Pronghorn hunt rules changes proposed

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Game and Fish Department is considering changing the rules for how pronghorn are hunted in the state.

The agency has planned a series of public meetings to discuss proposed changes that would align pronghorn hunts more closely with how deer are hunted in New Mexico. Officials say that would allow for more opportunities for hunters on public and private lands.

The first meeting is scheduled for today in Albuquerque. It will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the department office, 3841 Midway Place NE.

Meetings will also be held: Oct. 26 in Las Vegas at the New Mexico State Police Office, 520 South Commerce; Nov. 9 in Roswell at the department office, 1912 W. Second St.; and Nov. 16 in Las Cruces at the department office, 2715 Northrise Drive. All the meetings are from 6 to 7: 30 p.m.

If any changes are adopted, they would be implemented for the 2019-20 hunting season.

The department says improvements in how the pronghorn population is surveyed have resulted in better data on which to base annual harvest recommendations.

More information on the proposed rules can be found at www.wildlife.state.nm.us.