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Galisteo Basin Fence Removal
Contact Leader(s): Bruce Wollens, b.wollens@nmvfo.org; Dan Potter, d.potter@nmvfo.org with any questions.
RESULTS: NMVFO volunteers returned to the Galisteo Basin to remove barbed wire fencing from the Dovetail Preserve near Lamy, NM. Fence segments totaling two thirds of a mile were taken down, coiled, and stacked. This was NMVFO’s 4th year of fence removal from Dovetail and the adjacent Galisteo Basin Preserve, resulting in all interior fencing from the old Thornton Ranch now being taken down for the benefit of wildlife and recreational users.
Description: After 4 years of removing fencing in the Galisteo Basin Preserves, join NMVFO for what may be our final fence-removal project with our partner, the Santa Fe Conservation Trust. Cattle fencing of this type presents a barrier and hazard for wildlife and people. We will meet at the Cottonwood Trailhead at 9:00 AM, then carpool to the worksites. Fence removal will continue to 3PM, or until these sections of fence are removed.
Work: Our focus is on two stretches of 4-strand barbed wire fencing. Our work will include cutting and coiling the barbed wire, as well as pulling and stacking all metal “T-Post” fenceposts. A hike of less than a mile is required to reach one of the fences.
Food/Water: Volunteers should bring their own snacks and water. After completion of the project, all volunteers are invited to share a late-afternoon meal at the historic Legal Tender restaurant in Lamy, NM.
Tools/Equipment/Clothing: NMVFO will supply wire-cutters, loppers for brush-clearing, and post-pullers. If any volunteers have their own fencing pliers (linesmen pliers also work well), please bring them with you. Volunteers should wear long sleeved shirts and long pants, eye protection/sunglasses, sturdy leather gloves and boots, and a day pack don’t forget your rain gear.
Difficulty: 
due to barbed wire hazard
Group Size: 20. If the project is full, please email the project leader to be put on a waitlist.
Please read our Volunteer Guidelines before signing up for this project. On the signup form please leave the "Number of Volunteers" at 1. If you would like to sign up additional volunteers please submit multiple signups.