Taos County Community Conservation Plan

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August 7

tpl.org

2 taos county community conservation plan final report Table of contents

Preface...... 4

1. Why a community conservation plan?...... 10

2. Taos County overview...... 12

3. Community engagement...... 20

4. Mapping conservation values...... 31

5. Funding for community conservation...... 42

6. Implementing the Community Conservation Plan...... 45

7. Conclusion...... 50

8. Participants...... 51

Online only appendices HTTPS://WEB.TPLGIS.ORG/TAOS_CCP/ appendix 1: References and Planning Context appendix 2: Conservation Finance Report appendix 3: Criteria Matrix appendix 4: Community Survey appendix 5: Community Meeting Summaries

taos county community conservation plan final report 3 Preface

Acknowledgments An enormous number of people contributed their time, energy, and passion to bringing the Taos County Community Conservation Plan to life. One hundred and sixty people participated in community meetings, and hundreds more gave their input through our survey, interviews, focus groups, and local events. Staff from Taos Land Trust, the Town of Taos, and the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program provided leadership and guidance as part of the core team for the plan. Planning staff from Taos County were active participants in community meetings. In addition, experts on local resources and recreation who were members of our technical advisory team helped shape the maps that are part of this Community Conser- vation Plan. (Please see Section 8 for a full list of participants.) This Community Conservation Plan was made possible through funding from the LOR Foundation, the Town of Taos, Taos County, Taos Land Trust, and The Trust for Public Land. nIna anthony

The view of El Salto and the Sangre de Cristo Range at sunset

4 taos county community conservation plan final report Project Staff AMY WILSON MORRIS, PhD, The Trust for Public Land, Associate Planning Director GREG HINER, The Trust for Public Land, Southwest Director of Land Protection FRED GIFFORD, The Trust for Public Land, Deputy Director of Conservation GIS LARA MILLER, The Trust for Public Land, GIS Project Manager KRISTINA ORTEZ DE JONES, Taos Land Trust Executive Director Project Partners TAOS LAND TRUST conserves open, productive, and natural lands for the benefit of the community and culture of northern New Mexico.

THE TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating parks and protecting land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. Since 1972, The Trust for Public Land has helped protect more than three million acres in all 50 states. The Trust for Public Land opened the New Mexico office in 1981 and completed its first project in 1982 in the Cibola National Forest. Our dedicated local staff has worked with local communities, federal, state, and county agencies to complete a total of 64 projects, protecting over 187,000 acres. In New Mexico, The Trust for Public Land focuses on three program areas: the Upper Rio Grande Watershed, Bernalillo County Agriculture and Open Space, and the Sky Island Grasslands.

For copies of this report or for more information, please contact:

Conservation Vision The Trust for Public Land 101 Montgomery Street, Suite 900 San Francisco, CA 94104 [email protected]

taos county community conservation plan final report 5 ‘Life’s essentials’ For Crestina, the land and water are living, THE DILEMMA OF CONSERVATION IN TAOS breathing things. “I have an intimacy with it,” COUNTY. Crestina Trujillo-Armstrong was just says Crestina, now in her 60s, perched on a nine years old when her father, Carlos Trujillo, stool in her kitchen with a cigarette dangling taught her to dig fence post holes that were as from her fingers. Her modest house sits in the deep as she was tall. middle of the property, and the family still does the daily chores of corralling livestock Carlos was a burly, self-reliant man, with and tending to the garden. hands like bear paws and expectations that his kids would pull their weight on the “I can talk to this land. Ask it for advice or family ranch. “He taught me to ride a horse. direction. It’s made me laugh and it’s made He taught me to brand cattle. And he taught me cry,” Crestina says. “It’s hard to explain. me to build a fence with good, sturdy posts You have to experience it.” and good, deep holes,” remembers Crestina. It’s an experience that’s getting harder and “Everything I learned, all of life’s essentials, harder to pass to the next generation in I learned from him.” Taos County. Among the lessons Carlos taught young Cres- Development pressure and rising land values tina was an intense and abiding love for the mean many old families are selling out or land that had sustained their family for gener- subdividing. Some are dividing these expan- ations. It’s a sentiment that’s widely shared sive family farms into 2-acre ranchettes. by other longtime residents of northern Others are making room for their kids and New Mexico. cousins who can’t afford to buy land of Nearly 200 years ago, her great-grandfather, their own. Antonio Maria Martinez, settled on 75 acres At the same time, subsistence farming—a in the San Cristobal Valley—a narrow strip of mainstay of the local land-based culture—is pasture land bounded to the north and south waning. County appraisers are finding that by piñon and juniper forest, and flanked by more than half the properties once used for the Sangre de Cristo range on the east and the agriculture sit fallow or have been developed, Rio Grande Gorge to the west. The family’s accelerating the pace at which prime green homestead extends across the width of the belts are being developed. idyllic valley and is bisected by San Cristobal Creek—a critical source of water for irrigation For decades, Crestina has watched as old and livestock. family farms surrounding hers were cut up

6 taos county community conservation plan final report j.r. logan

Crestina Trujillo-Armstrong on her ranch just north of Taos

and sold off. “It just bugs the hell out of me,” lots and made enough money to retire she says. “It feels like a betrayal.” comfortably.

Crestina’s entire property, which now includes But Crestina was determined to preserve the about 50 acres of the original homestead, is land and the family’s way of life. The idea of easily worth more than $1 million. She and selling off even a piece of the family home- her brother could have sold a few picturesque stead never crossed her mind.

taos county community conservation plan final report 7 So when she was introduced to the concept of incredibly frustrating to hear people with a conservation easement, she was intrigued. In whom she shares a love of land and water say 1999, she and her brother, Jose León Trujillo, they couldn’t preserve their property without put a conservation easement on 38 acres of losing money or a place for their kids to come the family homestead, including all of the home to. irrigated land. The easement means the land can never be developed and can be passed to This document—the Taos Community Conser- her kids intact. Then they can also enjoy that vation Plan—is about choices. It’s intended visceral connection to the dirt and the water. to give property owners and local leaders options when it comes to preserving land- But Crestina is the exception. Words like scapes and the culture to which they are so “conservation easement” are scary in a place closely linked. It clearly defines the values like Taos, where people are wary of rules and that Crestina and so many others have in regulations. There’s a real reluctance to put common. It shows areas of the county where any restrictions on a property, especially when those values are most prominent and offers it’s a family’s only asset. suggestions on how to do conservation in a way that makes sense in a unique place that After the easement was dedicated, Crestina faces unique challenges. went on to serve on the Taos Land Trust board for 13 years. In that time, she says she As Crestina’s father used to say: “They keep making never once convinced another old family to new cars, but they’re not making new land.” put an easement on their property. It was

8 taos county community conservation plan final report Vision Guiding Principles Our vision is a Taos County where 1. The Community Conservation Plan cultural traditions are embraced should be inclusive and should and quality of life is excellent demonstrate respect for our tri- because everyone is connected to cultural traditions. the land and committed to sustain- 2. The planning process should foster able stewardship of our unique participation from locals of all natural and cultural landscapes by ages, from the Pueblo and Hispano and for our community. communities, and from diverse interest groups. nina anthony 3. We need to identify ways to conserve natural and open space resources while also protecting cultural values and local traditions.

4. Residents value traditional working lands and particularly want to protect our irrigated agricultural lands and acequias.

5. Conserved open space and access to recreation are important for connecting residents to the outdoors and for attracting tourists and jobs to Taos County.

6. We support voluntary conservation efforts.

7. We need to build support for Gold Hill Trail, Taos Ski Valley sustainable stewardship of our unique natural and cultural landscapes by and for our community.

taos county community conservation plan final report 9 1. Why a community conservation plan?

“We will continue to take care of greatest number of community goals can be our lands, our water, our people, “stacked” and met simultaneously through because without that we aren’t conservation. anything.” In addition to identifying and mapping these — PATRICK KOPEPASSAH, TAOS PUEBLO goals, the Community Conservation Plan FIRE PROGRAM MANAGER highlights some key themes that emerged

THE TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVA- from community input. Importantly, despite TION PLAN is about preserving the connection major divisions in the community, there is between local residents and land and water strong consensus about the need to protect that sustain us. It brings together local prior- water and acequias, the need to preserve local ities, local stories, and local expertise with agricultural traditions, and the need for more the national leadership of The Trust for Public close-to-home access to nature. Land’s Planning and Geographic Information Nearly one-quarter of Taos residents live below System (GIS) team who led community engage- the poverty line, and local rates of obesity and ment and used public input to do quality GIS diabetes are very high. Through their engage- mapping and modeling. Plan partners collab- ment in the Community Conservation Plan, orated with community members to develop Taoseños expressed a strong desire for more a shared vision, shared goals, and practical close-to-home access to nature, which echoes action steps for implementation. Work on the recent research findings that show enormous Community Conservation Plan began in the mental, social, and physical benefits from summer of 2015 and concluded in the spending time outdoors. This Community spring of 2017. Conservation Plan provides a road map to Based on community outreach results, the top help Taos find options for protecting its four conservation priorities for Taos County unique natural beauty and cultural tradi- are (1) Protect water quality and quantity; (2) tions while cultivating tools to face its most Protect cultural resources, including tradi- pressing challenges. tional agriculture; (3) Protect wildlife habitat; Please note that the Community Conservation Plan is and (4) Provide access to recreational oppor- focused on opportunities for voluntary conservation tunities. This document is meant to serve as of private land. These strategies may include volun- a guide for voluntary protection of proper- tary purchase of private land that could be converted ties that embody these values. The overall to a public park; voluntary creation of conservation conservation goal map shown in Section 4 of easements on private land that protect working lands this report identifies 49,674 acres where the or sensitive areas without providing public access;

