Outdoor Economics Conference to talk New Mexico public lands returns to Las Cruces

The Outdoor Economics Conference is scheduled for Sept. 23 through Sept. 25 in Las Cruces.

The conference is meant to bring together stakeholders, lawmakers and the public to "advance economic development strategies and opportunities" connected to New Mexico public lands.

As part of the Conference, Adventure Pitch applications are now open. Adventure Pitch offers $15,000 in prizes for startups in outdoor recreation, environment and wellness. Applications are due Aug. 23. Pitches will be judged based on team, market and high-growth potential, product, traction and competitive advantage.

Registration is open for the conference and can be done online at outdooreconomics.com. Tickets sales end Sept. 24.

A series of tours will be offered during the conference including a hike to Dripping Springs, bird watching at Leasburg Dam State Park, La Cueva Archeological Site and Slot Canyon. Outdoor tours are by registration.

The conference will feature as panelists acting secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department Lancing Adams, director of the state's Outdoor Recreation Division Karina Armijo, Bureau of Land Management director Melanie Barnes, director of New Mexico State Parks Toby Velasquez, Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez and New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie Morales.

The conference schedule includes sessions on federal and state initiatives, multi-cultural approaches to land use, sustainable ecosystems and economies, and partnerships in the outdoors.

For a full schedule of events at the conference, visit https://www.outdooreconomics.com/2024-schedule/.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Outdoor Economics Conference in Las Cruces opens registration