New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment Established 1912, 47th State

Climate

Average Seasonal High and Low Temperatures • Spring: 72/41°F • Summer: 90/62°F • Fall: 71/43°F • Winter: 52/25°F

Geography

New Mexico is the fifth largest state, with an area of 121,598 square miles (314,937 sq km). The state has four main regions: the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Plateau, the Basin and Range Province, and the Great Plains. The Rocky Mountains extend from Alaska clear down into northern New Mexico. A part of the Rockies, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are the highest mountain range in the state. In northwestern New Mexico lies the Colorado Plateau. This region is made up of layers of sandstone, limestone, and shale (thin, splintery rock deposits). Wind and water have carved through the rock to create high cliffs, flat highlands, and deep canyons. The Basin and Range Province, which includes mountains and desert valleys, spans the central and southern parts of the state. This is where most New Mexicans live. The Great Plains are in eastern New Mexico. Much of the landscape in this region is flat and perfect for raising cattle. The state's main river is the Rio Grande, which flows southward across the state.

Resources and Economy

A large percentage of New Mexicans are employed in service jobs. They may work in the military, study nuclear energy, or protect the environment. Many work for the U.S. government. Mining is also important to the state's economy because of New Mexico's mineral resources. Oil, coal, natural gas, and copper are found in the state. Despite the dry climate, farmers raise chili peppers, onions, grapes, apples, and pecans. But beef cattle are New Mexico's most important agricultural product. Albuquerque is a leading manufacturing center. Computer parts, electronic equipment, and food products are just some of the items produced in the state. Also, an international balloon festival, Native American sites, art galleries, and beautiful scenery help draw tourists to New Mexico.

Population

1,969,915

Government

Capital:
State Abbreviation: NM
Governor: Bill Richardson (Democrat)
U.S. Senators: 2
Jeff Bingaman (Democrat)
Pete Domenici (Republican)
U.S. Representatives: 3
    Republicans: 2
    Democrats 1
State Senators: 42
State Representatives: 70
Counties: 33

Fun Facts

* Smokey Bear, the U.S. Forest Service mascot, came from New Mexico. * More people are killed by lightning in New Mexico than in any other state. * At 7,000 feet (2,134 m) above sea level, Santa Fe is the highest capital city in the United States. * The world's largest international hot air balloon festival takes place in Albuquerque. * One out of three families in New Mexico speaks Spanish at home. * Founded in 1610, Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States. * New Mexico has far more sheep and cattle than people. * Since New Mexico's climate is so dry, three-fourths of the roads are left unpaved. These roads don't wash away. * The largest chamber of Carlsbad Caverns is more than 10 football fields long and about 22 stories high. * Truth or Consequences is the name of a town in New Mexico. Originally called Hot Springs, the place was renamed after a popular 1950s radio show. * Roswell is home to the UFO Museum and Research Center and is a popular tourist spot for people interested in aliens.