10 taos county community conservation plan final report voluntary creation of conservation easements on habitat, providing recreational access, or private land that allow some public access; or volun- accomplishing some combination of all three. tary creation of trail easements through private land. Conservation easements can help landowners Please see below more information about voluntary continue to use working land for farming, land conservation. ranching, or forestry and are tailored to the unique circumstances of each property and Please also note that some of the strategies discussed landowner. Through conservation easements, in Section 6 (Implementing the Community Conserva- landowners either sell or donate some of the tion Plan) may be relevant to public lands and tribal rights associated with a property (for example, lands, but those areas have their own management the right to subdivide a property), but still plans and conservation priorities. retain ownership of the land and the ability What Is Voluntary Land to sell it or pass it on to heirs subject to the Conservation? restrictions of the easement. This Community Conservation Plan is As mentioned above, when entering into a intended to guide voluntary land conservation conservation easement agreement a land- with landowners willing and interested in owner can be paid for the rights being sold (if participating. The plan identifies opportuni- funding is available), donate them, or arrange ties to work with landowners to find win-win a combination of the two. In the case of a solutions that benefit landowners, protect donation, there can be both federal and state land for future generations, and help to meet tax benefits. Conservation easements can help community goals. This may mean working ensure that valuable farmland or important with willing landowners to purchase land wildlife habitat is never developed. Because outright (in “full fee”) or acquiring conserva- the restrictions that are part of conservation tion easements for permanent protection. If easement agreements are permanent, land- land is purchased outright for conservation, it owners need to do their own due diligence to is often held and managed by a land conserva- ensure that long-term benefits of protecting tion nonprofit organization or by a public land their land outweigh the costs of permanently management agency. In these cases owners restricting development. can allow public access, giving the community more places to walk and play, and provide “We are the land, and the land is access to other public lands. us. If we do not preserve it, we risk

Conservation easements have many different losing our identity as a people.” purposes, including preserving working farms —DARIEN FERNANDEZ, TAOS TOWN COUNCILMEMBER and ranches or forests, protecting wildlife

taos county community conservation plan final report 11 2. Taos County overview

“Taoseños are deeply connected settlers who came to Taos before it was to the land. Community elders annexed by the United States. Land is central have wonderful stories of to the area’s culture and sense of community. parents and grandparents who Despite its rich natural and cultural resources, grew and foraged nearly every- the county faces enormous challenges. There thing they needed from the is a long history of conflicts over land manage- mountains, forests, rivers and ment and control of resources. Longtime residents and newcomers, Pueblo, Hispano, acequia-irrigated bottomlands and Anglo community members, often do not of the valley. And centuries-old see eye to eye on the county’s future. Tourists religious ceremonies, from the and second-home owners are increasingly Deer Dance of the Pueblos to drawn to Taos, but the economic benefits the procession of San Isidro, the they bring are not reaching all residents, and patron saint of farmers, continue tensions have been exacerbated by increasing to show the relationship land and home prices. Amid a boom in recreation tourism, Taos has very high poverty, and between people and nature.” local obesity rates are much higher and rates —GILLIAN JOYCE , ADAPTED FROM FERNANDO PARK LTA REPORT of vigorous exercise are much lower than the national average. Meanwhile, the area’s legacy Hispano population is shrinking and the popu- IT’S NO SECRET THAT TAOS COUNTY IS SPECTAC- lation is aging as many young people leave the ULARLY BEAUTIFUL AND CULTURALLY RICH. The area for opportunity elsewhere. county is home to the Sangre de Cristo Moun- tains, the southernmost range of the Rocky Still, despite conflicts and challenges, local Mountains, the Picuris Pueblo, and the Taos communities agree that in the face of Pueblo. Taos County’s stunning landscapes increasing development, important places range from mountain peaks and high desert must be protected. There is also widespread mesas to rich farmlands that have been irri- consensus that residents need more protected gated for hundreds of years using traditional areas that will allow them to come together acequia systems—beginning with Hispano and to connect with nature.

12 taos county community conservation plan final report CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

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Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway LLANO Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area UT CO County boundary OK State boundary 76 Ownership UV BLM AZ NM Wilderness (USFS) TX Other Forest Service MORA State COUNTY Tribal UV518 Conservation easement MEX SANTA FE 0 5 10 ICO COUNTY Miles ± Study area TA O S C O U N T Y C O M M U N I T Y C O N S E R V AT I O N P L A N

Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County April 20, 2017. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only. www.tpl.org

figure 1 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

taos county community conservation plan final report 13 Population and Housing Cross Hospital indicate that many factors Taos County has an estimated population of negatively affect the health of local commu- 33,084 with an annual population growth nities, including lack of health insurance and rate of 0.4 percent (32,937 in 2010 to 33,084 affordable health care options, lack of access in 2014). New Mexico’s growth rate is 1.3 to mental health and substance abuse treat- percent per year. The 2012 median age for the ment resources, and economic factors that county is 44.4 years, which is older than the contribute to inadequate diets. New Mexico median age (35.5 years) and the Economy national median age (36.8 years). Over half Nearly a quarter of Taos County residents live of the population in the county (56 percent) below the poverty line. The median household identifies as Hispanic/Latino, and 6 percent are income for Taos County is $32,637, which is Native American. Just over 5,700 people live much lower than both the state and national in the town of Taos, and nearly 2,000 people median household incomes ($41,587 and live on Taos Pueblo lands. According to recent $49,559, respectively). Local Native American estimates, there are 20,296 housing units in households have a median income 21 percent Taos County—very few of these are the most below that of Anglo households and 6 percent affordable type of apartment-style housing. below that of Hispanic households. Hispanic Over 20 percent of the housing countywide is households have a median income 15 percent for seasonal or occasional use, and at any one below that of Anglo households. time over one-third of housing is vacant. Local employment by industry has changed Community Health in the past few decades, with a shrinking Local rates of morbid obesity and chronic number of jobs in construction and manufac- diabetes in Taos County are very high. In turing and an increasing number of jobs in Taos, 33.7 percent of the population is obese, educational services, health care and social which is 11 percent higher than the national services, professional and technical services, average. The percentage of Taoseños who get and real estate. From 1970 to 2011, average regular vigorous exercise (50.6 percent) is 11 earnings per job shrank from $33,858 to percent lower than the national average. Data $32,142, a 5 percent decrease. Since 1990, the from the Indian Health Service clinic indicate annual unemployment rate has varied from that 47 percent of Pueblo youth are over- a high of 18.8 percent in 1992 to an all-time weight or obese and that 21 percent of adults low of 4.5 percent in 2007. In January 2017, have diabetes. These health problems are the unemployment rate for Taos County overlaid by persistent poverty among many was 8.5 percent. Unemployment rates have local families and children, often making been below 10 percent since 2000. Recently, chronic disease more difficult to prevent and the economy has become somewhat more treat. Results from a 2013 analysis by Holy

14 taos county community conservation plan final report diversified, which means it is less impacted by were given as both private grants (made to seasonal employment and national economic individuals) and communal grants (made downturns. for establishing settlements). The land grant system was used until 1848 when New Mexico Taos County is one of the most tourism- became part of the United States. However, dependent counties in New Mexico, as over 30 disputes stemming from the land grant system percent of its jobs come directly or indirectly still exist today. The movement to revive from tourism. Visitor spending in Taos County old land grants affects nearly 35 percent of grew 3.2 percent in 2014; that year, tourists the county’s total property tax base, and the spent money on lodging ($49.4 million), retail Hispano community is divided on how to ($32.1 million), recreation ($21.5 million), address land grants. transport ($20.6 million), and second homes ($74.9 million). Land Use and Ownership Taos County covers over 1.4 million acres. TABLE 1. LANDOWNERSHIP IN TAOS COUNTY Roughly half of the land in Taos County is federally owned, and only 31 percent is in private ownership (see Table 1). Pueblo lands Agency Acres Percent encompass 8 percent of the county and the Federal Land 769,168 55% state owns 6 percent. Federal public lands in Bureau of Land 250,102 18% Taos County include Carson National Forest Management and Rio Grande del Norte National Monument U.S. Forest Service 519,066 37% (established in 2013). The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management are the State Land 78,512 6% primary federal landholders in the county. State Land Office 61,584 4%

Historically, land use in Taos County has State Dept. of 16,928 1% Game and Fish revolved around farming, ranching, mining, Pueblo 116,909 8% hunting, and timber harvesting. Land grants were made during the Spanish and Mexican Private Land 440,698 31% periods of New Mexico’s history (1598–1821 Total 1,405,287 100% and 1821–1846, respectively). Land grants

taos county community conservation plan final report 15 Water fastest-growing component of water use in “Without water, the land Taos County is an estimated 7,400 domestic becomes useless.” water well users. —MARK GALLEGOS, TAOS COUNTY COMMISSIONER acequias Acequias are hand-dug, gravity-fed irrigation Taos County crosses six watersheds, including canals created to divert stream water and the Canadian Headwaters Watershed, sustain local farms. Northern New Mexico’s Cimarron Watershed, Mora Watershed, Alam- acequias represent some of the oldest intact osa-Trinchera Watershed, Upper Rio Grande water-management infrastructure in America. Watershed, and Rio Chama Watershed. The Acequias divert, divide, and deliver water to 2016 Regional Water Plan indicates that Taos crops and livestock, form borders and path- County will face up to an 80,000-acre-foot ways, connect communities of irrigators, annual shortage of water by 2030, depending sustain biodiversity along riparian corridors, on drought conditions. This would most and replenish groundwater wherever heavily impact irrigated agriculture and they reach. commercial water uses.

Taos County lies within the Rio Grande Basin. rich reid The Rio Grande originates in Colorado and flows through Taos County north to south. Most of the Rio Grande is fed by perennial trib- utaries created from precipitation from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in eastern Taos County. The major water users in the county include 147 acequia associations, two pueblos, 32 mutual domestic water associations, four incorporated municipalities, and two water and sanitation districts.

