New Rules, Same Summer Fun — Just Don’t Forget the Life Jacket
CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — Boating season is officially underway at Bluewater Lake, and with excellent conditions reported at an elevation of 7,377 feet, the lake is primed for fishing, kayaking, and scenic outings just in time for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.
From May 18 to 24, the New Mexico State Parks Division is observing National Safe Boating Week, reminding visitors that fun on the water starts with safety. The state’s new life jacket rule— now in effect statewide—requires everyone, from kayakers to paddleboarders, to wear a U.S. Coast Guard– approved life jacket at all times while on the water. Children under 13 must wear a life jacket while on the deck of a moving vessel.
“Boating is a beloved way to enjoy the outdoors in New Mexico, but safety must come first,” said State Parks Division Director Toby Velasquez. In 2024, New Mexico reported 28 boating-related incidents, with the vast majority of drowning victims not wearing life jackets.
According to the State Parks Division, the best way to stay protected while boating are to:
• Wear a properly fitted, Coast Guard–approved life jacket
• Designate a sober boat operator
• Plan for changing weather and dress for water temperature
• File a float plan— tell someone where you’re going
• Take a free safety course (required if born after Jan. 1, 1989) Boating courses are available in English and Spanish at emnrd.nm.gov/spd, or by calling 1-888-NMPARKS.
With 945 surface acres and nearly 9,500 acre-feet of water volume as of early May, Bluewater Lake offers ample room for outdoor fun. And yes—boating is officially rated “excellent”.
For information on fishing at Bluewater Lake, check Page B2 of this week’s edition.