Forest Mayordomos: A Collaborative Forest Management Strategy

The Carson National Forest (CNF) is at risk for high-intensity wildfires. Mimicking the Acequias traditional water-management system, the Cerro Negro Forest Council (CNFC) created forest mayordomos, or local managers who are a a pillar with local knowledge and heritage to serve the community within the Pueblo and Hispanic communities of northern New Mexico. Forest mayordomos oversee forest thinning, conflict resolution, and assist in plot assignments. They oversee woodcutters (leñeros) who thin smaller diameter trees in 1-acre plot to reduce wildfire risk. Leñeros are paid for their work, and often keep the firewood or distribute it within their community.