New Mexico Highlands University has reached a settlement with the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), through its Hazardous Waste Bureau, resolving an environmental compliance matter related to hazardous waste management at the Ivan Hilton Science Building identified during a 2024 inspection.
The agreement reflects the university’s cooperation with NMED and the corrective actions Highlands implemented to address the issue and strengthen environmental safety and compliance practices.
Since late 2024, the university has enhanced hazardous waste management procedures, expanded employee training, improved inspection and documentation protocols, and upgraded safety systems associated with laboratory operations.
The settlement also includes an education and outreach component through which Highlands will share best practices and provide hazardous waste training resources with high schools across New Mexico, consistent with the university’s public mission.
“This resolution allows us to move forward with stronger systems in place and a clear focus on safety and accountability,” said NMHU President Dr. Neil Woolf. “We appreciate NMED’s collaborative approach throughout this process.”
The agreement resolves the matter, subject to completion of the remaining requirements outlined in the settlement.