Commissioner of Public Lands

My A Vision for New Mexico’s Land, Water, and Future

As a lifelong conservationist, land manager, and public servant, Michael Perry brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective to the role of New Mexico State Land Commissioner. His priorities reflect a deep respect for the land, a commitment to local communities, and a belief in common-sense stewardship that serves both people and nature.

Responsible Land Management

Michael believes our state lands must be managed with balance, integrity, and long-term vision. His decades of experience both in the field and at the State Land Office have taught him that thoughtful, science-based land practices are key to preserving our landscapes and supporting New Mexico’s economy.

Protecting Water & Watersheds

Water is life in New Mexico. Michael has worked hands-on with watershed restoration projects and understands the vital connection between healthy land and clean, sustainable water. He supports proactive, collaborative strategies to manage our waterways and protect agricultural and municipal water supplies.

Wildfire & Flood Mitigation

New Mexico is facing increasing threats from catastrophic wildfires and post-fire flooding. Michael has seen the consequences firsthand. He is committed to strengthening interagency collaboration, restoring forest health, and investing in long-term wildfire prevention and recovery planning.

Local Solutions for Diverse Communities

Michael knows that New Mexico’s landscape is incredibly diverse and so are its people and communities. From oilfields to farmland, desert to forest, and villages to cities, no one-size-fits-all solution will work. He is dedicated to listening to local voices and tailoring land policies to fit the unique needs of each town, tribe, and county.

Access to Public Lands

Michael strongly supports public access to state trust lands for hunting, fishing, recreation, and cultural uses. He believes our public lands belong to the people and should be protected and accessible for future generations.

Support for Energy, Agriculture, and Rural Economies

Energy production plays a critical role in funding New Mexico’s public schools and services. Michael supports the responsible  development of oil and gas resources while ensuring land and environmental protections remain in place.

He also recognizes the growing importance of renewable energy in New Mexico’s future. As Land Commissioner, he will work to expand opportunities in wind, solar, and geothermal energy ensuring that New Mexico continues to lead the way in both traditional and renewable energy sectors.

Equally important, Michael understands that New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our rural communities and essential to our way of life. He is committed to advocating for their rights, protecting grazing access, and ensuring that agriculture remains a vital part of our state’s economy and land use strategy.

Bipartisan Leadership & Accountability

Michael is not here to be a Republican or Democrat Land Commissioner, he’s here to be a New Mexican Land Commissioner. He believes in transparency, accountability, and working across the aisle to deliver real results for the people of New Mexico.

Conservation Over Preservation

Michael believes in active land stewardship through conservation not passive preservation. While preservation often seeks to lock land away from use, conservation balances ecological health with economic productivity and public access. Michael supports land policies that allow for responsible grazing, recreation, energy development, and habitat restoration ensuring that our lands remain productive, resilient, and available to future generations. His boots-on-the-ground experience has shown that active management is the best path forward for New Mexico’s diverse and dynamic landscapes.