If the majestic landscapes of New Mexico’s mountains, rivers, and lakes are calling, the Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) is dedicated to ensuring your adventures in the Land of Enchantment are both enjoyable and safe. This charitable organization advocates for the exploration of public lands in a way that respects both nature and cultural heritage.
PLIA is currently working on a collection of short, informative videos designed to educate the public on key safety and respect topics. These include navigating rivers safely, fire risk mitigation, coexisting with wildlife, adhering to Leave No Trace Principles, and cultural sensitivity. While these videos are initially created for visitors to the Río Grande del Norte National Monument, the advice given is universally applicable to all outdoor excursions. The series will also feature a guided tour of the monument itself.
Quick Links
To offer an insight into what these videos will cover, they will be available for viewing on both the BLM and PLIA websites, and at the Wild Rivers and Río Grande Gorge visitor centers. The video series is designed to align with the Junior Ranger booklet, available at the same centers, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
River safety
In the northern regions of the state, particularly during periods of high water, the Río Grande draws those interested in rafting and kayaking with its challenging rapids. This experience is vastly different from the calm, leisurely journey along the southern stretches of the same river.
For all participants venturing onto the water, wearing a life jacket is essential. This rule applies even to skilled swimmers, as the shock from cold water can trigger an involuntary inhalation, leading to danger. A well-fitting life jacket can be crucial in turning a risky situation into a survivable one. For those tackling the rapids, including a helmet in your equipment is a wise choice. It’s also important to adhere to the 120-degree rule: if the combined air and water temperatures are equal to or less than 120 degrees, a thermal protective wet or dry suit should be worn.
Be cautious not to overestimate your abilities and engage in river activities that exceed your skill level. Always start from a recognized safe point and ensure someone is informed about your whereabouts and expected time of return. If you are not familiar with the river, consider using the assistance of a seasoned guide.
The Public Lands Interpretive Association is a nonprofit dedicated to enlightening and motivating visitors to America’s public territories.
Located at 6501 4th Street Northwest, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM, 87107
Story sponsored by Public Lands Interpretive Association PLIA
Fire safety
Wildfires are a major threat in Northern New Mexico, where a single spark can ravage ancient forests and endanger wildlife. These fires often spread to nearby communities, threatening homes and human lives. Therefore, taking preventive measures is crucially important.
Strict adherence to fire bans or restrictions is essential. For instance, at the Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde Recreation Areas in the Río Grande del Norte National Monument, campfires are permitted only in designated grills or fire pans. In some areas, particularly during dry periods, open fires may be completely prohibited. Avoid lighting fires on windy days, as embers can be carried far and start new fires. Always have a bucket of water ready before starting a fire.
When children are around, it’s important to educate them about the dangers of fire and supervise them closely to prevent accidents near fire pits. Making s’mores can be an enjoyable way to discuss fire safety.
Keep your fire small and never leave it unattended. Ensure it is completely extinguished, and the ash is cool enough to touch before leaving. When extinguishing the fire, thoroughly douse it with water, stir the ashes to reach all embers, and repeat until the fire is cold. If water is unavailable, sand or dirt can be used as an alternative.
Wildlife safety
The wilderness areas we cherish for recreation are the natural habitats of various wildlife species. At the Río Grande del Norte National Monument, it’s quite common to encounter animals using the land as a corridor between mountain ranges. To ensure safety in these encounters, it’s crucial to respect the space of these wild inhabitants. These animals, if given the chance, would prefer to avoid human contact, so it’s important to avoid making them feel trapped or cornered.
In the warmer months, you might come across rattlesnakes, often found sunning themselves on trails. It’s advisable to give them a wide berth and to be cautious about placing your hands in rocky crevices or stone nooks where they may be concealed.
Far too often, individuals exploring the outdoors leave behind remnants of their visit: snack packaging, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, used diapers, cigarette butts, and even abandoned clothing. This litter not only pollutes the environment but can also harm or even kill wildlife. Moreover, such trash ruins the scenery and diminishes the enjoyment for others who follow. The fundamental rule here is simple: whatever you bring with you, make sure to take it back out. Your visit should leave no trace, except for your footprints.
Cultural respect
The lands you explore may be sacred to Indigenous peoples. During your visit, you may come across ancestral artifacts, such as petroglyphs etched into rock or the ruins of ancient homes. These should not be disturbed or defaced in any way. If you encounter areas marked as off-limits due to their sacred nature, it’s important to respect these boundaries and not venture into these areas.
About Río Grande Del Norte National Monument
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the Río Grande del Norte National Monument is a landscape of high plains and ancient volcanic cones that has been a habitat for human settlement since prehistoric times. Today, this protected territory offers a wide array of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, viewing wildlife, and enjoying the river for which it is named. The Río Grande creates a dramatic gorge, plunging up to 800 feet below the surrounding plateaus and flatlands.
