In 2009, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association founded the King Service Award to recognize the memory and accomplishments of former Governor Bruce King and his beloved wife Alice. Together and individually, they enriched the lives of many New Mexicans.
The King Service Award honors an individual whose talents and demeanor positively impact communities in every corner of New Mexico and inspire those around them to take action, too.
Boe Lopez was recently recognized as the 2023 recipient of the King Service Award. Boe was born and raised in Springer, New Mexico. He holds a bachelor’s in business finance from University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Business and a master’s in agriculture business from New Mexico State University.
NMCGA President Bronson Corn said “Boe is very involved in state and local organizations throughout New Mexico, and he understands the dedication and desire it takes to be a real leader.”
He is a fourth-generation rancher at the Diamond Arrow Ranch, running a cow-calf operation and occasionally yearlings depending on drought conditions. His family also owns a plumbing, heating, and septic business along with interest in telepharmacies in New Mexico.
Lopez is active in New Mexico agriculture, serving on the board of the United States Cattlemen and is the past second vice president for New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau. He’s a member of New Mexico Cattle Growers and an advisory member for the New Mexico State Land Office. He was appointed to the New Mexico Soil Commission and he also serves as chairman for the Colfax County Soil and Water Conservation District, executive committee member for the Colfax County Fair Board. Lopez was recently appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the New Mexico Beef Council.
Lopez serves as the mayor for Springer and has been successful in acquiring monies to make improvements to the electrical system, water system and waste water system. He also worked with the governor to acquire monies to build a new home for the elderly. Every fourth Tuesday, the town issues commodities to community members in need and Lopez is there to help bag and distribute food.
New Mexico State University College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences recently recognized Lopez as a distinguished county Extension agent for his outstanding contributions to the college during the past year. He was also recognized by the House of Representatives of the State of New Mexico honoring the response during the Hermit’s Peak-Calf Canyon Fire. The Legislature of the State of New Mexico having learned of the accomplishments of Lopez recognized him as a kind and loving New Mexican for his commitment to agriculture and legislative involvement and his advocacy for the industry.
