New Mexico wildlife officials are preparing to crack down on visitors who show up at some state lands without the proper permit.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish says many residents are still not aware that they must have a Gaining Access into Nature permit, also known as GAIN.
The permit applies to anyone who wants to watch wildlife, hike or bike in more than a dozen properties around the state.
Anyone caught recreating without a GAIN permit or specialty license can be fined up to $500 and jailed up to six months.
The permit requirement was first enacted in 2009.
Some sportsmen say licensed hunters and anglers shouldn't have to buy another permit for accompanying friends or family.
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Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican, http://www.sfnewmexican.com
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