Can someone clarify for me how N.Mexico does their draw for elk? My credit card was charged $760 by the NMFG Dept. Does this mean I drew a tag? On the regulations it says the full amount is charged upfront before the draw for species like Oryx...but nothing about this upfront charge for elk.....did I draw an elk tag?  

I think it's upfront charges for all big game this year.

I was afraid you'd say that.....  

I just got the official word from a New Mexico guy that they changed the draw for this year. All big game applicants are charged upfront....have to wait until June for the drawing.  

If you don't draw an elk tag, does this mean you get your money back? If not, this is highway robbery.    :mad:

They credit your card back for that amount is what I was told. I think it is smart on their part. This way they know the card is valid and that you are sincere about applying. By using your money for 6 weeks or so they might even get enough interest off it to pay for their processing fees. I just don't understand why it has to be June before the results are out. Seems like they could do it alot faster. Oregon is the same way...June 20th.  It would help for people who have to submit their vacation time if they did it sooner also.

Wyoming is the same way when I applied last year they take the whole amount out.  Then if you do not draw they give you all but I think $20 of it back, they keep that for a processing fee.  

I think it is a great way to do it because that way the tag is already bought and paid for if you do draw.  Otherwise I would think they could have some non residents not show up and buy the tag they drew.

Far as I am concerned it IS highway robbery.  Do you realize how many similar amounts they "hold" for several months.  They are making fair amount off of your money and then they complain about non residents.  

Fact is, In Wyoming, Non residents pay the majority of all the monies that the F&G gets in each year.  

I think it is a LOUSY way to do it.  They can easily apply it when you are chosen, instead of before.
ChuckC