Alamogordo Parks & Rec

09/21/2026

Desert Lakes Golf Course and superintendent teams recently marked a historic milestone on September 8th, 2026, by hosting the First Green event in partnership with the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). This achievement made New Mexico the fiftieth state to host this nationwide program.

The event brought together 17 FFA students from Alamogordo High School (AHS), their agricultural teacher, a Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) New Mexico representative, local media from KHII radio, Rio Grande GCSA state chapter volunteers, and GCSAA representatives.

Students participated in hands-on learning stations covering soils, water quality testing, turf equipment, and greenkeeping practices—including cutting holes on a putting green. ⛳

09/21/2026

🌳 Park Update: The main pavilion at Washington Park received a fresh coat of paint late last week! Our team worked hard to give this community space a vibrant update.

Next time you're out walking the trails or enjoying the park, stop by and check out the fresh look! 🎨✨

07/10/2026

The City of Alamogordo Parks and Recreation Department has some leadership updates to share with the community.

As of July 6, 2026, Belinda Bass has departed from her position as Director.

As our department's inaugural director, Belinda took on the work of establishing the independent Parks and Recreation Department and building its foundation. Her leadership helped structure our operations and established the framework that will guide the future of our city's parks, facilities, and community programs. We thank Belinda for her dedication to Alamogordo and wish her the best in her next chapter.

Starting July 8, 2026, Heather Casebolt has stepped into the role of Acting Director.

Many residents already know Heather from her work over the last seven years as the Recreation Facility Manager, where she managed the Alamogordo Recreation Center and coordinated recreational opportunities for local families.

Heather has deep roots in the area as a graduate of Alamogordo High School. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration and a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at El Paso. Her background also includes nearly a decade of leadership in collegiate athletics, where she served as an assistant coach for the women's soccer teams at Valparaiso University and UTEP before transitioning into municipal management.

Please join us in welcoming Heather into this new position as she takes over the administration of our department.

05/21/2026

Howdy, Alamogordo!

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to Bonito Lake yesterday for our community cleanup event!

We had a fantastic turnout with 24 total volunteers working together to clean up the lake area as part of the Breaking Bad Habits State Initiative.

A special shout-out goes to the 6 volunteers from our Parks division and the 6 volunteers from the City Utilities department who joined forces with the team from the New Mexico Department of Wildlife.

Take a look at the photos to see the incredible amount of trash, debris, and old wire everyone managed to clear out.

We appreciate our community and partners taking the time to spend their Wednesday morning keeping this outdoor space clean and beautiful for everyone.

05/19/2026

Howdy, Alamogordo! 🌳

We have noticed some questions on Facebook recently regarding the removal of the trees in the center medians on N White Sand Blvd, between 10th Street and Indian Wells. Our Parks Supervisor, Erik Marion, provided some helpful details on what is going on and what our plans are for that section:

Why were the trees removed?

The trees that were removed were Chitalpa Speciosa, a cross between a Chitalpa and a Desert Willow, planted about 20 years ago. Unfortunately, this species is highly susceptible to a terminal condition called the Xylella Virus, which often infects them at the nursery stage.

Our crew has spent years nursing them along with supplemental water and selective pruning, but the remaining stock in the medians was failing and in very poor shape. To restore an attractive landscape, we decided to remove the failing trees and refill the empty planters.

What is replacing them?

We are replacing them with Texas Mountain Laurels! This variety is a much better fit for our local climate because it is drought-tolerant, evergreen (staying green year-round), and sized perfectly for medians, so it won't grow too large. They are also known for beautiful lavender blooms every spring.

What to expect next

These trees can be tough to find, and the only size we could secure right now is 5-gallon pots. Because of this, they will look pretty small for the first few years as they grow into their new home, but the wait for them to mature will be well worth it!

We appreciate your patience as we work to keep our city landscaping healthy and beautiful.

05/14/2026

The Alamogordo Tennis Association is celebrating 60 years, and you are invited to the party! Bring the whole family to Oregon Park for a free morning of tennis and fun. All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate.

When: Saturday, June 20th
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: Oregon Park

The event features:
- Doubles play
- Cardio Tennis
- Red Ball Tennis
- Kids games and prizes
- Free lunch for participants

The first 60 people to register and attend will receive a free t-shirt! Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit the ATA website to sign up.

Come help us celebrate six decades of tennis in Alamogordo!

05/13/2026

Howdy, Alamogordo! 🌲

We are just one week away from the Bonito Lake cleanup event! Join us next Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to help keep our lake area beautiful.

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife will have gloves, trash bags, and grabbers ready for all volunteers. It is a great way to spend a Wednesday morning outside while helping our local environment. We recommend bringing your own sunscreen and hand sanitizer.

Whether you are coming by yourself or bringing a group, we look forward to seeing you there.

For more details, visit BreakingBadHabits.NM.gov.

Make a Difference. Keep New Mexico Beautiful. Take the pledge today and join the movement to break bad habits and create a cleaner New Mexico. Take the Pledge NMDOT Announces:Land of Enchantment Young Ambassadors Learn More Every year since 2005, Albuquerque The Magazine, puts a simpl...

05/13/2026

Get the kids out on the court this June!
The Alamogordo Tennis Association and the USTA are sponsoring a Youth Summer Tennis program for elementary- and middle-school students. This is a great opportunity for beginning and intermediate players to receive structured instruction and plenty of playtime.

Dates: June 2 through June 18
Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Time: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Location: Oregon Tennis Courts

Each session includes a warm-up, a mini-lesson, and organized play. There are no required fees, though donations are welcome to help cover equipment costs.

Kids should come dressed to play with sneakers and their own water. If they have a racket, they should bring it, but loaners are available if needed. Please remember that gum is not allowed on the courts.

Parents must submit a registration form, including contact info and medical waivers. For more information or to get a form, contact Janet Santackas or Evelyn Genta at [email protected].

05/08/2026

Howdy!
Today is the day for your junior animal lovers to get ready!

Registration for the Alameda Park Zoo Jr. Zookeeper Program opens at 5:00 PM today, May 8. This is an online-only registration, and spots fill up quickly once they are available.

If your kids want to learn and explore at the zoo this summer, make sure you are ready to sign up right at 5:00 PM.

You can find the registration catalog here:
https://secure.rec1.com/NM/alamogordo-nm-zoo/catalog

05/06/2026

Howdy, Alamogordo!

Help us keep our local spots beautiful! We are sharing information about the May Cleanup Event at Bonito Lake, hosted by the New Mexico Department of Wildlife as part of their Breaking Bad Habits initiative.

Bonito Lake is a favorite for many in our community, and your help ensures it stays healthy for everyone to enjoy.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Meet at Bonito Lake

The organizers provide gloves, trash bags, and grabbers. You just need to bring sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and a smile! Whether you are volunteering as an individual, a family, or a group, your time makes a difference.

Help us keep our local spots beautiful! We are sharing information about the May Cleanup Event at Bonito Lake, hosted by the New Mexico Department of Wildlife as part of their Breaking Bad Habits initiative.

See you at the lake!