Nearly 90 percent of Taos County water with- drawals come from surface water sources. However, most local drinking water comes from groundwater. As a result, acequias and wetlands are especially important for groundwater recharge. According to the 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update, the The Rio Grande River

16 taos county community conservation plan final report Pueblo and acequia water rights and water along the Red River in Questa. Wells near Tres uses in Taos County are guaranteed by treaty. Piedras exceeded Environmental Protection In almost all stream systems, water claims Agency guidelines for elevated levels of zinc, exceed the natural supply of stream flow. New uranium, and lead. Additional groundwater Mexico has a network of approximately 1,000 quality concerns include elevated levels of acequias that bring irrigation water to 12,000 fluoride, arsenic, and uranium. farms on 160,000 acres of land. The acequias were first established when the Spanish Wildlife conquistadores required settlers to locate Taos County is home to a variety of animals, near waterways. Traditionally, the mayor- including bears, elk, deer, sheep, marmots, domo, or ditch boss, oversaw the welfare of and pika. The area also hosts a vast array of an acequia system. plant species, including piñon, juniper, fir, aspen, spruce, ponderosa pine, and Engel- The Taos Valley Acequia Association, orga- mann Spruce. Taos County is known for bird nized in 1987, comprises the 55 community sightings, including bald eagles, golden eagles, acequias. The Acequia Association works to great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, humming- protect the rights of the Taos Valley irriga- birds, and red-winged blackbirds. tors to access water from the Rio Grande del Rancho, Rio Chiquito, Rio Fernando, Rio Federally threatened species in this area Pueblo, Rio Lucero, Arroyo Seco, and Rio include yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus ameri- Hondo stream systems. canus), Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida), and Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis). water quality Endangered species in Taos County include In recent years, concerns have increased the southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax( about both surface water quality and ground- traillii extimus) and the black-footed ferret water quality in Taos County. Surface water (Mustela nigripes). State-listed threatened and quality has been affected by nonpoint sources, endangered species also include Pacific marten including runoff from agriculture, recreation, (Martes caurina), meadow jumping mouse road and highway maintenance, and resource (Zapus hudsonius luteus), white-tailed ptar- extraction. Common contaminants detected migan (Lagopus leucura), common black hawk in the Rio Grande Basin include aluminum (Buteogallus anthracinus), bald eagle (Haliaeetus and selenium. Despite water quality being leucocephalus), peregrine falcon (Falco pere- rated “excellent” in some areas, high levels of grinus), Arctic peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus sulfate, iron, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, tundrius), yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus ameri- nickel, and other elements have been found canus occidentalis), boreal owl (Aegolius funereus), in upper Weimer and Canon Heights and Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida),

taos county community conservation plan final report 17 white-eared hummingbird (Hylocharis leucotis), from 637 to 983. Taos County is still one of the gray vireo (Vireo vicinior), Baird’s Sparrow top producers in the state for bison, honey (Ammodramus bairdii), and the Sangre De Cristo and honeybee colonies, llamas, head cabbage, peaclam (Pisidium sanguinichristi). cherries, pears, garlic, and herbs. The break- down of agricultural land use is pastureland Recreation (52.5 percent), woodland (37.7 percent), crop- The landscapes of Taos County provide enor- land (7.8 percent), and other uses (1.9 percent). mous recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, river rafting, climbing, In 2014, the state required counties to reas- hunting and fishing, and skiing. Access to sess the properties that were being allowed spectacular recreation is a major draw for to pay reduced property taxes based on their both tourists and new residents. Statewide agricultural status. Since 2014, Taos County recreation contributes $3.8 billion annually has revoked 800 agricultural classifications, to New Mexico’s economy, including $2.75 resulting in huge increases in tax liability billion in retail sales and $184 million in tax for many property owners whose agricul- revenue, supporting 47,000 jobs. Taos Ski tural production had declined for a variety of Valley alone generates between $13 million reasons. In addition, the New Mexico Water and $14 million annually—an amount that is Code states that if a water right is not exer- expected to increase to $22 million annually cised for four consecutive years, it may be by 2025. Recreation opportunities are found taken away. This code applies to property throughout the region’s public lands. Within owners with acequia water rights. the town of Taos, the Parks Division oversees This crackdown on agricultural land classi- and maintains Kit Carson Park and Fred Baca fication coincides with a severe drought in Park but does not provide any formal recre- the region and increases operational costs for ation programming. small-scale ranching. Revoking this tax break Agricultural Lands has added approximately $51 million to the Farmland is disappearing quickly in Taos county’s tax base. However, because many of County. According to the most recent agricul- the reclassified properties are multigenera- tural census, acres of farmland in Taos County tional family farms covering relatively small decreased by a dramatic 31 percent between acreage and owned by aging landowners who 2007 and 2012. During this period the average can no longer farm, increased tax burdens size of farms decreased from 717 acres to 319 on reclassified land may force families to sell acres, and the number of farms increased properties that they have owned for many years.

18 taos county community conservation plan final report CASE STUDY 1

conservation easements, will stay in place no Red Clay Trail: Taos Land matter who may own the property in the future. Trust Assists with Perma- The Traditional Access Easement covers Taos Land Trust’s 22-acre “Rio Hondo Park” along the Rim nent Cultural Easement Road in Valdez. For centuries, members of the Taos Pueblo made Over the past several years, the Taos Land Trust has a pilgrimage by foot and on horseback along worked with the Taos Pueblo Warchief’s office to the Red Clay Trail to the Questa area to collect identify and approach private landowners along materials for ceremonial activities. In recent the Red Clay Trail to encourage them to enter decades, fences, gates, and seeking permission easement agreements similar to the one the Land from private landowners have made the journey Trust signed in 2009. This effort began in 2010, but more onerous. in 2016 the Land Trust and others traveled the Red Each year, Taos Pueblo officials notify landowners Clay Trail to map it and determine landownership. along the Red Clay Trail of the August pilgrimage Taos Land Trust staff joined staff from Taos Pueblo and ask to pass through their lands. Though and the U.S. Forest Service to travel the Red Clay current landowners with land along the trail have Trail and map its path through public and happily granted their permission for this annual private lands. traditional access, future owners—especially those The daylong trip took the group along Pueblo who are unaware of the cultural significance of the lands, public roads, and Forest Service property, land—could deny access. To avoid future conflicts, through utility easements, and across a handful members of the Pueblo hope to permanently of privately held lands. Though the trail corridor secure their access through a permanent access may change slightly depending on annual easement agreement. conditions, this trip allowed the Pueblo to gather In 2009, Taos Land Trust became the first private detailed information that will help the Warchief’s landowner to grant Taos Pueblo a permanent office approach landowners and secure “Cultural and Traditional Access Easement permanent access. Agreement.” This easement, like the Land Trust’s

taos county community conservation plan final report 19 3. Community engagement

DEVELOPMENT OF THIS COMMUNITY CONSER- encouraging local food production. VATION PLAN involved extensive community • Residents do not always share a strong engagement throughout the nearly two-year sense of stewardship of local open spaces. process. The speak-outs, community meetings, For example, many interviewees and community survey, focus groups, interviews, meeting participants talked about frequent and youth-led interviews undertaken as part illegal dumping in open space areas. of the planning process are described below. • Close collaboration among local governments, resource agencies, conservation and Key Themes community groups, and active and engaged Some key themes arose during community residents is needed. engagement for the Community Conservation • Local governments and local nonprofits Plan, including the following: have very limited resources. Reliable • Residents expressed a nearly universal funding and local capacity-building will desire to protect water supplies and be especially critical for implementing the traditional acequia systems. Community Conservation Plan—including • Residents reached a strong consensus for land acquisition and stewardship. around the need for more close-to-home access to nature and safe options for Speak-Outs walking and biking—especially for children Nearly 300 people participated in speak-out and families. poster activities in September through • The priorities and the needs of longtime November of 2015. The poster activities residents and newcomers and visitors are captured community priorities for both often different and potentially difficult conservation and trails. A total of 736 people to reconcile. This is at least partially a were engaged through speak-outs and other result of cultural divisions and entrenched outreach events at Taos Farmers Market economic inequity. (September and October 2015); San Geronimo ∙ Longtime community members want Day (September 2015); and at Cid’s Market, increased access to the outdoors, but Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Taos Ancianos they voiced a great deal of concern Lunch, Elevation Coffee, and Super Save about the impacts of increasing recre- Market (November 2015). People who were ational use—particularly by tourists. unable to participate in poster activities were ∙ Longtime residents are also concerned given postcards with information about the about the impacts of tourism and online community survey. newcomers on local culture. • Many residents are passionate about preserving agricultural traditions and

20 taos county community conservation plan final report Community Conservation Plan at a Glance

Patrice Gallagher Number of people engaged Approximate number of people who participated in the in speak-outs speak-out poster activities 736 300

Engagement Timeline

Speak-outs July 2015– Sep.2015– Jan. 2016– Community at local Community Community Aug.2016 Community meeting #1 Feb. 2017 events Jan. 2016 meeting #2 Feb. 2017 meeting #3 meeting #5

Interviews Online Focus groups Community Sep. 2015– community meeting #4 July 2015 Nov.2015 Apr.2016 Nov.2016 Dec. 2015 survey

