New Mexico Outdoor Festival Set to Showcase Skills and Traditions at Legacy Ranch

EDGEWOOD, — The New Mexico Wildlife Federation is inviting outdoor enthusiasts and families to the inaugural “NM Outdoor” festival, a day-long celebration of the state’s wild landscapes and sporting traditions scheduled for Saturday, April 4, at Legacy Ranch.

The event, which runs from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., aims to connect local communities with conservation leaders and outdoor brands while supporting the federation’s mission to preserve the “wild heart of New Mexico.”

“We’re bringing together local communities, outdoor brands, and families for a day of fun and learning,” the New Mexico Wildlife Federation said in a statement. “Whether you’re an avid hunter, a weekend hiker, or simply someone who loves being outside, there’s something for everyone.”

The festival features several high-stakes skills competitions designed to test the mettle of New Mexico’s sportsmen and women. Highlights include:

• Elk and Turkey Calling: Competitors will be judged on their ability to replicate authentic vocalizations, including bugles and gobbles, to demonstrate realism and technique.
• 3D Archery: Archers will navigate a natural walking course, shooting at life-sized foam animal targets at varying distances to simulate real-world hunting scenarios.
• Clay Shooting: A competition testing accuracy and timing as participants aim to break flying targets launched at various speeds.
• Marksmanship: A focused event for both beginners and experienced shooters emphasizing responsible gun ownership and fundamentals.

Beyond the competitions, the festival will offer wild game cooking demonstrations, dog and bird hunting showcases, and expert workshops on outdoor gear. Live music and a silent auction are also planned, with vendors on-site to display the latest in outdoor technology and apparel.

Legacy Ranch, a 500-acre premier shooting range and outdoor venue located at 74 Barton Rd. in Edgewood, serves as the backdrop for the event. Organizers emphasized that safety remains a priority, with strict protocols in place for all shooting events. Participants in firearms competitions are required to bring their own equipment and ammunition.

General event entry is required for all attendees, with separate fees for those wishing to enter specific competitions. Youth participation in several events, including the calling competitions, is free or offered at a reduced rate to encourage the next generation of conservationists.

For more information on registration, competition rules, or to purchase tickets, visit www.nmwildlife.org.

About the New Mexico Wildlife Federation:

Founded in 1914, the New Mexico Wildlife Federation is the state’s oldest sportsman’s organization. It dedicated to protecting New Mexico’s wildlife, water, and public lands through advocacy, education, and community engagement.