Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico has authorized this year's Governor's Special Hunt Auction, an initiative designed to fund wildlife conservation efforts across the state, according to the New Mexico Game and Fish Department. The online auction, facilitated in partnership with New Mexico Ducks Unlimited (DU), aims to bolster the Game Protection Fund through the sale of eight unique big-game hunting licenses.
The licenses available for auction include:
• An Exotics Hunt Package featuring an either- sex oryx license and an either-sex barbary sheep license.
• A Coues deer license applicable in Game Management Units (GMUs) 23, 24, 26, or 27.
• Three elk licenses, available separately in GMUs 34 or 36, GMUs 16 A-E, and GMU 55A Valle Vidal.
• Two mule deer licenses in GMU 2 and GMUs 4 or 5.
• A pronghorn antelope license valid in any open GMU.
These licenses, distinct from Enhancement Licenses, must align with an existing hunt code, as stipulated by the New Mexico Game and Fish Department. Successful bidders will have the option to extend their hunting period by an additional five consecutive days, before or after the original hunt dates established by the relevant hunt code.
Bidders can register and participate in the auction by visiting the Hunt Auction 2024 Online platform. In addition to these hunting licenses, the auction will feature other items offered by Ducks Unlimited, with proceeds supporting their extensive wetland and waterfowl conservation efforts worldwide.
Ducks Unlimited has played a critical role in conserving over 5,000 acres of habitat in New Mexico, which benefits a diverse array of waterfowl and other wildlife species, according to the New Mexico Game and Fish Department. These conservation projects are vital for maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity of the region.
For more detailed information on hunt codes, season dates, weapon choices, and all regulations related to big game hunts in New Mexico, interested parties are encouraged to consult the 2024-2025 Hunting Rules and Information Booklet available through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish's official website.