Number of community members who attended at least one Number of people out of the five community meetings who participated in the 160 community survey 655

taos county community conservation plan final report 21 Community Meetings Taos News. The Taos Land Trust and others in Five community meetings were held for the the core team also reached out to the Questa Taos County Community Conservation Plan. Economic Development Fund, Taos Entrepre- Three of these were joint meetings that also neurial Network, Taos Chamber of Commerce, incorporated stakeholder engagement for the University of New Mexico faculty, Taos Charter Enchanted Circle Trails Plan. One hundred School, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Taos and sixty community members, representing Health Council, Agricultural Resolution a wide range of organizations and interests, Committee (now Alianza Agri-Cultura), and attended at least one of the meetings for the community leaders in Angel Fire. Postcards Community Conservation Plan. The kickoff advertising the community survey were meeting for the plan was held at the KTAOS distributed at the speak-out events mentioned Solar Center in July 2015. Subsequent meet- above. Survey information was also posted on ings were held at the Talpa Community community bulletin boards in Questa. Paper Center (November 2015), the Juan I. Gonzales surveys (and postage paid return envelopes) Agricultural Center (April 2016), the Town of were distributed at Ancianos and at Super Taos Council Chambers (August 2016), and Save Market (in addition to postcards with the the Mabel Dodge Luhan House (November survey website information). The survey URL 2016). Participants in the community meetings was also included in utility bills for the Kit helped identify the goals, vision, and guiding Carson Electric Co-op. principles for the Community Conservation who participated in the survey? Plan. Meeting attendees also reviewed the Six hundred and fifty-five people partici- maps created for the plan and advised on pated in the community survey. Most survey the relative weighting for the goals within responses were submitted online, but six the overall map (see Section 4: Mapping people submitted paper surveys. Please note: Conservation Values). See online Appendix 5 Over 200 survey respondents skipped demo- for the full summaries from each of the five graphic questions, so the percentages below community meetings. refer only to the participants who answered Community Survey those questions. The joint community survey for the Taos • Over 70 percent of respondents have lived Community Conservation Plan and the in the Taos area for more than six years, Enchanted Circle Trails Plan was available and over 57 percent have been in the area online from September 2015 through January for more than ten years. 2016. Outreach for the survey included posting • 55 percent of responses were from men. survey information on the Town of Taos and • Over 40 percent of participants were 61 Taos Land Trust websites and in a weeklong years old or older. Less than 10 percent of wallpaper ad in the online version of the

22 taos county community conservation plan final report responses were from people 35 years old or and run on dirt paths, walk their dogs, view younger. wildlife, and cross-country ski/snowshoe. • Over 40 percent of participants have house- Hispano/Hispanic respondents were more hold incomes of over $75,000 per year, and likely to ride horses, snowmobile, canoe/ 18 percent had household incomes under kayak/raft, and hunt, fish, and forage. $25,000 annually. • Only 14 percent of respondents identified Conservation Priorities themselves as Hispano/Hispanic. Survey participants were asked to choose their top three priorities among seven possible hispano/hispanic versus conservation goals: water quality/quantity, anglo responses access to recreational opportunities, views, Taos County is 56 percent Hispano/Hispanic, acequias, agricultural land/ranch land, cultural but only 14 percent of survey participants and historic resources, and wildlife. The selec- who provided demographic data identified tion of these suggested goals was based on as Hispano/Hispanic. As a result, key survey input at the first community meeting in July responses have been weighted so that they 2015. Once Hispano responses were weighted accurately reflect local demographics. to reflect local demographics, the overall priorities were: There were several statistically significant differences between Hispano/Hispanic and 1. Protect water quality and quantity; Anglo responses. More Hispano/Hispanic 2. Protect cultural resources, including participants (88 percent) ranked water as their traditional agriculture; most important regional value than did Anglo 3. Protect wildlife habitat; and participants (75 percent). In addition, Hispano/ 4. Provide access to recreational Hispanic respondents were more concerned opportunities. about agriculture and acequias and slightly less concerned about recreational access.

Recreational activities used by Anglo and Hispano/Hispanic participants also differed. Anglo participants were more likely to hike

taos county community conservation plan final report 23 Table 2 shows results with Hispano/Hispanic weighting already calculated. Totals are show for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choices separately and totaled together. For “choice ranked total” first choice responses were weighted most heavily (given full weight); second choice responses were weighted 0.8; and third choice responses were weighted 0.6.

TABLE 2. PLEASE RANK THE TOP THREE REGIONAL VALUES THAT YOU THINK ARE MOST IMPORTANT FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE GENERATIONS IN TAOS

Regional Value 1st 2nd 3rd Unranked Choice Total Ranked Total

Water Quality and Quantity 1044 160 47 1251 1200

Cultural and Historic Resources, 174 600 614 1388 1022 Including Traditional Agriculture

Wildlife 57 365 268 690 510

Access to Recreational 84 190 269 543 397 Opportunities

Cultural and Historic Resources 44 211 320 575 1022

Acequias 57 269 110 436 338

Agricultural Land/Ranchland 73 120 184 377 279

Other 24 7 50 81 60

TOTAL 1,604 1,989 1,999 5,592 5,011

Two important things to note:

1. Protecting water is a very dominant priority based on this community input. 2. Because of broader community input about their importance, protection of agricultural land and acequias was folded into the “Protect cultural resources, including traditional agriculture” goal. As a result this goal became the second-highest priority below protecting water.

24 taos county community conservation plan final report most iconic and culturally significant landscapes Participants were asked to identify the area’s most iconic and culturally significant landscapes. The most frequently mentioned areas were the Rio Grande, the Gorge, and the Pueblo.

what places and resources are most threatened? When asked about the area’s most threatened places and resources, participants were most concerned about impacts from development and impacts on water. rich reid

River rafting on the Rio Grande near Pilar, New Mexico

taos county community conservation plan final report 25 odonnell

Girl playing outside

balancing promoting tourism and is certainly a lifeblood of the region, but we protecting local culture must [also] retain our uniqueness, landscapes, Most residents want to encourage some community, and culture.” Another partici- economic development, including increased pant argued that “land conservation [should] tourism, but there is some tension between protect cultural heritage by acknowledging those interested in promoting economic devel- the past, but also recognizing the needs of opment and those who want to protect local people on the land in the future.” Several culture and pristine natural areas. respondents argued that Anglo residents are more interested in increasing tourism than are One survey participant noted that “tourism local Pueblo and Hispano communities.

26 taos county community conservation plan final report support for expanding the trail system gather and feel safe—particularly parks that Residents expressed very strong support for provide opportunities to build skills or grow expanding the trail system throughout the food. Enchanted Circle region. Eighty-six percent of survey participants said they support or Interviews strongly support expanding the trail and Twenty-one community leaders participated in pathway system in the Enchanted Circle. interviews for the Community Conservation Less than 5 percent did not support expan- Plan. Input from interviews helped inform sion. Many residents use trails and pathways other community engagement efforts and daily or almost daily. The highest priority for provided important context throughout the trail investments by a large margin (for both planning process. Some highlights from inter- participants overall and Hispano/Hispanic views are summarized below. respondents in particular) was to create new • positive and negative trends. Inter- trails and pathways for safety. The second viewees mentioned a wide variety of priority was connected road cycling paths, positive changes in the area, including and the third priority overall was maintaining/ the recognition and protection of the Rio improving existing backcountry trails. Grande del Norte and renewed focus on the Focus Groups acequia system. Interviewees also expressed Taos Land Trust led several focus groups concern about the economy, the rate of during the planning process. Focus groups agricultural land loss, and local rates of included members of a local health council, crime and substance abuse. local youth, and parents from a child-care • quality of life. Interviewees focused on center at the University of New Mexico (UNM). the importance of the river, mountains, The focus groups agreed on the importance open space, and access to public lands to of providing safer paths and trails for connec- their quality of life. They also expressed tivity, commuting, and access to the outdoors appreciation for Taos’s small-town char- and better access to healthy, locally grown acter and rich cultural history. Several food. Participants drew attention to the impor- interviewees expressed the belief that tance of protecting Taos’s culture and history the generations of families calling this and expressed support for limiting develop- place home are what make Taos special. ment. Participants in the youth focus group Interviewees felt that local quality of life emphasized the need for fostering a cultural was threatened by development pressure, relationship with the land and providing more traffic, lack of education, substance abuse, outdoor spaces where the community can and lack of respect for local culture.

taos county community conservation plan final report 27 • places with special meaning. Inter- and priorities for protecting natural resources viewees mentioned a wide range of places for future generations. with special meaning, including Kit Carson Park, Fred Baca Park, Williams Lake, Garcia Interviewees indicated that they spend Park, local waterfalls, Blue Lake, the Wild between two and 30 hours outside with and Scenic River Frontage, the Valdez trail their families every week. Most interviewees system, Columbine-Hondo, Carson National enjoy spending time outdoors with their Forest, the Rio Grande del Norte National families and pets, and many feel especially Monument, Taos Pueblo, Stagecoach Hot connected to Kit Carson and Fred Baca Springs, Black Rock Hot Springs, Taos Ski parks—particularly the nature trail at Fred Valley, Couse Pasture, Mitchell Pasture, El Baca. Interviewees recounted family and Prado Pasture, the Ranchos church, and cultural traditions, including harvesting Llano Quemado. piñons, cleaning acequias, and chopping firewood. A few of the stories from the Youth Interviews youth interviews are included here: In November 2015 and December 2016, local • “The first time my sister took me hiking at Upward Bound students conducted 14 inter- Williams Lake with the dog, it was difficult, views with each other and with other local but it was honestly one of the best feelings young people ages 14 to 18. Upward Bound in the world.” works with low-income high school students • “When my family from Mexico comes over and is designed to strengthen the math and we like to take them to the hot springs and science skills of participating students to the river and make some food. I also like to encourage them to pursue college degrees spend time with them and play La Loteria in STEM (science, technology, engineering, while lying in the blankets.” or math) subjects. The Taos Upward Bound • “One special memory is from the time I program at the University of New Mexico went hiking near Red River. I liked being works with 60 eligible low-income students there because it’s a beautiful place, and (9th- and 10th-grade) who are potential nature is relaxing.” first-generation college students. The Upward • “I would like people to be more cautious Bound students were provided training in of what they are doing. We need to take interview techniques and then asked each care of the water and not pollute it . . . I other (and other peers) questions about time believe it’s important to stop littering and spent outside with their families; special polluting, especially the water because memories of time spent outdoors; whether that belongs to everyone—to us and to the their family is engaged in local agriculture; animals.” cultural traditions related to land and water;

