Borrego Mesa Trail #150 (Pecos Wilderness)
2021-08-28 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Denver)
RESULTS: On August 28 , 2021, eight volunteers (with 2 cooks providing meals) maintained approximately 2.75 miles of trail in the Pecos Wilderness, lopping, removing downfall, and improving tread.

Show More

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Come join us as we clear deadfall (trees that have fallen across the trail), brush, and perform other trail work along the Borrego Mesa Trail #150 in the Pecos Wilderness Area of the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF)! We’ll be car-camping near the trailhead on Friday evening off of FR 306 near Cordova, NM at around 8600’ elevation. Dinner Friday evening and breakfast Saturday morning will be provided by the NMVFO. COVID protocols will be employed. The drive to parking for the trailhead requires high-clearance vehicles; carpooling may be necessary for a short distance.
The hike to the work area will begin with a 600′ descent in elevation followed by a short stream crossing. The rest of the hike is gentle elevation gain next to a small stream.
You are welcome to join us on Friday evening (for dinner and camping) or Saturday morning (for breakfast or at the start of the project). Just let us know what your plans are by contacting Gena Robertson at g.robertson@nmvfo.org.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.

Juan Tomas (ABQ Open Space)
2021-08-21 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: Sixteen NMVFO volunteers and five Open Space Division personnel completed the central section of a new connector trail through the forest on the eastern edge of the 1300-acre Juan Tomas Open Space in the Manzanita Mountains. Volunteers removed grass, shrubs, roots, and levelled ground to create a 2-foot wide tread along. Although most of the route was flat, they carved a bench on about 60 feet of slopping terrain and build one rock retaining wall.

Show More

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Albuquerque’s Open Space Division maintains five areas east of the Sandia and Manzanita Mountains. The largest of these is the Juan Tomas Open Space, which encompasses 1,290 acres of primarily pinon-juniper and ponderosa forest growing at elevations up to 7,760 feet. It lies adjacent to the Sandia Ranger District’s Oak Flat Group Picnic Area and an extensive multi-use trail network.
Description: We will be using a variety of tools to clear vegetation and excavate the forest floor to create about a half mile of new trail that will connect two existing trails. Construction of rock retaining walls may be included. The hikes to and from the ends of the new trail will average about a mile over mostly level terrain. Participants should wear sturdy boots or work shoes (no sandals or soft shoes), long pants, hats, and other apparel appropriate for the predicted weather, especially rain gear if the Monsoon season is active. Also bring work gloves and a day pack with water, snacks, lunch, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and personal items. We will likely finish before 4:00 pm, but if not volunteers are welcome to leave earlier if necessary.
Check in August for our latest pandemic precautions at COVID-19 Protocols. If the project becomes full, you can email Larry to be put on a waitlist. Update(s) with more details will be sent to registrants before the project.
Meeting Place: Take the Tijeras exit (#175) from Interstate 40 and drive south on State Highway 337 for 9 miles (passing by Juan Tomas Road). Turn east (left) on Oak Flat Road. Continue driving for about 2.5 miles. Turn into the dirt parking area on the left side of the road (in front of a pipe gate) as shown in this satellite view: Link to Map
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: up to 20
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Sierra Mosca Trail #156 Backpack (Santa Fe NF)
2021-08-13 18:00 - 2021-08-15 16:00
RESULTS: Five volunteers, and Lynn from USFS, cleared 122 deadfalls along 3.2 miles of the Sierra Mosca Trail in the Pecos Wilderness. They hiked in 5 miles along Borrego Trail to get to the work site.

Show More

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join NMVFO on a weekend unsupported backpack project (“unsupported” means: bring and cook your own food, help carry in all tools) on the Sierra Trail #156 in the Pecos Wilderness. We will hike from Borrego Trailhead 4.0 miles along Borrego #150 to a campsite near the intersection of trails #150 and #156, near the Rito Gallina. Work will involve sawing to clear blowdowns and some lopping, on a section of Sierra Mosca Trail.
The Sierra Mosca work will combine with two other recent NMVFO projects, Rito Quemado and Rio Molina, to provide loop hiking opportunities from Borrego Mesa.
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: up to 12
Location: We will meet at the turn-off to Borrego Trailhead at the junction with Forest Road 306. Google Maps does not give the correct route to Borrego Trailhead, so follow the route to Borrego Mesa Campground (Google Maps link) but turn right and park when you see the sign “Borrego Trail, Rio Medio, Rio Nambe” 2 miles before the campground. The last 20 minutes of the drive is on a series of graded dirt county and forest service roads, passable in a low clearance vehicles with sufficient care (and no recent torrential rains), but a high clearance vehicle will be a happier drive. We will meet on Friday, 6:30PM (with later arrivals by prior arrangement).
Please bring:
• Your own face mask and work gloves (required)
• Eye protection (sunglasses)
• Gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy boots as required by Forest Service rules
• A packing list will be provided in an update to this listing. Bring a backpack, tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad, water bottles, sufficient meals. We will supply group water filters, but you can also bring your own. Hot water will be available if you do not have your own backpacking stove.
NMVFO/Forest Service will provide the tools and hard hats. If you need any backpacking equipment, please email the project leader, who will be glad to help.
We expect to begin hiking back to our cars on Sunday, August 15, late afternoon.
Current Covid-19 protocols will be enforced. Details will be provided prior to the start of the project.
Please note that pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Rito Quemado Trail #157 (Pecos Wilderness)
2021-07-31 08:00 - 2021-08-01 16:00
RESULTS: On July 30th and 31 st , fourteen NMVFO volunteers car camped on the Borrego Mesa and cleared brush and eight deadfalls on the one-mile stretch of the Rito Quemado Trail from the trailhead to the Rio Medio. The volunteers could not go farther because high flows in the Rio Medio prevented them from crossing.

