Submissions are now open for the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s (NMDOT) third annual Name a Snowplow Contest, with residents invited to propose creative and winter-themed names for state snowplows. The contest runs until noon on December 26, 2025.
NMDOT will assign the top 12 winning entries to snowplows that clear roads in each of the state’s six highway districts this winter. “Our snowplow operators play an important role in keeping our communities connected and our roads safe during the winter months,” said NMDOT Cabinet Secretary Ricky Serna. “We’re looking to New Mexicans for their flair, humor and originality to help give more of our snowplows unique names.”
The contest is open to all New Mexicans, who may submit one name each via dot.nm.gov/name-a-plow/. Names must be no longer than 20 characters, and submissions containing vulgar language or political references will not be considered. Previously selected NMDOT snowplow names are also ineligible for this year’s competition.
After submissions close, NMDOT’s Communication team will select the 50 most creative names for public voting. The top 12 choices from that vote will then be assigned to snowplows statewide. Winning names will be announced publicly, and each named plow retains its designation throughout its service with NMDOT.
In previous years, winning entries have included “Snow Bueno,” “Taylor Drift,” “Blizzard Wizard,” and “Ctrl-Salt-Delete.” The initiative aims to engage the community while highlighting the essential work performed by snowplow operators during New Mexico’s winter season.
