With support from the Gila Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico, Gila National Forest GOA funding, private donations, and dedicated volunteers, five miles of the lower Turkey Creek Trail #155 have been restored and improved. The revitalized trail now offers hikers and riders an even better experience, featuring multiple river crossings, the scenic flow of Turkey Creek, and vistas from Skeleton Ridge. Visitors are advised, however, that the road leading to the trailhead remains rough and is not suitable for low-clearance vehicles or stock trailers.
Animas Public Schools recently received a $16,000 STEM grant from New Mexico State University (NMSU) to enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for its students. The funding will provide materials and supplies to support Animas Middle School’s drone, robotics, challenge, and 3D printing programs, as well as STEM-related work-based learning opportunities for Animas High School students. In addition, the grant will help sustain the district’s free after-school programs, offered collaboratively by NMSU and Animas staff members.
The New Mexico FFA has announced the opening of its State Scholarship applications. To be eligible, applicants must be members in good standing, have maintained dues-paying membership for at least two years, hold a minimum high school GPA of 2.5, and meet any additional criteria specified for individual scholarships. All applications must be submitted by January 21, 2026 before 5 p.m. For more information, visit the website.
Last in our news:
Yesterday, Acting Governor Howie Morales signed House Bill 1, authorizing up to $20 million per week to maintain food assistance for New Mexicans amid ongoing federal uncertainty surrounding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Passed by the legislature during a special session, the bill allocates weekly appropriations from the state’s general fund operating reserve to support approximately 460,000 residents who rely on SNAP benefits. In addition, the legislation designates $100,000 to enhance security protocols, equipment, and infrastructure at the Administrative Office of the Courts and transfers $30 million from the general fund operating reserve to the appropriation contingency fund to address future emergencies. The measure provides funding through the week of January 19, 2026, ensuring continued access to nutrition assistance should federal support lapse.