Show More

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join NMVFO on a car-camping project to clear downed trees, remove brush and improve the tread along the Rito Quemado Trail #157 in the Pecos Wilderness of the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF). We will camp at the Borrego Mesa Trailhead. Breakfasts and dinners (except for Thursday evening) will be provided by NMVFO. Current Forest Service COVID-19 protocols will be employed. Specific details will be provided after you sign up.
Reminder: Pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Meet at: Borrego Mesa Trailhead Coordinates 35.98839, -105.81250 Please contact the project leader with questions.
How to find us: Look for the green NMVFO signs starting at Forest Road 306 southwest of Cordova.
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Skyline Trail Backpack (Santa Fe NF)
2021-07-15 08:00 - 2021-07-18 15:00
RESULTS: On July 15th eleven NMVFO volunteers and a US Forest Service intern backpacked up the Winsor Ridge Trail to a campsite at Stewart Lake in the Pecos Wilderness. In three days, the volunteers cleared 151 trees on 3.5 miles of the Skyline Trail from Stewart Lake towards Horsethief Meadow despite getting rained out on two afternoons by thunderstorms. The Backcountry Horsemen of America supported the project by packing in NMVFO’s tools and equipment.

Show More

PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join NMVFO on a four-day backpacking project to clear downed trees and improve drainage and tread along the popular Skyline Trail. NMVFO will be setting up a base camp at the Intersection of Trails #251 and #271 near Stewart Lake. The Backcountry Horsemen of America will be supporting the project by transporting our tools and equipment to the base camp. The base camp will be about 5.8 miles from the Winsor Ridge trailhead (#271) located near Cowles, NM. While the project starts on Thursday, July 15th, you are welcome to join us on Friday or Saturday and spend as much time working with us as you can. NMVFO will supply the tools, water purification equipment, a portable toilet, and a campstove to heat water for rehydrating meals and for hot drinks. Volunteers will need to bring their own food but will be reimbursed at $15/day.
NMVFO will be practicing the then current Covid-19 protocols on this project. Specific details will be provided prior to the start of the project.
Reminder- Pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Please sign up at NMVFO.org by July 10th, 2020.
Meeting Location: Parking area next to Pecos River at 35.81224, -105.65910
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.
This project is full but you can still sign up to be put on the waitlist.
Sign Up

Adopt-a-Trail #24 (Carson NF)
2021-06-26 08:00 - 2021-06-27 12:00
RESULTS: Seven volunteers worked along NMVFO’s adopted trail on the Carson NF: the first two miles of Middle Fork Trail #24, which follows the middle fork of the Rio Santa Barbara from the Santa Barbara CG to the “smokejumper” bridge. Volunteers removed 14 logs encroaching on (or across) the trail; re-defined the line of tread in several braided or trenched-out areas, closing less desirable lines; re-benched sections which had become too outsloped; and removed encroaching brush as needed.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Rework tread and brush back the trail.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: 5
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Winsor Trail #254 (Santa Fe NF)
2021-06-10 17:00 - 2021-06-13 15:00
RESULTS: 11 volunteers removed protruding rocks and roots and levelled tread on 4,220 feet of the Winsor trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join us on a car-camping project to improve drainage and tread along the popular Winsor Trail. We will be setting up a base camp at the Aspen Basin area adjacent to the lower Ski Santa Fe parking lot. The work area will start about 1.7 miles from the Winsor trailhead, which is located near the restrooms on the north side of the parking lot.
All tools will be provided. USFS rules require us to wear heavy boots, long pants, long sleeves, hard hats (provided) and eye protection (sunglasses okay) while working. Please also bring a large daypack to carry lunch, snacks, sunblock, rain gear, and a full-day’s supply of water.
Volunteers will need to provide their own camping gear, including tent, sleeping bag and pad, camp chair, headlamp, etc., plus a cooler/beverages if desired. Breakfasts and dinners (except for Thursday evening) will be provided; volunteers will supply their own lunches and snacks. Please bring your own plate, bowl, utensils, and coffee mug. There is room at the parking lot for RVs. There are pit toilets but no potable water, so please bring as much of your own water as possible. The cooks and project leader will also bring several containers, as well as filters to take water from the creek.
We will adhere to current Forest Service Covid-19 protocols. Specific details will be provided prior to the start of the project.
Reminder: Pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Meet at: Aspen Basin at the Santa Fe Ski Basin Lower Parking lot, GPS Trailhead Coordinates N35° 47.698’ W105° 48.262’ Please contact the project leader with any questions.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.
This project is full but you can still sign up to be put on the waitlist.

