Are you curious how landowner elk tags in New Mexico are issued? Many of the hunting ranches we have for sale in New Mexico are enrolled in New Mexico’s landowner tag system for elk known as the Elk Private Land Use System or E-Plus. The state of New Mexico recognizes that private lands play a vital role in the health of the state’s big game species. While the E-Plus system is specific to elk, the state of New Mexico also offers landowner tags for antelope and mule deer. Read on to learn more about the specifics of the E-Plus system on New Mexico ranches for sale.
The E-Plus (Elk Private Land Use System) in New Mexico is a program that allocates elk hunting opportunities on private lands. This system, managed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, allows private landowners to receive elk hunting authorizations, which they can then sell or use on their New Mexico hunting properties. These authorizations can be converted into licenses by hunters, who then gain legal access to hunt elk on designated lands.
Here’s an overview of how the E-Plus system works:
1. Landowner Enrollment and Participation
• Private landowners apply for participation in the E-Plus program. To be eligible, the property must provide suitable habitat for elk and meet other requirements set by the state.
• The land is categorized into one of several levels based on factors like habitat quality, historical elk presence, and the overall impact on public elk herds.
2. Allocation of Authorizations
• Based on property assessments, landowners receive a certain number of elk hunting authorizations. The number and type of authorizations can vary depending on elk population management goals, land size, and habitat quality.
• Authorizations are categorized by season (e.g., archery, muzzleloader, rifle) and by elk type (e.g., bull, cow).
3. Use or Sale of Authorizations
• Landowners can sell, transfer, or retain these authorizations. Hunters who acquire an authorization can convert it into an elk hunting license for the designated property and season.
• This gives hunters access to hunting on private lands, which is particularly valuable for those seeking a private land hunting experience or additional access beyond public lands.
4. Program Objectives
• The E-Plus system aims to support wildlife conservation efforts by managing elk populations effectively while balancing public and private hunting opportunities.
• It helps mitigate conflicts between elk and landowners by incentivizing elk-friendly land management practices.
The E-Plus program is part of New Mexico’s broader wildlife management strategy, aimed at balancing the interests of hunters, landowners, and wildlife conservation efforts.
With decades of experience helping landowners and ranch purchasers navigate the E-Plus system, Harrigan Land Company would love to answer any additional questions you have. We love the E-Plus system, as it benefits, landowners, public hunters, and wildlife alike.
