About elephant butte
Where else can you drive just two minutes to a championship golf course, three to beachside camping, and five to fishing, water sports, or floating the river under the summer sun? Just seven minutes gets you to natural hot springs or to an airport fit for a 706 jet. In twenty, you’re among wild mountain landscapes or the best birding in the nation. In thirty, you’re standing at the edge of spaceport America. And with off-road trails just down the road, the adventure never ends. Nowhere else but here.
In July 1998, the City of Elephant Butte became New Mexico’s 101st incorporated community. For over a year preceding the incorporation, a group of enthusiastic, community-minded citizens completed population census and financial analysis, as well as a surveyed citizen attitudes toward incorporation before the actual vote was held. After incorporation, a solid Mayor and Council form of government was established.
The City of Elephant Butte is home to the largest lake in the state and also The Sierra Del Rio Golf Course. We are the premier destination for recreational boating in the beautiful state of New Mexico. Enjoy our local restaurants, hotels, motels, fishing guides, watercraft sales and rentals, city park and our beautiful walking trail.
Elephant Butte is a unique community with friendly customer service oriented staff. Residents and visitors enjoy a relaxing time at The Sierra Del Rio Golf Course for a round of 18-hole golf course, restaurant and bar, pro-shop all with breathtaking views of Turtleback Mountain.
Our City hosts annual events which can be viewed on our City Calendar. We have a grand Community Center to accommodate large gatherings. Schedule your event today.
We offer a relaxing “Lake Lifestyle” community and invite you to come live and work where you play.
Population
Sierra County Population
Land Area
Sierra County Land Area
Year Founded
Our Mission
The Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the general welfare and prosperity of the Elephant Butte area. Our mission is to ensure that citizens and businesses flourish by promoting economic growth, civic engagement, and commercial, cultural, industrial, and educational development.
Our Vision
Our vision is to build a diverse and sustainable business climate that fosters job growth, workforce development, and economic prosperity in Elephant Butte and the surrounding region.
Our Purpose
The Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based business association that serves Elephant Butte and nearby communities. Our focus is on two key priorities:
1. Creating an Environment Where Businesses Can Prosper
We support businesses through:
- Strategic networking opportunities
- Engagement in policies that impact businesses
- Promotional opportunities and educational programs
- Business services that add value to our members
- A dedicated Chamber staff committed to teamwork, excellence, and diversity
2. Enhancing the Community’s Quality of Life
Elephant Butte is a remarkable place to live, work, and do business. The Chamber is dedicated to:
- Advocating for policies that drive economic prosperity and job growth
- Encouraging workforce development and business diversity
- Strengthening infrastructure and education to support local businesses
- Collaborating with government, nonprofit, and educational sectors to build a thriving business community
Meet Our Board
If you would like to get ahold of any of the board member or have questions or concerns please click on the “Let’s Chat!” bottom, send us the message and we will get back to you.
Earl Greer
President
Jane Tinon
Vice President
Staci Avendano
Secretary
Lena Mena
Treasurer
Ron Gilworth
Board Member
Rick Redpath
Board Member
Bruce Swingle
Board Member
Jesse Thorpe
Board Member
Explore the Wild Side of Elephant Butte
Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico’s largest reservoir, is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a thriving ecosystem that supports a rich variety of wildlife. The lake and its surrounding habitats are home to numerous bird species, fish, and other animals, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Birdwatching Paradise
From September through May, Elephant Butte Lake State Park becomes a prime spot for birdwatching. Visitors can observe American white pelicans, western and Clark’s grebes, various terns, gulls, loons, waders, cranes and ducks. Notable birding locations include North Lake, Percha Dam, Long Point, Three Sisters Point, and South Monticello Point. The area also attracts migrating horned larks and longspurs, especially in the southern regions of the park.
Angler’s Delight
The lake is renowned for its diverse fish population, offering excellent opportunities for anglers. Species commonly found include largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass (stripers), white bass, walleye, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The presence of shad and sunfish provides a robust forage base, supporting a healthy fishery. Wiper (hybrid striped bass) fish were recently introduced to Caballo Lake in southern New Mexico as a pilot program to provide a new sport fishing opportunity.
Diverse Wildlife
Beyond birds and fish, the area supports a variety of other wildlife. Within 30 minutes you can drive to the Gila national forest and Cibola national forest where you can find mammals such as mule deer, coyotes, trophy elk, bear, antelope, wild turkey, and jackrabbits, along with reptiles like lizards and snakes. Ibeks and Oryx are also 30 minutes east of Elephant Butte. The diverse habitats around the lake, including desert scrub and riparian zones, contribute to this rich biodiversity.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a passionate angler, or simply a nature lover, Elephant Butte Lake offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant ecosystems of New Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce?
The Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based organization dedicated to supporting local businesses, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the community’s quality of life through advocacy, networking, and events.
How do I become a member of the Chamber?
You can become a member by filling out an application online or visiting the Chamber office. Membership benefits include networking opportunities, promotional support, and access to Chamber events.
What are the benefits of joining the Chamber?
Members receive:
- Business directory listing
- Networking and referral opportunities
- Marketing and promotional support
- Advocacy for business-friendly policies
- Access to exclusive events and workshops
Does the Chamber help new businesses in the area?
Yes! The Chamber provides resources, referrals, and networking to help new businesses establish themselves in Elephant Butte. We also offer guidance on local business regulations, licensing, and marketing.
What events does the Chamber host?
The Chamber organizes several events, including business networking mixers, community celebrations, and signature events like the Balloon Regatta, Elephant Butte Golf Tournament, 5:01 Business Mixers and more! Check our Events Calendar for upcoming activities.
How can I volunteer or get involved with Chamber events?
We welcome community volunteers! You can sign up through our website, attend Chamber meetings, or contact us directly for opportunities.
Does the Chamber support tourism and economic development in Elephant Butte?
Absolutely! We provide visitor information, lodging recommendations, infrastructure data, and local attraction guides to promote Elephant Butte as a premier destination for recreation and business.