El Porvenir Trail (Pecos Wilderness)
2021-06-05 08:30 - 15:00
RESULTS: 12 Volunteers were able to clear 15 trees that blocked or encroached on the trail all the way to the Hollinger Trail junction about five miles from the trailhead and cut back brush on almost three miles of trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join NMVFO for a trail improvement project on the El Porvenir Trail in the Pecos Wilderness along the beautiful Beaver Creek. We’ll be cutting back brush that has encroached onto the trail and clearing trees and branches that have fallen across the trail.
We’ll meet at the El Porvenir Trailhead next to the El Porvenir Campground at the end of State Highway 65 at 8:30 am on June 5, 2021. The hike to the work site is approximately 1 mile.
Please bring:
• Your own face mask and work gloves (required)
• Eye protection (sunglasses)
• A day pack with sunblock, lunch, snacks, and plenty of water
The Forest Service requires that trail workers wear work gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy boots, and a hard hat. NMVFO/Forest Service will provide the tools and hard hats.
Then current Covid-19 protocols will be enforced. Details will be provided prior to the start of the project.
Please note that pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: Up to 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at Volunteer FAQ, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Holy Ghost Trail Maintenance (Pecos Wilderness)
2021-06-05 08:30 - 15:00
RESULTS: A group of ten NMVFO volunteers partnered with the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest to participate in National Trails Day by improving SFNF Trail 283. In preparation, Larry Benson (project organizer) and Phyllis Martinez (project work leader) hiked the trail on May 18 to see what needed to be done. On June 5 the group divided into three teams. One team widened and leveled about 250 feet of tread and trimmed overgrowth on the first mile of the trail. Another team installed a log bridge and placed stepping rocks to provide five stream crossings and fill in a muddy depression. And the last team bucked and cleared six fallen trees all the way up to the top of the trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Come help NMVFO and the Santa Fe National Forest observe National Trails Day by working on the popular Holy Ghost Trail near Tererro, NM. We’ll be cutting back brush that has encroached onto the trail, clearing trees and branches that have fallen across the trail, and improving the trail tread. Co-leader Phyllis Martinez will help supervise our work. The Forest Service requires that trail workers wear work gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy boots, and a hard hat. NMVFO will provide the tools and hard hats. Please bring your own face mask and work gloves, eye protection (sunglasses), and a day pack with sunblock, lunch, snacks, plenty of water, and raingear if precipitation is in the latest forecast. Please note that pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects. We will be following the Covid-19 protocols current at the time, with details to be provided prior to the start of the project. Please sign up by June 3.
Directions: We’ll meet at 8:30 AM at the Holy Ghost Trailhead near the Holy Ghost Campground on Forest Road 122. This is approximately 95 miles (or 1.5 hours) from the intersection of I-40 and I-25 (Albuquerque’s “Big I”). Take I-25 to the Glorietta exit (# 299) and follow NM 50 to Pecos. Go north on NM 63 about 15 miles to Holy Ghost Canyon Road (FR 122), which is just before reaching the village of Tererro. Drive up FR 122 about 2 miles to the campground (which has vaulted toilets available) and trailhead. Campsites cost $8.00 per vehicle and are first come/first served if you are interested in camping before or after the project.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: Up to 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at Volunteer FAQ, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Railroad Canyon (Gila NF)
2021-05-19 13:00 - 2021-05-24 09:00
RESULTS: Over the course of four days NMVFO partnered with the NM Back Country Horsemen, Gila Chapter, to remove hundreds of downed trees, brush back over 4 miles of trail, re-bench and improve tread along 2 miles of trail, and build 16 cairns on the Gallinas and East Railroad Canyon trails near Emory Pass in the Gila.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Come join NMVFO and the Gila chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of NM as we partner to maintain some trails on the west side of Emory Pass in the Gila. Trails will include Railroad Canyon, Gallinas Canyon, and East Railroad Canyon. This is a car-camping project with a fair amount of hiking each day, including one day where volunteers (any who choose to) will hike 3-plus miles one way to the work site, with significant elevation gain. Tasks will include re-benching trail and some brushwork. All tools will be provided. USFS rules require us to wear heavy boots, long pants, long sleeves, hard hats (provided) and eye protection (sunglasses okay) while working. Please also bring a large daypack to carry lunch, snacks, sunblock, rain gear, and a full-day’s supply of water.
We will meet at 1:00 PM on Wednesday May 19th at the Iron Creek Campground near Emory Pass, which is also where we will camp. Please arrive at the campground in plenty of time to get set up and settled in before we “circle up” (the project leader will be there to greet you and point out sites). Volunteers will need to provide their own camping gear, including tent, sleeping bag and pad, camp chair, headlamp, etc, plus a cooler/beverages if desired. Breakfasts and dinners will be provided; volunteers will supply their own lunches and snacks. Please bring your own plate, bowl, utensils, and coffee mug. There is room at the campground for small trailers. There are pit toilets but no potable water, so please bring as much of your own water as possible. The cooks and project leader will also bring several containers, as well as filters to take water from the creek.
As a reminder, pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
If you’d like to join us, please sign up below by Tuesday May 11th. See you there!
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.

Pueblo Park (Gila NF, Glenwood RD)
2021-05-13 08:00 - 2021-05-15 16:00
RESULTS: Six NMVFO volunteers joined volunteers from New Mexico Wild and Heart of the Gila to improve navigability along 3 trails in the Glenwood RD of the Gila.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: NMVFO is partnering with Heart of the Gila and New Mexico Wild on a trail maintenance project on the Gila National Forest’s Glenwood Ranger District. Located in a stand of old growth ponderosas, the Pueblo Park Campground (road map) is a perfect jumping-off point to the WS Mountain Trail and the Dangerous Park Trail. We will also work on the Cottonwood Trail, which intersects with Dangerous Park. Work will include brushing, deadfall removal, reestablishing washed-out tread, and possibly some creek-crossing reconstruction in the canyons. Five volunteers plus one leader will work in each crew. Hikes to work sites could be up to 4 miles for those who choose the more distant sites. Tools will be provided.
Volunteers will be asked to bring their own face masks and work gloves, both mandatory. Also mandatory: Sturdy boots, long pants, long sleeves when doing brush work or saw work, eye protection (sunglasses), and hard hats (provided). Each day volunteers will need to bring a day pack, rain gear, sun protection, lunch and snacks, and enough water for a full day of work. Mornings will be chilly and afternoons are likely to be hot, so layers are recommended.
For camping, volunteers are asked to supply their own gear, including a tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, headlamp and camp chair, as well as their own plate, bowl, eating utensils and coffee mug. Camping will be available the night before the project begins (Wednesday night) and the night the project ends (Saturday night). It is highly recommended that you arrive on Wednesday evening. The campground can accommodate vehicles up to 40’ in length, but there are no hookups. There are vault toilets and picnic tables at the campground. There is no water at the campground, but water will be provided. Volunteers may wish to bring a supplemental supply as well. Cooks will provide breakfast May 13th, 14th & 15th, and dinner May 13th & 14th. Feel free to bring your own coolers and beverages! Please leave pets at home.
Please sign up below by Wednesday, May 5th. You can contact Jenny B for more info or to be added to the waitlist once the project fills.
Should be a great project! Hope to see you there!
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: 10
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.

