N.M. Stat. § 16-3-4
State trails system created; types of trails; planning.
A. There is created a "state trails system" composed of:
(1)
"state scenic trails" which are extended trails so located as to provide
maximum potential for the appreciation of natural areas and for the conservation and
enjoyment of the significant scenic, historic, natural, ecological, geological or cultural
qualities of the areas through which such trails pass;
(2)
"state recreation trails" which are trails designed to provide a variety of
outdoor recreational uses in or reasonably accessible to urban areas and, where
appropriate, shall connect parks, scenic areas, historical points and neighboring
communities;
(3)
"state historical trails" which are trails designed to identify and interpret
routes which were significant in the prehistoric settlement or historical development of
the state; and
(4)
"special use trails" which are trails that may provide uses also provided by
scenic, recreation and historical trails but which shall not be limited to such uses. The
secretary may designate special use trails in such locations as he deems appropriate
and may limit the use of such trails to such special users as he determines. In
designating special use trails, the secretary shall give due regard to the interests of
users who have needs of a special nature which are not fulfilled by other trail types
comprising the state trails system.
B. State trails shall be supplemented by support facilities deemed necessary and
feasible by the secretary. These facilities shall comply with health and environment
department [department of environment] standards and regulations.
C. In the planning and designation of trails, the secretary shall give due regard to
the interests of federal or state agencies, counties, municipalities, private landowners
and interested individuals and recreational and conservation organizations. The
secretary shall give full consideration to the inclusion of trails from all categories within
the system.
D. The secretary shall prescribe the uses and limits of each type of trail.
E. Separate trails may be established for motorized vehicles but shall not be trails
designated for horseback riding, hiking or bicycling.
F. Before making a final designation of any trail, the secretary shall:
(1)
hold a public hearing after proper notice within the affected county and
area; and
(2)
as a result of the hearing, adopt a finding approving or disapproving the
trail based upon evidence as to the adverse effects that the trail has on the holders of
any interest in the lands in the proximity of the trail.