28 taos county community conservation plan final report INTERVIEW SPOTLIGHT

Interview spotlight on open space and agriculture: “I would advocate for community “I like the way [a community garden] agriculture, and I feel like sustainability would be structured; take what you of community agriculture would benefit would put in. But I also really like the this small town. For example, one local community garden idea because I market provides local fresh food, but think it would be really good to get it’s expensive food. So I feel like if we the community together to work on were to have more – only saying this the earth and make it better. Earth because we take economics – but if Day just happened and I feel like a lot we had more supply the price would of people just got together for that, be better because there would be and it’d be nice to see that all the time more choices than choosing just the so a community garden would be a expensive option. I think [open space great foundation or a great start to and community gardens] is beneficial get people together and working as for people’s health.” a community to better the place that they live in.” —BRANDON TRUJILLO (AGE 18) —DIANA ARREOLA (AGE 18) rich reid

High Country Ranch

taos county community conservation plan final report 29 CASE STUDY 2

be a key element of reintroducing agriculture. Rio Fernando Park: A The park would also accommodate community Vision of Truly Community- gardening plots, which have not been widely Based Conservation available in the past. Other efforts on the site would include restoration “The Fernando Park community of the Rio Fernando and wetland areas. These envisions a future in which all members restoration efforts would involve community volun- of the Taos community are invested teers and provide educational opportunities for and engaged in celebration and local youth. Community members also expressed conservation of our lands and in which a desire for expanses of natural space in the park our lands support the vitality of our where families could connect to “a quiet space community, economy, and culture.” to be in nature in town” without needing a car. Walking paths would be designed to access natural —RIO FERNANDO PARK VISION STATEMENT spaces and other amenities on the property.

The planned Rio Fernando Park is at the center Other ideas for the property that will be considered of Taos Land Trust’s commitment to preserving during a future master planning effort include local agricultural traditions and bringing more community event space; arts, culture, and history accessible close-to-home nature to the community. programming; an on-site residency program; and The Land Trust acquired 20 acres southwest of a small area for affordable housing. As it evolves, downtown Taos along the Rio Fernando adjacent to Rio Fernando Park will provide literal and figurative Fred Baca Park in December 2015. The property has space for community-building; restoration and acres of riparian land, a long-neglected acequia, research; environmental education; art; traditional and an urban forest complete with fruit trees with agriculture and land stewardship; and celebration towering cottonwoods that attract a diverse array of local history, culture, and identity. of birds—including some endangered species. As Kristina Ortez de Jones, Executive Director In 2016, Taos Land Trust engaged a consultant to of Taos Land Trust, says, “We want this park to work with local leaders and residents to determine be a celebration of community. We want it to a vision for the property. Input was gathered have everything. Space for solitude. Treehouses from conservationists, agriculturalists, historians, and tipis and natural play spaces where families community elders, artists and community arts can get together and kids can use their imagi- advocates, elected officials, and youth. The central nations outdoors. An interpretive nature and mission that evolved from community engagement prescription trail with signs designed by is for the Rio Fernando Park to “provide space local young people who have a deepened for the people of Taos to express, explore and understanding of local ecosystems. A thriving grow our community’s sense of querencia—the acequia. A community garden to help families rootedness of our culture in this place, this land, its eat healthier. Our community deserves this and history and future.” we want to make it happen.”

Community members want active agriculture to A poem for the Rio Fernando: be a centerpiece of the park—particularly space for demonstrating traditional local agricultural “Restore, inspire, imagine practices, including acequia irrigation and the Rebounding river ecosystem.” processing of traditional foods. Restoring and —MEG PETERSON, TEACHER/WRITER/BIRDWATCHER revitalizing the acequia on the property would

30 taos county community conservation plan final report 4. Mapping conservation values

“To Indian people the land is a defensible science and that input data and living thing. No matter who owns model results were accurate. the land . . . it is still sacred. And The maps created through the Community that is why conserving land in the Conservation Plan process are included below. future is such a critical thing.” The full criteria matrix used in developing the —LINDA YARDLEY, TAOS PUEBLO Community Conservation Plan maps is shown in online Appendix 3. THE TOP CONSERVATION GOALS FOR THE COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN were deter- Protect Water Quality and Quantity mined based on community engagement “Water will tell you where it needs results, particularly the community survey to go and where it can’t go, be and speak-out events described above. The top patient, listen and watch the waters four conservation goals for Taos County are (1) flow. The shovel and a connection Protect water quality and quantity; (2) Protect cultural resources, including traditional to the earth is all one needs.” agriculture; (3) Protect wildlife habitat; and (4) —MARK T. FLORES II, MAYORDOMO - ACEQUIA EN EL MEDIO/HART DITCH, CORDILLERA, RANCHOS DE TAOS Provide access to recreational opportunities. Water is a major concern for county residents. The GIS team from The Trust for Public Land The Rio Grande is a defining feature of the worked with community meeting participants local landscape. Taos is arid, and despite being and a technical advisory team to create maps relatively remote and sparsely populated, for each of these goals and an overall map many parts of the county have experienced combining the goals. Through analyzing and water quality issues as a result of runoff from modeling spatial data, these regional priorities agriculture, recreation, roads and highways, were translated into objective metrics and and resource extraction. Common contami- maps highlighting the areas where conserva- nants detected in the Rio Grande Basin include tion would best meet community goals. aluminum and selenium. Despite the area’s In moving from community engagement to long history of agricultural water use through GIS mapping and modeling phase, a tech- its traditional acequia systems, future water nical advisory team of local experts provided supplies are not guaranteed. strategic advice on data collection and Figure 2 shows the results of the Protect modeling. Local experts’ advice was invaluable water quality and quantity goal mapping. in developing the criteria for each priority; Criteria incorporated into the Protect Water identifying the best available data sources; map include (1) Protect riparian areas; (2) and advising throughout the process to ensure Protect and sustain soils; (3) Reduce cata- that modeling assumptions were based on strophic wildfire risk; (4) Protect acequias;

taos county community conservation plan final report 31 (5) Protect wetlands important for groundwater recharge; and (6) Protect headwater TABLE 3. WATER streams. Each of these criteria was given QUALITY PRIORITIES equal weight. Priority Acres There are 3,522 acres of the highest-priority lands for water quality throughout Taos Very high 3,522.26 County. These lands, listed as “very high” High 10,295.31 priority in Table 3, are located along rivers Moderate 109,238.75 and streams. Total 123,056.32 rich reid

The Rio Grande River

32 taos county community conservation plan final report CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

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d Y LE e L A V E Rio Grande IN

del Norte UNSH S National Monument Valle Vidal Latir Peak Unit Wilderness CERRO Carson National Forest QUESTA RED RIVER UV522 CERRO TRES MONTOSO SA E 38 PIEDRAS M UV A L L O B E C Columbine-Hondo COLFAX RIO ARRIBA Wilderness COUNTY COUNTY TAOS SKI N VALLEY O Y N A C EAGLE O D Wheeler Peak NEST ARROYO N O H Wilderness HONDO VALDEZ UV111 ARROYO UV519 ¤£285 SECO ¤£64 100 ENCHANTED CIRCLE UV SCENIC BYWAY

TAOS EL PRADO PUEBLO

Carson TAOS Priorities for protecting water quality National and quantity Forest RANCHOS Very high DE TAOS High UV567 554 Moderate UV TALPA Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area OJO Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway CALIENTE County boundary e d State boundary n a Ownership r PILAR G BLM i o R PICURIS Wilderness (USFS) PEAK Other Forest Service UV68 Carson National State Forest Tribal Conservation easement TRAMPAS

LLANO UT This map was created using a weighted CO overlay analysis based on the following water OK quality/quantity criteria: UV76 Protect riparian areas (17%) Protect and sustain soils (17%) AZ NM Reduce catastrophic wildfire risk (17%) TX Protect acequias (17%) MORA Protect wetlands important for groundwater recharge COUNTY (17%) 518 Protect headwater streams (17%) UV MEXICO SANTA FE 0 5 10 ± COUNTY Miles

Protect water quality and quantity TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN

figure 2 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

taos county community conservation plan final report 33 CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

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100 ENCHANTED CIRCLE UV SCENIC BYWAY

TAOS EL PRADO PUEBLO ¤£64

Carson TAOS Priorities for protecting cultural National resources Forest RANCHOS Very high DE TAOS High UV567 554 Moderate UV TALPA Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area OJO Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway CALIENTE County boundary e d State boundary n a Ownership r PILAR G BLM i o R PICURIS Wilderness (USFS) PEAK Other Forest Service UV68 Carson National State Forest Tribal Conservation easement TRAMPAS

This map was created using a weighted LLANO overlay analysis based on the following UT CO cultural resources criteria: OK

Preserve agriculture (13%) UV76 Preserve timber lands (13%) Maintain viable agriculture and acequia use (13%) AZ NM Protect important viewsheds (13%) TX Preserve soils suitable for farmland (13%) MORA Preserve historic cultural resources (13%) COUNTY Preserve pre-historic cultural resources (13%) Preserve piñon pine resources (13%) UV518 MEXICO SANTA FE 0 5 10 Miles ± COUNTY Protect cultural resources including traditional agriculture TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN

figure 3 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

34 taos county community conservation plan final report Protect Cultural Resources, cultural resources; and (8) Preserve piñon pine Including Traditional Agriculture resources. Each of these goals was given equal Taos County has a long and rich cultural weight. The highest-priority lands for this goal history. The Taos Pueblo has been continu- are in flatlands near waterways and towns, ously occupied for over 1,000 years. The area’s particularly near Taos, Ranchos de Taos, agricultural history and traditional acequia and Talpa. systems date back hundreds of years to the region’s original Spanish settlers. Figure 3 TABLE 4. PROTECT CULTURAL shows the results of the Protect cultural RESOURCES PRIORITIES resources, including traditional agriculture goal mapping. Criteria incorporated into this Priority Acres goal map include (1) Preserve agriculture; (2) Preserve timberlands; (3) Maintain viable Very high 12,417.74 agricultural sector and acequia use; (4) Protect High 47,155.85 important viewsheds; (5) Preserve soils suit- Moderate 152,934.25 able for farmland; (6) Preserve historic and cultural resources; (7) Preserve prehistoric Total 212,507.83 johnny and pam macArthur