Middle Fork Backpack (Gila NF)
2021-04-27 08:00 - 2021-05-02 15:00
RESULTS: Sixteen volunteers from NMVFO and the Continental Divide Trail Coalition joined the Back Country Horsemen of NM, Gila Chapter, on the CDT along the Middle Fork of the Gila River. Volunteers removed 135 logs, built 30 cairns, cleared corridor, and realigned or improved several sections of tread along 5 miles of trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: NMVFO is partnering with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) and the Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico, Gila Chapter (BCH) on a backcountry trail maintenance project near the middle fork of the Gila River. We will clear corridor and re-establish tread along this alternate route of the Continental Divide Trail. We will meet at the Aeroplane Mesa Campground at 8:00 AM on April 27th. Camping in the vicinity the night before is highly recommended. The hike to basecamp is approximately 4 miles, and we will work mainly upstream from there. The first and last days will be hiking days bookending the trail work, with a half-day in the middle to relax and explore the surrounding area.
The BCH will provide horse support. At basecamp, water will be filtered daily from the Gila River. All tools and PPE will be provided, as well as dinner Apr 27-May 1 and breakfast Apr 28-May 2 (not Apr 27). You will need to provide and carry your own lunches, backpack, tent and sleeping bag/pad. Prior to the start date, CDTC will send out a packing checklist and other information to those who have registered, including directions to our meeting place.
Hope you can join us!
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: 10
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Bosque Trail (Mountainair RD)
2021-04-24 08:30 - 2021-04-25 15:00
RESULTS: 16 volunteers worked 2 days refurbishing just under 3 miles of trail by brushing back overgrowth. They also removed 4 deadfall from the trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Come join us in the Manzanos! We will climb up Bosque Trail – elevation gain 1200’, distance 2 miles – to the Manzano Crest Trail, where we will clear a few fallen trees on upper Bosque. At the Crest Trail we will go south about 1.5 miles and brush back a heavily overgrown section. On Sunday we will go back up Bosque and work north for about a mile. Because of the distance and elevation gain this is at least a moderately difficult project (2 Pulaskis).
Camping will be available Friday and Saturday night at the Bosque Trailhead, which has a few tables and a pit toilet. Meals will be provided Saturday morning, Saturday night and Sunday morning. Bring your own food for lunch Saturday and your own drinks. Also, you will need to provide your own camping gear. Joining us for part of the weekend will be fine. Please let the project leader know. Long shirt, long pants, work gloves and (sun)glasses are required. No pets are allowed on NMVFO projects.
Pandemic Protocols: The project will be limited to 15 volunteers, divided into separate teams of 5 or fewer. Masks are mandatory. Except for people from the same household, carpooling will not be possible. If you wake up with any symptoms of Covid-19 or do not feel well for any reason, please don’t hesitate to stay home. For more information, go to https://nmvfo.org/covid-19-protocols/.
Directions: Go east from Albuquerque to the Tijeras exit and take Highway 337 south about 30 miles to the “T” junction with Highway 55. There turn right (west) and follow it 3 miles to Tajique. In Tajique turn right on the Fourth of July Campground Road (well signed, at the old stone church and graveyard) and take the good dirt road 7 miles to the Fourth of July Campground. Continue past the campground 3 miles where the road gets much rougher and more rutted. High clearance vehicles are needed for these last 3 miles. If you plan to show up Saturday morning please be there before 8:30 am.
Please sign up below by Monday, April 19th.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Perea Nature Area (BLM Rio Puerco)
2021-04-10 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: Thirteen NMVFO volunteers joined two BLM employees and two interns to perform a variety of tasks that improved the area. Their work included transporting and spreading an estimated 15 tons of gravel onto parts of the main trail and side trails, including numerous steps leading to bridges; closing and revegetating several unapproved social trails with brush and transplanted cactuses; reconstructing the area’s dilapidated wildlife viewing shelter; cutting and trimming plants intruding on the trail’s multiple bridges; and pruning an old Cottonwood tree with branches overhanging a bench.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

The Perea Nature Trail makes a one-mile loop through a riparian area adjacent to the normally dry Rio Salado. Located on level terrain and constructed with a gravel surface, the trail crosses the old riverbed on wooden bridges and takes visitors past bird-viewing stops and benches. Click here For an informative brochure.
Description: We will be improving the condition of the trail by shoring up eroding segments of the tread, trimming back overgrown vegetation, and removing bunch grasses and noxious weeds from and alongside the trail. We may also partially reconstruct a bird-viewing shelter. Phyllis Martinez (co-leader), a recently retired USFS trail working expert, and Jackie Leyba of the BLM will be supervising the work. Volunteers are advised to wear sturdy boots or shoes, work gloves, and dress in layers based on the latest weather forecast. Also bring a day pack with a couple liters of water, snacks, food for lunch, and personal items. Depending on attendance, we may well finish work by mid-afternoon, but volunteers may leave earlier if need be. To register for this project, click on the sign-up button at the bottom of this page by April 8. If you are bringing another family member or guest, fill out a separate form for them.
Pandemic Protocols: The project will be limited to 15 volunteers, divided into separate teams of 5 or fewer. Masks are mandatory, and volunteers will endeavor to maintain social distancing as they work. Except for people from the same household, carpooling will not be possible. If you wake up with any symptoms of Covid-19 or do not feel well for any reason, please don’t hesitate to stay home. For more information on our protocols click here.
Directions: The trail’s parking lot is located on US 550 about 23 miles west from its intersection with I-25 in Bernalillo. Just after crossing a bridge over the Rio Salado, turn left into the parking lot. There is a Speedway gas station/convenience store less than a half mile farther west on 550 on the outskirts of the village of San Ysidro. It has snacks, coffee, other drinks, and indoor facilities (to which volunteers can drive during the work day if necessary). Here is a Google map.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size:
No more than 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at our Volunteer FAQ’s, or Larry at l.benson@nmvfo.org.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.
Sign Up

Trail Workshop - Field (ABQ Open Space)
2021-03-13 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: Eleven volunteers and 6 CABQ OSD staff built a new (rerouted) trail at Route 66 Open Space.

Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: This workshop builds on skills learned in our March 12th “Outdoor Classroom” Workshop, but anyone is welcome to attend!
This trail work training project with the Albuquerque Open Space Division follows the introductory session held at Elena Gallegos Open Space on March 12. Volunteers are welcome to sign up for either project, or for both. During the Field Workshop, experienced Open Space and NMVFO trail workers will help mentor new volunteers as we re-route an eroding trail at the Route 66 Open Space. This year the project is a little more rock-work-based than usual, but there will be lighter work too, something for everyone. Tasks will include building new trail, seeking out and moving large rocks, building rock structures to buttress new trail, harvesting cactus, and closing eroded trail segments with check dams and transplanted cactus. The hike to the work site is roughly half a mile. All tools will be provided.
Please bring your own face mask and work gloves, both required. Eye protection is also required (sunglasses okay). Participants should wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes (no soft shoes or sandals!), long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and other apparel appropriate for the predicted weather. A hat is recommended. Please bring a daypack with a rain jacket, snacks, lunch, water, sunscreen, and other personal items. We’ll meet at 8:30 AM at Route 66 Open Space parking, where a staff member will be on hand to open the gate into the property (directions to follow for those who sign up). We will likely finish work by mid-afternoon, but volunteers are welcome to leave earlier if necessary.
A reminder that pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Sign Up

Trail Workshop - Outdoor Classroom (ABQ Open Space)
2021-03-12 10:00 - 14:00
RESULTS: Book learning and hands-on practice. Project leader Jenny Blackmore and CABQ Assistant Open Space Superintendent Jim Sattler taught some trail construction basics. Afterwards class participants built 4 drain dips on the Nature Trail at the Elena Gallegos Open Space.

Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Come learn some trail-building basics at Elena Gallegos Open Space. Entry fees will be waived for workshop attendees. We’ll meet at the Kiwanis Shelter parking lot at 10:00AM to begin an hour or more of “book learning,” followed by an instructional walk-through on a nearby trail and some hands-on practice building rolling dips (drain dips). Tools will be supplied.
This 101 course will provide an important base of knowledge for anyone who also plans to join our hands-on trail-building Trail Workshop – Field the next day, Saturday March 13th. New volunteers are encouraged to join us for one or both of these March workshops. Anyone who would like a skills refresher is welcome too!
Please bring your own face masks and work gloves, both required. Also required: long pants, sturdy boots or shoes, and eye protection (sunglasses). Highly recommended: Pen and notebook; layered clothing for a chilly start and a warm afternoon; a hat; a day pack with water and snacks.
A reminder that pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Please sign up below if you would like to join us.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: 10
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Sign Up

Placitas Open Space (ABQ Open Space)
2021-03-06 08:30 - 15:00
RESULTS: Thirteen NMVFO volunteers and five ABQ Open Space Division staff built reroutes, shored up steep sections of new trail, closed off old trail, installed signage, and built Zuni bowls in an eastern section of CABQ’s Placitas Open Space.

Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Join NMVFO in scenic Placitas Open Space as we build a couple short reroutes, define a trail section through a series of arroyo channels, construct drain dips across an old road, and install a handful of signposts alongside staff from ABQ Open Space Division.
We’ll meet at the historic marker off the frontage road on the south side of NM 165 just east of I-25 (map), then caravan to the trailhead from there. The hike to the work site is approximately 1 mile. Please bring:
• Your own face mask and work gloves (required)
• Eye protection (sunglasses)
• A day pack with sunblock, lunch, snacks and plenty of water
Please wear long pants and sturdy boots. A hat with a brim is strongly recommended, and layers of clothing for a chilly morning and a warm afternoon. A reminder to please leave your pets at home! Any questions, please contact Jenny B.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: 15
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.

Sign Up

Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge (FWS) - CANCELED
2021-02-27 08:00 - 16:30
Due to Covid-19 concerns, Valle de Oro NWR has decided not to run this project at this time.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: 10
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.
Please read our volunteer guidelines before signing up for this project.

Sign Up

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge Tree Planting 2 (FWS) - CANCELED
2021-02-20 08:30 - 16:00
The Sevilleta NWR protects a large area north of Socorro featuring a variety of terrain, flora, and fauna on both sides of the Rio Grande. Photos of last year’s project can be viewed on our Flickr site.
Description: We will be helping to improve the riparian habitat along the Rio Grande, in an area that has been cleared of invasive Tamarisk trees, by pole-planting willows and/or cottonwoods. This will restore an environment favorable to a variety of native wildlife, especially the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Refuge staff will have already drilled holes down to the water table with a large auger and prepared cuttings for planting, so our main job will be inserting these small saplings and back-filling the holes. As this task needs to be done in late winter (before the growing season), please dress for chilly weather and any precipitation depending on the latest forecast for Socorro. The work area may be muddy, so wearing sturdy boots or work shoes is advised. Also bring work gloves and a day pack with lunch, drinks, and snacks. Extra water will be available at the work site. Our work may be completed by early or mid-afternoon depending on attendance.
Pandemic Protocols: The project will be limited to 15 volunteers, divided into separate teams of 5 or fewer. Masks are mandatory, and the extensive areas to be planted will allow volunteers to work individually while maintaining social distancing. Except for people from the same household, carpooling will not be possible. If you wake up with any symptoms of Covid-19 or do not feel well for any reason, please don’t hesitate to stay home. For more information, go to https://nmvfo.org/covid-19-protocols/
Directions: We will meet at the Sevilleta Visitor Center parking lot by 8:30 AM to sign in and take advantage of the indoor plumbing if desired. The center is located 60 miles south of Albuquerque’s “Big-I” on Interstate 25. (Google map) Take Exit 169 and make a sharp right turn at the first intersection. As shown by the map, the Visitor Center is about 1/4 of a mile up this road. From there we will drive in a caravan several miles to the work site on gravel roads that are normally suitable for sedans.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: No more than 15.
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.

