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Law Enforcement

Where's the buck/Bennette JenkinsThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintains a law enforcement presence on National Wildlife Refuge lands.  Federal law enforcement officers ensure the safety of the public and the protection of natural resources making Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge a better place for wildlife, wildlife habitat, and the visitors who come to enjoy the refuge.

Refuge officers address illegal activities including poaching, taking of endangered species, dumping of trash, illegal operation of all terrain vehicles, trespassing and more.  They enforce certain regulations that are necessary for the safety of visitors and the protection of wildlife and wildlife habitat.  Visitors to the refuge are subject to Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. 

Sometimes the refuge must close public areas due to improvements that are being made, prescribed burns, or other management issues.  This information and associated regulations are posted at the Visitor Center so please be sure to check in to learn more about what is happening. 

* There is no hunting on the refuge.* 

To report a violation on Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge please call:

  • Monday through Friday between 9am to 3pm, MDT:  (575) 375-2331, Ext. 200
  • After hours or on weekends:  (505) 652-0861

Regulatory Signs:  Please obey all of the refuge's posted signs.

Injured Wildlife:  Please contact The Wildlife Center, a State permitted wildlife hospital located in Espanola, New Mexico.  Their telephone number is:  (505) 753-9505.

Some Helpful Links:
Digest of Federal Resource Laws
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
New Mexico Department of Public Safety

Page Photo Credits — Where is the buck/Bennette Jenkins, Grasshopper sparrow / © Robert Shantz, All photos courtesy of USFWS unless otherwise noted.
Last Updated: Jul 21, 2015
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