Our Mission
Our mission is to protect and restore the environment and to foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations. We implement our mission guided by four tenets:
Science
Using the best available science to inform our decision-making in protecting public health and the environment.
Innovation
Employing creative engineering and technological solutions to address environmental challenges.
Collaboration
Engaging communities and interested stakeholders in environmental decision-making outcomes.
Compliance
Ensuring meaningful compliance with state regulations and permits; leveling the playing field through enforcement.
James C. Kenney
Cabinet Secretary
Rebecca Roose
Deputy Cabinet Secretary of Administration
Stephanie Stringer
Deputy Cabinet Secretary of Operations
Chris Catechis
Resource Protection Division Acting Director
Dana Bahar
Environmental Protection Acting Division Director
Danielle Gilliam
Administrative Services Division Director
John Rhoderick
Water Protection Division Acting Director
Mary Kay Root
Environmental Health Division Director
Vacant
Director, Office of Strategic Initiative
Gregory Chakalian
Hearing Officer, Office of Public Facilitation
Matthew Maez
Director of Communications
Peter Street
Chief Information Officer
Bruce Baizel
General Counsel
Our History
The New Mexico Environment Department was created by the 40th state Legislature in 1991 under the “Department of Environment Act” (Chapter 25). As a regulatory agency, NMED enforces state regulations and federal laws relating to protection of the environment, resources, and public health and safety.