Sign up using the button below no later than Thursday, February 18.
Sign Up

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge Tree Planting 1 (FWS) - CANCELED
2021-02-13 08:30 - 16:00
The Sevilleta NWR protects a large area north of Socorro featuring a variety of terrain, flora, and fauna on both sides of the Rio Grande. Photos of last year’s project can be viewed on our Flickr site.
Description: We will be helping to improve the riparian habitat along the Rio Grande, in an area that has been cleared of invasive Tamarisk trees, by pole-planting willows and/or cottonwoods. This will restore an environment favorable to a variety of native wildlife, especially the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Refuge staff will have already drilled holes down to the water table with a large auger and prepared cuttings for planting, so our main job will be inserting these small saplings and back-filling the holes. As this task needs to be done in late winter (before the growing season), please dress for chilly weather and any precipitation depending on the latest forecast for Socorro. The work area may be muddy, so wearing sturdy boots or work shoes is advised. Also bring work gloves and a day pack with lunch, drinks, and snacks. Extra water will be available at the work site. Our work may be completed by early or mid-afternoon depending on attendance.
Pandemic Protocols: The project will be limited to 15 volunteers, divided into separate teams of 5 or fewer. Masks are mandatory, and the extensive areas to be planted will allow volunteers to work individually while maintaining social distancing. Except for people from the same household, carpooling will not be possible. If you wake up with any symptoms of Covid-19 or do not feel well for any reason, please don’t hesitate to stay home. For more information, go to https://nmvfo.org/covid-19-protocols/.
Directions: We will meet at the Sevilleta Visitor Center parking lot by 8:30 AM to sign in and take advantage of the indoor plumbing if desired. The center is located 60 miles south of Albuquerque’s “Big-I” on Interstate 25. (Google map) Take Exit 169 and make a sharp right turn at the first intersection. As shown by the map, the Visitor Center is about 1/4 of a mile up this road. From there we will drive in a caravan several miles to the work site on gravel roads that are normally suitable for sedans.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: No more than 15

Sign up using the button below no later than Thursday, February 11.
Sign Up

NMVFO Annual Meeting
2020-12-05 18:30 - 19:30
During our Annual Meeting for 2020 members and volunteers we’ll discuss project results, accomplishments, financials, and our plans for next year. The meeting will take place via Google Meet, and can be attended by a maximum of 100 people. If you have any questions please direct them to Kevin Wall (see above), or Jenny Blackmore, chairperson@nmvfo.org.
Hope you can join us!

New Canyon Small Group Project
2020-11-13 08:00 - 13:00
RESULTS: Four volunteers cut 10 fallen trees on the New Canyon Trail in the Manzanos and lopped NM Locust trees that were growing into the trail.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Milne-Gutierrez Small Group Project
2020-11-06 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: During this weekday project, ten NMVFO volunteers threw themselves at rock work, berm removal, rolling dip construction and corridor clearing along approximately 1 mile of Canyon Trail in Milne-Gutierrez Open Space
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Black Range Reroute III (Gila NF)
2020-10-23 08:00 - 2020-10-24 18:00
RESULTS: Four volunteers and two CDTC staff brushed five miles of CDT, cleared 38 trees, and added final touches to the new Black Range reroute.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Please sign up HERE.
From our partners at CDTC:
“Project Description: The Continental Divide Trail Coalition is partnering with New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors and the Black Range Ranger District (Forest Service) to complete a 1.5 mile reroute of the CDT in the Black Range of the Gila National Forest, west of Chloride, NM. A Youth Conservation Corps has already put time and energy into this reroute – but there is still progress to be made! The Forest Service has made this construction project a priority and would like to see it completed this fall. CDTC and NMVFO are proud to assist in the completion of this reroute and successfully remove it from a dirt Forest Service road. Enjoy the solitude and remoteness of the Black Range while swinging tools and creating a brand new portion of a National Scenic Trail.
Plan: Volunteers will arrive between 4pm and 6pm on October 22nd at the Monument Cabin to pitch camp and get situated. CDTC staff will be there to direct volunteers where to camp. Volunteers will hit the trail on October 23rd working north from the Caledonia trailhead on the CDT with the goal of completing the roughly 1.5 mile reroute and adding finishing touches as needed. Work will be wrapped up by 1:30PM on October 26th to ensure volunteers have ample time to pack up camp and drive safely home.
Meeting Time and Place: Thursday October 22nd between 4pm and 6pm at Monument Cabin. Click here for Google Maps directions.
Directions to Meeting Place: From I-25 take Exit 83 and head west towards Winston and Chloride via NM-52/County Rd CO06. Once in Chloride head west out of town on Wall St, which turns into County Rd CO53 for 12 miles until the cabin is on your left. Please note that the cabin is not marked but CDTC staff will be present to guide volunteers. CDTC highly recommends entering directions to the cabin into your phone via Google maps before departing. Google maps will work without cell phone service via your phone’s GPS.
COVID-19: Please take the time to review CDTC COVID-19 Guidelines & Procedures on the CDTC website, or access it here.
Day-of Project Contact: CDTC Field Instructor Isaac Miller, 406-224-3998, imiller@continentaldividetrail.org, or CDTC Field Instructor Beckett Wagner, 330-840-0369, bwagner@continentaldividetrail.org.
Vehicle Requirements: 4WD High Clearance.
Daily Hiking Distance: 2-3 miles a day.
Work Difficulty: Strenuous – Moderately high elevation with strenuous tasks such as digging new trail, removing rocks/boulders and brushing.
What’s Provided: Tools, project materials, personal protective equipment, work site supervision, and qualified First Aid personnel. Volunteers are responsible for providing their own food and water for the duration of the project.
Food and Water: Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, volunteers will not be able to share food or water with others outside their household. Volunteers are responsible for all their meals and must come prepared with breakfast, lunch, dinner, water, and snacks for the entire duration of the project. CDTC staff will have extra water for volunteers at the campsite.
Amenities: None. This is a primitive campsite with no bathrooms or running water, but CDTC staff will dig a latrine for volunteers to use.”
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: 7 Volunteers, 3 Leaders
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.

