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New Mexico Mining Association (NMMA) 87th Annual Convention and Trade Show

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Dr. Virginia McLemore, NMBGMR Lead Research Scientist (Economic Geologist) addresses the audience at the 87th Annual NMMA Convention and Trade Show held in Santa Fe
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2026 Rebecca Boakye
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Students had the opportunity to showcase their research at the event.
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2026 Rebecca Boakye
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Dr. John Rakovan, NMBGMR Mineralogist/Senior Mineral Museum Curator presented a talk about the New Mexico Mineral Museum.
(click for a larger version)
2026 Rebecca Boakye

By Rebecca Boakye, Research Associate III
NMBGMR

Santa Fe
September 24, 2026

Members of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources participated in the 87th Annual NMMA Convention and Trade Show held in Santa Fe, which brought together researchers, industry professionals and students to share research and engage with New Mexico’s mining community. Dr. Virginia McLemore, Lead Research Scientist, presented on critical minerals and training the workforce in New Mexico, highlighting the importance and potential of critical mineral resources, outreach activities, and training students across the state. Dr. John Rakovan, Mineralogist/Senior Mineral Museum Curator, presented on the New Mexico Mineral Museum and encouraged attendees to visit and explore its mineral collections. He also discussed efforts to designate smithsonite as New Mexico’s official state mineral. Students presentedposters highlighting their ongoing research on critical mineral resources, copper isotopes and uranium resources in New Mexico.