the top 25 percent of schools in New Mexico, and received the 2026 New Mexico School Boards Association Student Achievement Award. The district also recognized community partners including Freeport-McMoRan, The Commons Food Pantry, and Kiwanis International for their continued support of local students and schools.
The Village of Santa Clara is preparing for a busy summer season with the upcoming opening of its new bike pump track, splash park and Music in the Park events. Construction on the bike pump track along Fort Bayard Road is ahead of schedule and is expected to open by July 4, with plans for a community celebration. The Roger T. Silva Splash Park will open Memorial Day weekend with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., while Music in the Park begins June 12 at Viola Stone Park. Trustees also approved new dispatch software for the volunteer fire department to improve reporting efficiency and renewed Stage 1 fire restrictions for another 30 days.
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The New Mexico Department of Wildlife is reminding residents and visitors to stay “bear aware” as warmer weather brings increased bear activity across the state. Bears generally avoid humans, but unsecured food, garbage, and scented items can attract them and increase the risk of dangerous encounters. Campers and hikers are encouraged to keep clean campsites, secure food and trash, make noise on trails, hike in groups, and keep children and pets nearby. Homeowners in bear-prone areas are also advised to store garbage securely, feed pets indoors, and remove attractants such as fallen fruit and birdseed to help prevent human-bear conflicts.
