The City of Albuquerque’s Parks and Recreation Department (PRD) and community partners celebrated the acquisition of two properties, totaling 33 acres, in the Tijeras Arroyo Biological Zone. These land acquisitions are especially significant as they protect an 8-acre property that includes the original settlement site of the Carnué Land Grant, and a 25-acre property along Tijeras Creek that that will serve as an education center, trailhead, and focal point for environmental stewardship and restoration efforts.

Funding for these land acquisitions, which cost a total of $1.4 million, came from the City’s 2019 General Obligation Bond, two percent of which is set aside for open space acquisition.

“These acquisitions are major successes for the Tijeras Arroyo BioZone project. This will enhance conservation, cultural resource protection, recreation, and education efforts for the community,” said Parks and Recreation Director Dave Simon. 

“Protecting these special lands along Tijeras Creek enhances our community and is an important investment for current and future generations,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This furthers our work to bring outdoor access and education to folks across our city.” 

The 8-acre site near the Carnué exit on I-40 is a registered archaeological site/cultural property and includes the original settlement site of the Carnué Land Grant.  Saving the property was especially important to protect the Land Grant’s history and living heritage.  The Parks and Recreation Department. and the Land Grant plan to work together to protect and interpret the site.  The 25-acre property includes a prime section of riparian zone along Tijeras Creek, as well as foothills.  The property has ample parking and will serve as a portal that connects to an extensive Open Space trail system, as well as a site for environmental education and restoration activities. The site also has a rich and varied history of human use. The two acquisitions bring the total protected Open Space lands within the Tijeras Arroyo BioZone to 343 acres. 

“These key land acquisitions in the Tijeras Arroyo BioZone are something we should never take for granted. Our children and their children will enjoy this space for generations to come,” added City Councilor Renee Grout.

This story is a staff report from The Paper.