NCJ Number
210182
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 3 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2005 Pages: 27-31
Date Published
May 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This overview of New Mexico's efforts to prevent and counter terrorist attacks addresses organization, partnerships and responses, challenges, border control, nuclear asset protection, radioactive waste disposal, agro-security, training, new technology, and funding.
Abstract
In response to the September 11th attacks, New Mexico State officials prepared for the possibility of terrorism in the State by developing and implementing partnerships among State and local governments, military, and industry to design and execute a statewide homeland security strategy. Governor Bill Richardson appointed the deputy director of the Department of Public Safety as his homeland security adviser. The adviser used the Office of Emergency Services and Security to perform administrative functions, intergovernmental coordination, and oversight of the homeland security effort. Two years later, the Office of Homeland Security for the State was established. The security effort focused on control of the 180 miles of border with Mexico; the protection of nuclear assets (New Mexico is a primary research and development hub for weapons systems technology, nuclear energy, aerospace investigation, and the military); the safe handling and transportation of radioactive waste disposal; and the protection of commercial cattle feed lots and cattle ranches from communicable diseases. A National Emergency Response Training, Research, and Development Center provides standardized emergency operations training for first responders, with advanced training for emergency operations personnel. New technology has been deployed to detect toxic materials in the air. Federal funding for the homeland security effort in New Mexico totals $18.5 million for 2005, with 80 percent going directly to counties.