from a truly international dynamic that influences business, education, and community life. With a strong commitment to sustainable growth and strategic development, the city is focused on leveraging its geographic advantage to create new opportunities for businesses and residents. “Our long-term vision is to grow from within,” says Cassie Arias-Ward, Economic Development Coordinator. “That means supporting our existing industry—especially in key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing—while creating opportunities for both retention and recruitment of families.” SUPPLY CHAIN STRENGTH Agriculture remains one of Deming’s economic pillars, with large-scale production of crops such as green chilies, onions, pecans, and cotton. The city is home to Olam Food Ingredients, the world’s largest green chili and jalapeno processor, supplying major food distributors nationwide. The region’s warm climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for high-yield farming, supporting small family farms and large agricultural enterprises. Irrigation infrastructure from the Mimbres Basin and regional aquifers further enhances productivity, ensuring a steady supply for processing facilities and markets across the country. Manufacturing in Deming is equally robust, focusing on food processing, packaging, and renewable energy components. The city’s strategic location along major transportation corridors facilitates efficient supply chain management. Lescombes Family Vineyards, New Mexico’s largest winery, operates its bottling facility in Deming, producing various wines distributed across the Southwest and beyond. In addition to food-related manufacturing, the city has seen an increase in interest from solar energy companies, capitalizing on the area’s 340 days of sunshine annually. With one of the region’s 24-hour crossing, Deming benefits from a demographic often unnoticed in conventional economic reports. “We have 800 U.S. citizen students who cross the border daily to attend school here,” Ward notes. “It’s a truly binational community, which makes our workforce unique.”The port facilitates the movement of raw agricultural goods and finished products, allowing businesses in Deming to trade with Mexico and other U.S. markets efficiently. DRIVING INDUSTRIAL GROWTH Deming’s geographical advantage plays a crucial role in attracting businesses. Positioned as the midpoint between Los Angeles/Long Beach and Houston ports, the city offers a logistical edge that can significantly impact a company’s bottom line. “We market our strengths as ‘place, price, and profit,’” Ward explains. “We have access to air, rail, and interstate transport, making it easier for companies to move goods efficiently and cost-effectively.” The city owns a 1,400-foot rail spur in its northern industrial park, which features 1,500 acres of 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 DEMING, NM
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