From 9 am until 3:30 pm
At Black Canyon, Gila NF
Join New Mexico Wild Wilderness Rangers and Heart of the Gila to treat invasive plants in the Black Canyon, a gorgeous mixed conifer canyon bordering the Aldo Leopold Wilderness! With lots of opportunities for recreation nearby, this area is home to native trout streams and other ecologically important habitat, and is the subject of many restoration efforts following multiple fires. We will be focusing our project on bull thistle, cheatgrass, and orchard grass, and treating infestations via hand pulling, digging, and lopping (using tools when working with thistle).
We recommend arriving at the Lower Black Canyon Campground on Friday night to set up camp, and be ready to start our project at 9AM on Saturday. We may invite volunteers to stick around for an optional half day of restoration work or nearby project scouting on Sunday, depending on our progress.
Campground notes: This camping location has a pit restroom and picnic areas. There is room for campers or trailers. However, there is a steep stream crossing, so long trailers are not recommended. There is NO potable water at this campground, so be sure to pack water accordingly.
Travel notes: The approach to this campground covers 26 miles on a dirt and rock road, requiring a capable medium to high clearance vehicle. If you are interested in participating in this project but don’t have a capable vehicle, please reach out! We will work with the whole group to set up carpooling arrangements.
What to bring: your own meals for camping Friday night through Sunday mid-day, plenty of water, layers appropriate for changing temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions, sun protection (layers, sunscreen, hat), long pants and close-toed shoes appropriate for working outdoors and on uneven terrain. We will provide all work tools and protective equipment needed. You’re welcome to bring your favorite work gloves if you have them, but work gloves will also be provided.
Nearby activities/places to visit: hiking in Rocky Canyon, sight-seeing in Silver City, Forest Road 150 provides access to the Gila and Aldo Leopold Wildernesses, various hiking trails, opportunities to view wildlife, and more.
**NOTE: The Gila NF is currently under Stage 2 Fire restrictions, meaning pressurized fuel cooking options ONLY.**
Register using the form below!