Foothills Traverse trail

taos county community conservation plan final report 35 Protect Wildlife Habitat As described in Section 2, Taos County TABLE 5. WILDLIFE provides habitat for diverse wildlife. Figure HABITAT PRIORITIES 4 shows the results of the Protect wildlife habitat goal mapping. Criteria incorporated Priority Acres into this goal map include (1) Protect riparian Very high 60,984.37 habitat; (2) Protect threatened, endangered, and sensitive species habitat; (3) Protect High 207,519.11 migration corridors; (4) Protect unique habitat Moderate 226,439.72 cores; (5) Protect fish habitat; and (6) Protect Total 494,943.20 habitat for game and fish species. Each of these criteria was given equal weight. The highest-priority lands for this goal are located along waterways and in the southern tip of the county. rich reid

Mountain Bluebird perched on a branch

36 taos county community conservation plan final report CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

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d Y LE e L A V E R i o Gra n d e IN H S N d e l N o rte U S Nat i o n a l M o n u m e n t Va ll e Vi d a l Lati r Pe a k U n it W il d e r n e ss CERRO Ca r so n Nat io n a l Fo re st QUESTA RED RIVER UV522 CERRO TRES MONTOSO SA E 38 PIEDRAS M UV A L L O B E C Co lu m b i n e - H on d o COLFAX RIO ARRIBA W il d e r n e ss COUNTY COUNTY TAOS SKI N VALLEY O Y N A C EAGLE O D W h e e le r Pe a k NEST ARROYO N O H W il d e r n e ss HONDO VALDEZ UV111 ARROYO UV519 ¤£285 SECO

100 ENCHANTED CIRCLE UV SCENIC BYWAY

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Ca r s o n TAOS Nat i o n a l Priorities for protecting wildlife Fo re s t RANCHOS Very high DE TAOS High UV567 554 Moderate UV TALPA Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area OJO Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway CALIENTE County boundary e d State boundary n a Ownership r PILAR G BLM i o R PICURIS Wilderness (USFS) PEAK Other Forest Service UV68 Ca r so n Nat io n a l State Fo re st Tribal Conservation easement TRAMPAS

LLANO UT CO OK This map was created using a weighted overlay analysis based on the following wildlife 76 criteria: UV AZ NM Protect riparian habitat (17%) TX Protect T and E and sensitive species habitat (17%) MORA Protect migration corridors (17%) COUNTY Protect unique habitat cores (17%) Protect fish habitat (17%) UV518 Protect habitat for game and fish species (17%) M SANTA FE 0 5 10 EXICO Miles ± COUNTY Protect wildlife TA O S C O U N T Y C O M M U N I T Y C O N S E R V AT I O N P L A N

Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County May 8, 2017. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only. www.tpl.org

figure 4 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

taos county community conservation plan final report 37 Provide Access to Recreational ridges; (2) Create a network of connected Opportunities open space; (3) Encourage a variety of types of Community participants showed enormous recreation with a focus on access to streams enthusiasm for increasing safe opportunities and lakes; (4) Conserve recreation opportuni- to use parks and trails for outdoor recreation. ties identified in the Enchanted Circle Trails The Enchanted Circle Trails Plan process, Plan; (5) Identify gaps in local park access; and which was concurrent with the development (6) Identify gaps in access to public trailheads. of the Community Conservation Plan, The greatest weight was given to “Identify gathered detailed input about trail and gaps in local park access” (28.5 percent) and pathway priorities. “Identify gaps in access to public trailheads” (28.5 percent). As such, the highest-priority Figure 5 shows the results of the Provide lands for this goal are located near towns in access to recreational opportunities goal areas without access to parks and trailheads. mapping. Criteria incorporated into this goal map include (1) Protect prominent peaks and john miller

TABLE 6. ACCESS TO RECREATION PRIORITIES

Priority Acres

Very high 1,304.81

High 4,526.72

Moderate 18,137.89

Total 23,969.42

Splitboarding

38 taos county community conservation plan final report CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

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100 ENCHANTED CIRCLE UV SCENIC BYWAY

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Ca r s o n TAOS Priorities for providing access to Nat i o n a l recreational opportunities Fo re s t RANCHOS Very high DE TAOS High UV567 554 Moderate UV TALPA Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area OJO Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway CALIENTE County boundary e d State boundary n a Ownership r PILAR G BLM i o R PICURIS Wilderness (USFS) PEAK Other Forest Service UV68 Ca r so n Nat io n a l State Fo re st Tribal Conservation easement TRAMPAS This map was created using a weighted overlay analysis based on the following LLANO recreational opportunities criteria: UT CO OK Protect prominent peaks and ridges (8.5%) Create network of connected open space (8.5%) Encourage a variety of types of recreation with a focus UV76 on access to streams and lakes (8.5%) AZ NM Conserve priority recreation opportunities identified TX in Enchanted Circle trail plan (8.5%) TRUCHAS MORA Identify gaps in local park access (28.5%) COUNTY Identify gaps in access to trailheads on public land (28.5%) UV518 MEX SANTA FE 0 5 10 ICO Miles ± COUNTY

Provide access to recreational opportunities TA O S C O U N T Y C O M M U N I T Y C O N S E R V AT I O N P L A N

figure 5 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

taos county community conservation plan final report 39 Overall Map The overall map designates 54,499 acres as “In Northern New Mexico, la “very high” priority. Because of the dominance cultura has always been intrinsi- of water as a community priority and because water-related criteria such as conservation cally linked to the land and water. of acequias factored into the other goals as Ancient acequias have allowed for well, many of the highest-priority lands for water to flow out of the Sangre De the overall map are along key water features Cristo mountains, and like blood including critical streams, acequias, and vessels, has nourished the land- wetlands. scape—creating an oasis in the high desert. This culture is at risk though. Unchecked sprawl and TABLE 7. OVERALL COMMUNITY PRIORITIES development has fragmented the land. The culture, language, and Priority Acres % of County history is slowly being lost, and without a plan for the future, it Very high 49,673.80 3.8% will surely disappear.” High 177,018.76 12.5% —JOHN MILLER, SENIOR PLANNER/FLOOD PLAIN Moderate 270,550.67 17.3% MANAGER, TOWN OF TAOS Total 497,243.23 33.7% The overall map combines the results of each of the four goal maps described above; odonnell it identifies the areas where the greatest number of community goals can be “stacked” and met simultaneously through conservation of priority areas. The weighting of the goal maps within the overall map is based on the community survey results (see Section 3, Community Engagement, for more details).

• Protect water quality and quantity (38%) • Protect cultural resources including traditional agriculture (33%) • Protect wildlife habitat (16%) • Provide access to recreational

opportunities (13%) Kids exploring

40 taos county community conservation plan final report CONEJOS COSTILLA UV159 COLORADO COUNTY COUNTY NEW MEXICO

UTE MOUNTAIN

R SANGRE DE CRISTO i o CONSERVATION AREA G

d Y LE e L A V E R i o Gra n d e IN H S N d e l N o rte U S Nat i o n a l M o n u m e n t Va ll e Vi d a l Lati r Pe a k U n it W il d e r n e ss CERRO Ca r so n Nat io n a l Fo re st QUESTA RED RIVER

UV522 CERRO MONTOSO SA E 38 TRES PIEDRAS M UV A L L O B E C Co lu m b i n e - H on d o COLFAX RIO ARRIBA W il d e r n e ss COUNTY COUNTY TAOS SKI N VALLEY O Y N A C O D W h e e le r Pe a k EAGLE NEST N O ARROYO HONDO H W il d e r n e ss VALDEZ ARROYO SECO 519 £285 UV111 UV ¤

100 ENCHANTED CIRCLE UV SCENIC BYWAY

TAOS EL PRADO PUEBLO ¤£64

Ca r s o n TAOS Nat i o n a l Overall priorities Fo re s t RANCHOS Very high DE TAOS High UV567 Moderate UV554 TALPA Sangre de Cristo Conservation Area Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway OJO CALIENTE County boundary e d State boundary n a Ownership r PILAR G BLM i o R PICURIS Wilderness (USFS) PEAK Other Forest Service UV68 Ca r so n Nat io n a l State Fo re st Tribal Conservation easement TRAMPAS

LLANO UT CO OK This map shows the overall priorities of the Taos County Community Conservation Plan, UV76 based on the following four goals: AZ NM Protect water quality and quantity (38%) TX Protect cultural resources including traditional MORA agriculture (33%) COUNTY Protect wildlife habitat (16%) 518 Provide access to recreational opportunities (13%) UV SANTA FE 0 5 10 MEXICO Miles ± COUNTY Overall priorities TA O S C O U N T Y C O M M U N I T Y C O N S E R V AT I O N P L A N

Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County June 1, 2017. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only. www.tpl.org

figure 6 Special thanks to the following data providers: Taos County, Town of Taos, Taos Land Trust, and Taos Soil and Water Conservation District. Copyright © The Trust for Public Land. The Trust for Public Land and The Trust for Public Land logo are federally registered marks of The Trust for Public Land. Information on this map is provided for purposes of discussion and visualization only.

taos county community conservation plan final report 41 5. Funding for community conservation