Black Range Reroute II (Gila NF)
2020-10-16 08:00 - 2020-10-19 15:00
RESULTS: Four NMVFO volunteers, together with two staff members from the Continental Divide Trail Coalition and a CDTC volunteer built approximately 2500 ft of new trail through steep rocky terrain along the CDT. The new work reroutes the CDT away from a road-walk in the Black Range ranger district of the Gila National Forest not far from the town of Chloride, NM. Previously a youth crew and another CDTC volunteer group had begun work on the 1.5 mile reroute. Our crew finished the reroute on Oct 17th, then spent the next day doing finish-up maintenance work, adding final touches to approximately 1.25 miles of the new trail before heading home.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Please sign up HERE.
From our partners at CDTC:
“Project Description: The Continental Divide Trail Coalition is partnering with New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors and the Black Range Ranger District (Forest Service) to complete a 1.5 mile reroute of the CDT in the Black Range of the Gila National Forest, west of Chloride, NM. A Youth Conservation Corps has already put time and energy into this reroute – but there is still progress to be made! The Forest Service has made this construction project a priority and would like to see it completed this fall. CDTC and NMVFO are proud to assist in the completion of this reroute and successfully remove it from a dirt Forest Service road. Enjoy the solitude and remoteness of the Black Range while swinging tools and creating a brand new portion of a National Scenic Trail.
Plan: Volunteers will arrive between 4pm and 6pm on October 15th at the Monument Cabin to pitch camp and get situated. CDTC staff will be there to direct volunteers where to camp. Volunteers will hit the trail on October 16th working north from the Caledonia trailhead on the CDT with the goal of completing the roughly 1.5 mile reroute and adding finishing touches as needed. Work will be wrapped up by 1:30PM on October 19th to ensure volunteers have ample time to pack up camp and drive safely home.
Meeting Time and Place: Thursday October 15th between 4pm and 6pm at Monument Cabin. Click here for Google Maps directions.
Directions to Meeting Place: From I-25 take Exit 83 and head west towards Winston and Chloride via NM-52/County Rd CO06. Once in Chloride head west out of town on Wall St, which turns into County Rd CO53 for 12 miles until the cabin is on your left. Please note that the cabin is not marked but CDTC staff will be present to guide volunteers. CDTC highly recommends entering directions to the cabin into your phone via Google maps before departing. Google maps will work without cell phone service via your phone’s GPS.
COVID-19: Please take the time to review CDTC COVID-19 Guidelines & Procedures on the CDTC website, or access it here.
Day-of Project Contact: CDTC Field Instructor Isaac Miller, 406-224-3998, imiller@continentaldividetrail.org, or CDTC Field Instructor Beckett Wagner, 330-840-0369, bwagner@continentaldividetrail.org.
Vehicle Requirements: 4WD High Clearance.
Daily Hiking Distance: 2-3 miles a day.
Work Difficulty: Strenuous – Moderately high elevation with strenuous tasks such as digging new trail, removing rocks/boulders and brushing.
What’s Provided: Tools, project materials, personal protective equipment, work site supervision, and qualified First Aid personnel. Volunteers are responsible for providing their own food and water for the duration of the project.
Food and Water: Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, volunteers will not be able to share food or water with others outside their household. Volunteers are responsible for all their meals and must come prepared with breakfast, lunch, dinner, water, and snacks for the entire duration of the project. CDTC staff will have extra water for volunteers at the campsite.
Amenities: None. This is a primitive campsite with no bathrooms or running water, but CDTC staff will dig a latrine for volunteers to use.”
Difficulty: 3 Pulaskis
Group Size: 7 Volunteers, 3 Leaders
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.

Red Canyon Spur Trails (Mountainair RD)
2020-10-10 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: The project team cleared about 1.3 miles of dead-fall on the Box Springs trail and cleared and made drainage improvements on about 1.5 miles of the Red Canyon and the Red Canyon Spur trails.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: The location for this project changed from the original schedule. We will be working the spur trails that originate in Red Canyon Campground in the Manzano Mountains. It will be a one-day project, but camping will be available at Red Canyon Campground without any charge if you want to arrive Friday night. There are no hook-ups at the campground but there are vault toilets. The work will include clearing tread and removing fallen trees. This area is outside of Wilderness so we could use chainsaws, but if any volunteers are interested in getting experience with manual crosscut saws, we will use those. Bring food and water for the day. We will begin working at 8:30 AM. Volunteers are required to bring face masks, work gloves, sturdy boots, eye protection (sunglasses), long pants and long sleeves. NMVFO will provide hard hats and tools. Reminder: Pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
We will be practicing social distancing on this project. Specific details will be provided prior to the start of the project.
Meet at Red Canyon hiker parking lot – details will be provided later.
Difficulty: 1 Pulaski
Group Size: Up to 13
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.

