NMVFO plans 20+ volunteer work projects each year. Click here for a printable overview of the 2024 project season, and check back often for additional information posted as it becomes available. To receive updates and detailed information about upcoming projects and events, be sure to sign up for the NMVFO newsletter on the Home page. Public land agencies that are interested in proposing a project should contact our Projects Team (projects@nmvfo.org) for more information and our easy-to-complete project proposal form.
If you’re new to NMVFO, be sure to visit our FAQ page to learn more about what to expect on a project. Project leaders are always happy to answer your questions about specific projects. Have a non-project related question? Send us a message from our Contact page. Pets are not allowed on any NMVFO projects. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or other legal guardian
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Trail Workshop Practical
March 19, 2016
Contact Leader(s): Larry Benson, L.Benson@nmvfo.org; Chris Fritzsche, 505-504-3768, fritzsche.christopher@gmail.com with any questions.
Have you ever wondered about how the trails you hike or bike on are built and sustained? In partnership with REI and the Albuquerque Open Space Division, the New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors is conducting a 2-part introduction to trail construction and maintenance on March 17 and 19.
On Thursday March 17 at 6:00 pm, an indoor workshop will be offered at the REI Store, 1550 Mercantile NE. Two experienced NMVFO project leaders will discuss the fundamentals of trail work with an illustrated presentation featuring recent projects on public lands throughout New Mexico and a display of various tools used. Two U.S. Forest Service videos will also show how volunteers refurbish and improve trails. The presenters will answer questions and provide a list of NMVFO projects scheduled in 2016. Please register for this class at http://www.rei.com/events/nmvfo-trail-construction-maintenance-workshop/albuquerque/133528.
After attending the indoor class at the REI Store on March 17, those interested in practicing how to do trail work will have the chance for some on-the-job training at the Simms Park/Elena Gallegos Open Space on Saturday, March 19, under the auspices of the Albuquerque Open Space Division. Experienced trail workers are also invited to help demonstrate techniques and provide guidance. Here’s a photo from last year’s field training:
We’ll meet at the Kiwanis Group Shelter on Saturday no later than 8:00 AM. Some fruit and snacks will be provided, and Starbucks coffee will be available for those who come early enough. We’ll then carpool to a trail head, pick up tools, and hike to the work area. Participants should dress for the weather, and wear sturdy boots, long pants, long sleeve shirts, work gloves, and sun protection. Also bring a day pack with water, snacks, and other necessities. We should be finished by mid-afternoon, but participants may leave early if necessary.
Directions: From Tramway Blvd between Academy and Paseo Del Norte, take Simms Road east toward the mountains. Just past the visitors’ center at the entrance, immediately turn left and take the road going north about 3/10 mile to the parking lot in front of the Kiwanis Picnic Shelter.
Experienced NMVFO volunteers who would like to help on March 19 should notify Larry Benson at LawRBenson@aol.com and Chris Fritzsche at fritzsche.christopher@gmail.com by March 17.