OPINION: Safeguarding NM natural resources ensures a safer and healthier New Mexico

As a board member of the Ciudad Soil & Water Conservation District, I’ve had the privilege of working to protect Central New Mexico’s natural resources for over 20 years. With a career spanning over 45 years in natural resources protection, I’ve witnessed the vital role our water, forests and soil play in ensuring the health of our communities and ecosystems.

The work we do at Ciudad is essential for balancing environmental conservation with the needs of the people who live here.

Since our creation in 1944 by landowner referendum, Ciudad SWCD has been dedicated to promoting the conservation and responsible use of natural resources across both rural and urban areas in Bernalillo and Sandoval Counties. New Mexico soil and water conservation districts are authorized under state law to collaborate with partners, both public and private, and for Ciudad SWCD our partnerships focus on:

Stormwater and floodplain management: We work to manage urban stormwater and prevent flood damage while ensuring that rivers and streams remain healthy and clean.

Soil conservation: We collaborate with farmers and landowners to improve soil health and prevent erosion, which helps sustain agriculture and protect landscapes.

Wildfire risk reduction: We implement forest restoration projects that reduce the risk of devastating wildfires, particularly in the Sandia and Manzano ranges, ensuring the safety of our homes and communities.

Wildlife habitat restoration: We help restore critical ecosystems, particularly along the Rio Grande, to protect biodiversity and provide safe habitats for wildlife.

Environmental education: We offer education programs for both youth and adults to foster environmental stewardship, ensuring the community understands the importance of conservation.

This year, Ciudad has a mill levy ballot question which will provide essential funding to expand and enhance the work that we’re already doing with grant funds and interagency agreements. The ballot question proposes a small levy increase that will generate over $6 million annually to fund conservation projects.

These funds will help protect drinking water by improving stormwater management, reduce wildfire risks through forest restoration, and restore critical wildlife habitats along the Rio Grande. They’ll also support sustainable agriculture by partnering with local farmers and conserve natural areas, ensuring everyone in the community has access to outdoor recreation and the beauty of New Mexico.

The Ciudad SWCD has been a steadfast leader and partner in protecting our region’s resources, but this funding will allow us to do so much more. The funds will be managed responsibly, with all revenues and expenditures subject to an independent annual audit to ensure accountability and transparency.

This ballot question is not just about environmental protection, it’s about ensuring the health, safety and well-being of our entire community including those who are often overlooked. With your support, we can continue to safeguard the natural resources that make Central New Mexico a unique and beautiful place to live. By voting yes on this ballot question, you are investing in the future of Central New Mexico.

Together, we can make a huge difference in protecting our drinking water, reducing wildfire risks, restoring wildlife habitats and preserving natural landscapes for future generations.

As someone who has spent a lifetime working to protect our environment, I strongly urge you to vote yes on Nov. 5. This is our chance to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for our communities, and your vote can make all the difference.

Steven Glass is chairman of the Board of Supervisors of the Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District and lives in Albuquerque.