Sign Up

Sawyer Class
2020-10-04 09:00 - 17:00
RESULTS: Six volunteers earned their Crosscut Sawyer Certification during a one-day class taught by Jennifer Sublett, USFS, at the Panchuela Campground

Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Earn your USFS Crosscut Sawyer Certification at this all-day class. Sawyer certification is recommended for frequent NMVFO volunteers who desire to advance their trail maintenance skills. This class is for those who want to become active sawyers, who really intend to use these new skills on trail projects. You do not need to be certified in First Aid/CPR, and Blood Borne Pathogens to take the crosscut saw class, but will need them to become certified Forest Service sawyers. The class is taught by Jennifer Sublett, USFS.
What is Sawyer Certification? “The USFS requires a sawyer, the primary operator of a crosscut saw or chainsaw, to be trained, evaluated, and certified through a training program that meets the intent of FSM 2358.03 Policy. Sawyers must have a current National Sawyer Certification Card and meet any other specified qualifications to perform assigned saw work, including currency in first aid CPR training when engaged in sawing activities. The National Sawyer Certification Card is issued with a three-year expiration date, which can be subject to review any time prior to expiration.”
Learn about: binding, proper use of PPE, bucking, risk assessment, danger trees, underbucking, hung trees, use of wedges, escape routes, snags, widow makers, and so much more…
A volunteer does not need sawyer certification when using our smaller folding saws to cut downfalls, but the concepts learned in this class will also help users of smaller saws become safer and more effective. For larger downfalls, where a 2-person or 1-person crosscut saw is used, at least one operator must be sawyer certified.
Meet at: Panchuela Admin Site. Coordinates 35.829569N 105.663997W. Travel to Panchuela Campsite near the Pecos Wilderness, and pass beyond the gate near the camp host site to the Admin Site, following the NMVFO green signs. You do not need a high-clearance vehicle on Panchuela Road– it is paved all the way, though the roadway narrows to one lane with turn-offs.
Bring: Sack lunch, snacks. Wear long pants, long sleeve shirt, boots, gloves, and eye protection, as on a trail project. Bring your hard hat if you have one, otherwise NMVFO will provide one.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis (moderately strenuous)

Group Size: Up to 6

Please sign up below. Closing date for sign-ups is Wednesday September 30th, 2020.
<< THE CLASS IS NOW FULL. IF YOU SIGN UP, YOU WILL BE PUT ON A WAIT-LIST FOR THE NEXT CLASS, WHICH JENNIFER IS WILLING TO SCHEDULE SOON, DEPENDING ON INTEREST >>
Sign Up

Women's Trail Workshop (Sandia RD)
2020-10-03 08:30 - 16:00
RESULTS: On Saturday October 3rd, 6 participants attended an outdoor trail-building workshop at Pine Flat, at the south end of the Sandia Ranger District. After learning some basics about tools, trail design and construction, as well as tips on safety and body mechanics, volunteers worked on a reroute of the Gamble Spur trail. An enjoyable day, with perfect weather for building new trail!
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

October 3rd is our new, rescheduled date.
Description: Enjoy the camaraderie and support of other women as we learn or review some trail-building basics, then spend the day building new trail. We will go over tools, techniques, and best practices, with plenty of time for questions and feedback.
We’ll meet at the north end of the parking lot at the Sandia Ranger District Visitor Center (SRD) and carpool caravan a few miles south to the Pine Flat Picnic Area. From there we’ll hike a little over a quarter mile, carrying tools supplied by the Forest Service. Once at the work location we’ll settle in for an hour(ish) of “classroom” instruction and questions before beginning our hands-on practice, building trail to reroute some trenched-out sections on Gamble Spur. We’ll stop for a 30-minute lunch break in the middle of our work day.
Please bring your own work gloves and face mask, as well as lunch, snacks and plenty of water in a day pack. Please also bring a hat, sunblock, rain gear and sturdy boots. A notebook and pen could also prove useful! Forest Service rules require that while working we wear hard hats (supplied), eye protection (sunglasses okay), long pants, long sleeves, boots and work gloves, as well as face coverings when within 6 feet of each other. It could will(!) be chilly in the morning during “classroom” time, so bring an extra layer. After work we’ll begin hiking out at around 3:00, or possibly earlier depending on group energy.
We’ll be joined by one or two Forest Service personnel who will be available to help demonstrate and answer questions throughout the day.
Please register below by Thursday, Oct 1st. If you are bringing a friend, please fill out a form for her as well. Hope you can join us!
Difficulty: 2 Pulaskis
Cost: Free!
For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.
Sign Up

Water Canyon CG (Magdalena RD)
2020-09-26 08:00 - 2020-09-27 14:00
RESULTS: 15 volunteer trail workers and 2 volunteer cooks assembled in the Magdalena Mountains for a weekend of trail work, removing 107 deadfall from the following trails: South Canyon #11, Copper Canyon #10, Hop Canyon #25/#25A, and North Baldy #8.
Flickr API error: Invalid API Key (Key has invalid format)
PHOTO ALBUM LINK

Description: Please join us in the rustic and scenic Magdalena mountains for a weekend of hard work and good times! We have numerous geographically dispersed trails that need a smaller amount of deadfall removal and brushing work, therefore the plan will be to have several small teams tackle these trails independently. Currently we plan on working on some of the most popular trails including on Mesa Trail #13, South Baldy Trail #11, Hop Canyon Trail #25 to North Baldy Trail to #25a (a ~9.5 mile loop), and possibly Copper Canyon Trail #10. We’ll have the Water Canyon Campground group area reserved for tent camping, which includes a very large wooden gazebo with tables, fire pit, and toilets nearby. The group site will be available from Friday 25 September @4PM. Unfortunately, we won’t have a cook so you must provide your own meals, however we will have a stove, water and wash basins (and maybe some delicious homemade dessert Saturday night). Our project chefs will keep us well fed with breakfast Saturday, dinner Saturday, and breakfast Sunday morning. All tools and training will be provided….. more details to follow! As always, Covid-19 protocols will be in place during this project.
Difficulty: 2 Pulaski (moderately strenuous)
Group Size: 15

Sign up deadline is Tuesday, 9/22 at 5pm:

For more information: If this is your first NMVFO project, you can find more information about difficulty ratings and what to expect at http://nmvfo.org/volunteer/volunteer-faq, or email the project leader.
Sign-ups are now closed. Please email project leader to be added to the waiting list.

Sign Up

Valle de Oro Build Your Refuge Day (FWS) - Virtual
2020-09-26
Visit the Valle de Oro NWR website to virtually celebrate Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day and National Public Lands Day!