A LONG-TERM, DEDICATED SOURCE OF LOCAL (see online Appendix 2) describes specific local REVENUE is at the heart of most successful funding opportunities, state funding sources, conservation funding programs. With a reli- and federal programs that may be available for able source of funds, local governments can land conservation in the town of Taos and Taos meet community goals and protect a region’s County. The major options for local funding most valuable resources. Local governments sources are described below. with established funding sources are much better positioned to secure and leverage GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS. Bonds are the funding from the federal government and most utilized tool for parks and conserva- attract other local and state government or tion purposes by local governments in New private philanthropic partners. Mexico, accounting for 12 of 19 measures on the ballot since 1996. The Town of Taos Over the last 30 years, nationwide advocacy could issue a bond for parks and open space efforts have coordinated effective programs purposes. A $2 million bond would cost the and campaigns to raise both awareness of average household about $35 per year. Taos and funding for open space. Between 1988 County could also issue a bond for open space. and 2016, over 75 percent of the more than A $9 million bond, for example, would cost 2,600 referenda on open space conservation the average household about $34 each year. that appeared on ballots across the United Voter approval would be required. Bonds States passed, most by a wide margin. In the provide several advantages over pay-as-you-go November 2016 election, voters across the funding, including the opportunity to make United States approved 70 funding measures significant land acquisitions in the near term to create more than $6 billion for parks and before the price of land increases. However, conservation—an 80 percent approval rate. this mechanism is not always appropriate or Earlier in 2016, voters had approved another feasible (for example, typically bond proceeds $3.3 billion for local parks, meaning that for may not be used for long-term stewardship). all of 2016, Americans approved spending almost $10 billion to protect land and parks in PROPERTY TAX. One New Mexico jurisdiction, their communities. Bernalillo County, has dedicated a property tax to parks and open space. New Mexico statutes In New Mexico, a range of public financing limit the maximum allowable mill levy for options have been authorized to fund parks county general purposes to $11.85 per $1,000 and recreation, including the property tax, of taxable value, and for municipal general local gross receipts/sales taxes, and general purposes the limit is $7.65 per $1,000 of obligation bonds. Because of the need to taxable value. Both the Town of Taos and Taos leverage many different types of funds, the County have capacity to levy a tax for open Taos County Conservation Finance Report space under these caps. For example, the Town

42 taos county community conservation plan final report of Taos could increase the mill levy by 0.5 per imposes the maximum level of capital outlay $1,000 assessed value, which would generate gross receipts tax. Taos County could amend more than $154,000 per year at a cost of $37 the capital outlay gross receipts tax ordinance to the average homeowner. Similarly, Taos to dedicate a portion to parks and open space, County could increase the mill levy by 0.5 per such as 0.0625 percent. Estimated revenue $1,000 assessed value, which would generate from the 0.25 percent capital outlay gross more than $691,000 per year at a cost of $36 to receipts tax for the 2015–2016 fiscal year was the average homeowner. over $1.9 million. Thus, dedicating 0.0625 percent to parks and open space could be esti- GROSS RECEIPTS/SALES TAX (GRT). The State of mated to generate nearly $493,000 each year. New Mexico has a statewide gross receipts tax and compensating tax rate of 5.125 percent. LODGING TAX. Proceeds from a municipal New Mexico’s municipalities and counties or county lodging tax may only be used for are authorized to impose local option gross tourist-related events, facilities, and attrac- receipts taxes for select purposes. tions. The Town of Taos currently imposes the maximum 5 percent lodging tax. Esti- The combined gross receipts tax rate in the mated revenue for the 2015–2016 fiscal year town of Taos is currently 8.1875 percent. The was $941,426. Taos could use a portion of this Town of Taos has capacity to levy an additional revenue to acquire land for parks, so long as 0.25 percent of municipal gross receipts tax the parks are intended for use by tourists. Taos in increments of either 0.125 percent or 0.25 County also imposes the maximum 5 percent percent, and this tax can be dedicated to parks lodging tax in the unincorporated areas of the and open space. Estimated revenue from the county. Estimated revenue for the 2015–2016 1 percent municipal gross receipts tax for the fiscal year was $280,350. The county could use 2015–2016 fiscal year was over $3.6 million. a portion of this revenue for parkland acquisi- Thus, an additional 0.125 percent could be tion, provided, again, that the parks estimated to generate more than $458,000 are intended for use by tourists. each year. The Town of Taos may also levy a capital outlay gross receipts tax in increments SPECIAL DISTRICTS. The Town of Taos and Taos of 0.0625 percent. Estimated revenue from the County have the option of establishing a 1 percent municipal gross receipts tax for the special district. Public improvement districts 2015–2016 fiscal year was over $3.6 million. (PIDs) are authorized to finance various Thus, a 0.0625 percent tax could be estimated infrastructure and improvements, including to generate more than $229,000 each year. streets, trails, parks, public buildings, libraries, cultural facilities, and equipment The combined gross receipts tax rate in and related costs of operation and adminis- the unincorporated areas of Taos County is tration. Tax increment development districts currently 7.125 percent. The county currently

taos county community conservation plan final report 43 (TIDDs) may use tax increment financing to equestrian, bicycle, or other nonmotor pay for nonvehicular trails, recreational facili- vehicle use for travel, pedestrian malls, ties, pedestrian malls, and library/educational/ parks, recreational facilities, and open space cultural facilities. Infrastructure development areas for public entertainment, assembly, and zones (IDZs) may provide a variety of services, recreation, including programming events for including trails and areas for pedestrian, the community. jane bernard

Sunset at Taos Valley Overlook

44 taos county community conservation plan final report 6. Implementing the Community Conservation Plan

IMPLEMENTATION STEPS FOR THE TAOS COMMU- Taos Land Trust, The Trust for Public Land, NITY CONSERVATION PLAN were developed and the Town of Taos, and the National Park refined during community meetings in August Service. The core team for implementation and November 2016. will be led by Taos Land Trust and the Town of Taos and will include The Trust for Public Please note: The core team for the creation of Land as needed. the Community Conservation Plan included

TABLE 8. TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN: IMPLEMENTATION STEPS

What and How Who When

a. Protect highest-priority local lands and resources

A.1. Create maps of the high-priority The Trust for Public Land Spring 2017 areas for conservation based on best scientific data and community input • Create brochure and report

A.2. Develop Community Conservation The Trust for Public Land 2017 Plan maps and web tool for strategic planning • Prioritize land protection where threats are strongest

A.3. Explore strategies for protecting Taos Land Trust 2017, land and promoting community health Amigos Bravos ongoing that do not involve purchasing land Taos County Soil and Water • Use plan as a starting point to work Conservation District with landowners and land managers Town of Taos on best management practices Taos County • Use plan to discourage developers from developing priority lands • Promote low-impact development (LID) in areas where development is appropriate

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taos county community conservation plan final report 45 CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

TABLE 8. TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN: IMPLEMENTATION STEPS

What and How Who When

a. Protect highest-priority local lands and resources

A.4. Develop community-based Taos Land Trust 2017, projects in priority areas that showcase ongoing the power of community conservation • Develop Rio Fernando Park • Develop ParkRx program with community health partners to help promote access to healthy outdoor activities

A.5. Promote policies that will help Taos Land Trust 2017, protect priority lands, including Alianza Agri-Cultura de Taos ongoing traditional working lands Taos Soil and Water Conservation • Work with local and regional groups District to advocate for strong local water rights for traditional agriculture and acequia systems • Advocate for agricultural designa- tion of all farmland—including land that was recently reclassified as nonagricultural by the state • Promote additional tax incentive policies to protect traditional working farms and ranches

A.6. Develop education programs to Taos Land Trust and core team 2017, promote appreciation and stewardship Amigos Bravos ongoing of close-to-home nature Enchanted Circle Trails Association • Work to connect all locals to the Rivers and Birds outdoors; focus outreach on Rocky Mountain Youth Corps Hispano and Pueblo communities Field Institute of Taos • Develop signage about good Las Cumbres Community Services stewardship in outdoor areas that ¡INSPIRE! PreK people are already visiting Paso Paso Network • Develop an outreach program to The Nature Conservancy discourage illegal dumping in open U.S. Forest Service space areas Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts • Assemble materials and train volunteers to do outreach at local schools—include training for conducting interviews with elders • Create materials to educate young people about traditional uses of local natural resources • Organize volunteer days to work on restoration projects and trash cleanup • Create education materials about conservation easements

46 taos county community conservation plan final report TABLE 8. TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN: IMPLEMENTATION STEPS

What and How Who When

a. Protect highest-priority local lands and resources

A.7. Incorporate Community Town of Taos staff and elected officials Spring/ Conservation Plan into town and Taos County staff and elected officials Summer county plans 2017 • Work with elected officials to pass ordinances and a joint resolution supporting the Community Conservation Plan • Coordinate closely with Taos County Comprehensive Plan update • Create targeted materials and outreach for elected officials

A.8. Ensure that public agencies are Taos Land Trust 2017, aware of the Community Conservation U.S. Forest Service ongoing Plan and its goals Bureau of Land Management • Work with federal and state agencies to help ensure that agency actions promote plan goals; review agency projects to determine potential conflicts

A.9. Create a working group of local Taos Land Trust 2017, government representatives and local ongoing organizations to drive implementation of the plan

B. Develop a strong communications strategy for the Community Conservation Plan

B.1. Build a communications strategy Taos Land Trust 2017 and outreach plan to showcase the The Trust for Public Land benefits of the Community Conservation Plan • Communications plan should include website, social media, newspaper, radio, and public open houses for diverse audiences • Information should be distributed in Spanish as well as English • Reach out to key partners such as landowners and developers with strategic communications • Work with UNM communications students to support development of communications plan

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TABLE 8. TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN: IMPLEMENTATION STEPS

What and How Who When

B. Develop a strong communications strategy for the Community Conservation Plan

B.2. Identify, engage, and train Taos Land Trust 2017 champions to drive policy and objectives of the Conservation Plan. In addition to core team, potential champions include: • Rocky Mountain Youth Corps • Local NGOs and civic groups: Amigos Bravos, River Keepers, Audubon • Hiking clubs • Chamber of Commerce • Taos County Soil and Water Conser- vation District • UNM

C. Develop a long-term strategy for using, updating, and adapting the Community Conservation Plan

C.1. Coordinate Conservation Plan The Trust for Public Land 2017, updates ongoing • Create a mechanism through until 2019 which the Conservation Plan and its corresponding communications strategy can be updated; ensure that updates happen annually (or more often) • Ensure that information about data sources is thorough and easily available to facilitate updates

C.2. Evaluate the Conservation Plan Taos Land Trust-led working group 2017, then annually, including 12 months after The Trust for Public Land annually implementation for 5–10 years • Develop metrics for measuring success: acres protected or restored, agreements implemented, partnerships developed, etc.

