Protecting our water, land, and way of life in northern New Mexico.
Climate change, intense wildfires, unnaturally dense forests, and drought threaten the lands that support us.
Our mission is to foster collaboration and community involvement in forest and watershed health projects through the implementation and administration of stewardship agreements.
Restoring our forests as a community is possible.
The Forest Council structure is modeled after a community-based forest stewardship program on the U.S. Forest Service Camino Real Ranger District, developed and run by then-employee Henry Lopez. The Questa Ranger District adopted Henry’s model of community forestry in their 2018 formation of the Cerro Negro Forest Council. Cerro Negro made a few changes to their council structure to ensure the work they did was representative of, and built on, the local culture and their endemic knowledge of the land. This approach demonstrated that it is possible and replicable to partner with federal land managers to accomplish thinning objectives and reduce wildfire risk while providing a maximum benefit to local residents.
Inspired by the work of Cerro Negro Forest Council, a collaborative group came together in the Camino Real area to host community meetings and talk to local leaders, and in the spring of 2019 the Rio de Las Trampas Forest Council was officially formed.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you are interested in attending community meetings, staying informed on the current work of the Council, or working hands-on by becoming a leñero to thin the forests surrounding your home, there is room for everyone to get involved.
Supporting our communities and achieving our conservation goals through realistic initiatives
Let’s meet up in real life to share in the beauty of the natural world.
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