C.3. Convene core team twice per year Taos Land Trust Twice yearly to assess progress and adapt to changes The Trust for Public Land until 2020 as necessary

48 taos county community conservation plan final report TABLE 8. TAOS COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN: IMPLEMENTATION STEPS

What and How Who When

D. Identify and pursue traditional and nontraditional funding sources or actions to implement the Conservation Plan

D.1. Use Conservation Finance report Taos Land Trust 2017, from The Trust for Public Land as a The Trust for Public Land ongoing starting point for assessing funding options • Coordinate with local and federal agencies to seek grant funding

D.2. Identify potential incentives to assist Taos Land Trust 2017, landowners with voluntary conservation USDA Natural Resources Conservation ongoing Service Taos County Soil and Water Conservation District

D.3. Work with local groups to develop a Taos Land Trust 2017 local ballot initiative that would support The Trust for Public Land conservation and trails • Convene conservation finance workshop for core team and stakeholders • Conduct additional polling to gauge support and/or possible ballot language

taos county community conservation plan final report 49 7. Conclusion

IN MANY WAYS, TAOS COUNTY IS STRUGGLING— among local governments, public agencies, but it is also uniquely rich in spectacular and community partners—particularly Taos natural beauty and deep-rooted cultural Land Trust. These groups will need reliable traditions. Although divisions are entrenched funding and support for conservation, capaci- within the community, there is a great deal ty-building, and stewardship to be successful. of consensus about the need to protect water With help to protect its most special places— and acequias, the desire to preserve local and the cultural traditions these places agricultural traditions, and the need for more foster—Taos County can thrive and become, close-to-home access to nature. Meeting the as stated in the vision statement for this goals identified in this Community Conser- plan, a place “where cultural traditions are vation Plan and protecting the priority areas embraced and quality of life is excellent it highlights will take close collaboration because everyone is connected to the land.” todd barbee

Miranda Canyon view toward Taos

50 taos county community conservation plan final report 8. Participants

TABLE 9: INTERVIEW PARTICIPANTS

Name Organization Name Organization

April Winters Taos Pueblo Linda Yardley Taos Pueblo

Bev Valencia Taos Pueblo Mark Flores Taos School board member; Taos County Parks and Recreation

Cat Legere Taos Sports Alliance Mark Gallegos Taos County Commission

Curtis Sandoval Taos Pueblo War Miguel Santistevan agricultural Chief consultant

Darien Fernandez Taos Town Council Nick Streit Taos Fly Shop

Gabe Romero Taos County Patrick Taos Pueblo Fire Commission Kopepassah Program Manager

Jackie Martinez Taos Pueblo Raul Hurtado U.S. Forest Service

Jeremy Lujan Taos Pueblo War Richard Archuleta Taos Pueblo Lt. War Chief Secretary Chief

Jody Coffman Taos Pueblo Toby Martinez Taos County Extension Officer

John Bailey Bureau of Land Tony Valdez Taos County Management Extension Office

Lillian Torrez Taos School District

TABLE 10: TECHNICAL ADVISORY TEAM

Name Organization Name Organization

Attila Bality National Park Louis Fineberg Town of Taos Service Planning

Ben Thomas Rocky Mountain John Miller Town of Taos Youth Corps Planning

Bill Adkinson Trout Unlimited Mark Henderson Old Spanish Trail Association

Charlie O’Leary Santa Fe Matt Foster independent local Conservation Trust planner

Doug Pickett Taos Cyclery Rachel Conn Amigos Bravos

Jeff Muggleston Carson National Shannon Amigos Bravos Forest Romeling

Kip Price William Brown Sage West Consultants

Linda Fair taos county community conservation plan final report 51 TABLE 11: COMMUNITY MEETING PARTICIPANTS

Name Organization Name Organization

Adriana Blake Enchanted Circle Chris Ellis Trails Association

Adrienne Village of Taos Ski Chris Furr Carson National Anderson Valley Forest

Alex Cserhat Chris Smith Taos Land Trust

Amy Morris The Trust for Public Chrissy Pepino The Trust for Public Land Land

Andy Jones Taos Magazine Christopher Smith Taos Land Trust (board member)

Andy Leonard Upward Bound Cindy Brown

Angela Bates Colette Kubichan Snow Sports, Taos Ski Valley

Annette McClure Craig Saum Carson National Forest

Attila Bality National Park Dan Barrone Taos Mayor Service

Barbara Dry Red River Dan Jones

Barry Weinstock BLM Daniel Escalante RER, Casa Taos

Ben Soderquist Darien Fernandez Town Councilor, Town of Taos

Ben Thomas Rocky Mountain Darren Bond Gearing UP Bike Youth Corps Shop

Ben Wright Taos Tree Board David Lewis ART

Beth Robinson David Mount cyclist

Beth Searcey David Patton

Bill Adkinson Trout Unlimited David West

Bill Christmas Davie Dittmar Food Not Bombs

Bill Knief University of New Eddie Dry Red River Mexico-Taos

Bill Petterson Peterson Ventures Edward Vigil Taos County Planning Director

Caitlin Legere Elisabeth Brownell Brownell Chalet

Carl Colonius Enchanted Circle Elizabeth Palacios Taos Community Trails Association Foundation

Charles Doughtry Renewable Taos, Inc. Eric Garner Carson National Forest

Charlie O’Leary Santa Fe Ernie Attencio The Nature Conservation Trust Conservancy

52 taos county community conservation plan final report Name Organization Name Organization

Fred Gifford The Trust for Public John Ubelaker SMU Land

Fritz Hahn Taos Town Council Joseph Chupek cyclist

Gary James Not Forgotten JR Logan Taos News Outreach

Gary Jones Karina Armijo Xynergy

Gillian Joyce Rio Chiquito Karlis Viceps

Greg Hiner The Trust for Public Ken Murrell Land

Hal Margolis Kerrie Pattison Northside M&B Alliance of TSV

Hank Friedman Taos Sports Alliance Kimberly Jackson Taos Land Trust volunteer

Hannah Miller Taos Land Trust Kip Price

Jack Lewis U.S. Forest Service Kristina Ortez de Taos Land Trust Jones

Jake Caldwell LOR Foundation Lafe Harrower Lucas Construction

Jason Corzine The Trust for Public Lara Miller The Trust for Public Land Land

Jean Stevens Laura McCarthy The Nature Conservancy

Jean Stevens Environmental Film Lawrence Baker Festival

Jeanne Green Leilani Dean

Jeff Muggleston Carson National Linda Fair Forest

Jessica Harrower Linda Hodapp

Jim Dostal Linda Yardley Taos Pueblo, Taos Land Trust

Jim May Lindsay Mapes Zia Rides

Joe Riter Lore Pease El Centro Family Health

Joe Wells Loren Bell

Joe Zupan Louis Fineberg Taos Town Planner

Joel Serra Aqualia Lynn Aldrich Taos Land Trust (board member)

John MacArthur Taos Saddle Club Madison Crossfit Taos Davisinger

John Miller Planner for Town of Mark Asmus Taos

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TABLE 11: COMMUNITY MEETING PARTICIPANTS

Name Organization Name Organization

Mark Fratrick Village of Taos Ski Paul Schilke U.S. Forest Service Valley

Mark Henderson Old Spanish Trail Peggy Nelson Agricultural Association Resolution Team

Mark White Taos County Pete French Taos Sports Alliance Community Distillery

Martha Moran Taos Saddle Club Peter Lamont

Matt Foster Peter Rich Carson National Forest

Matthew Van Taos Land Trust Polly Raye Rio Fernando Buren Neighborhood Association

Meg Peterson Friends of OV Priscilla Rokohl Birders, NM Audubon

Megan Hosterman Taos Land Trust Rachel Singer Crossfit Taos

Megan Lawson Headwaters Randolph Pierce Economics

Melissa Naylor Rich Montoya

Michael Rick Bellis Taos Town Manager Ritterhouse

Molly McMullin Appleseed Land Robbie Jackson Taos Land Trust Manager volunteer

Nancy Montoya Robert Silver Rio Fernando Neighborhood Association

Nathan Sanchez Chief Planner, Taos Robyn McCulloch The Confluence County

Nick Still 10,000 Wags Roger Pattison

Nina Anthony Taos Land Trust Rose Bauhs

Pam MacArthur Taos Saddle Club Rudy Perea Taos County Planning

Parvati Young Sandi Hill

Patrick Vigil Ojo Caliente Sanjay Poovadan Taos Land Trust

Paul Bryan Jones Taos Tree Board Shannon Parks The Trust for Public Land

54 taos county community conservation plan final report Name Organization Name Organization

Shannon Amigos Bravos Teresa Pisaño Taos Land Trust Romeling (board member)

Sheara Cohen The Trust for Public Tim Corner GIS Specialist, Taos Land County

Shelley Loveless RF Neighborhood Tim Rivera Association

Sonny Robinson Tim Rogers Santa Fe Conservation Trust

Stephanie Toby Martinez Agricultural Schilling Resolution Team

Stephen Mabrey Tom Romero NRG NHA

Steve Kennebeck Facilities Director, Trey Finnell cyclist Town of Taos

Susan Margolis Vince Rozzi

Susie Fiore Field Institute of Will Clem Taos

Susie Soderquist Will McMullan

Taylor William Brown Renewable Taos, Inc. Etchemendy

taos county community conservation plan final report 55

The Trust for Public Land 607 Cerrillos Rd., Suite F-1 Santa Fe, NM 87505 505.988.5922 photos: front, rich reid, jeff mugleston; back, nina anthony tpl.org