Habitat Restoration and Ciénaga Conservation on the Pitchfork Ranch

Since 2004, A.T. & Lucinda Cole, founders of the Pitchfork Ranch in New Mexico, have been working to restore the ciénaga habitat that had been degraded by overgrazing. They constructed over 200 in-channel and 800 drainage grade-control structures, implemented sustainable gazing, replanted tree and vegetation, and reintroduced endangered wildlife species. These strategies help slow water runoff, prevent erosion, halt stream and sediment degradation, and support numerous wildlife and plant species. The restoration work was carried out through a collaborative effort among land managers, scientists, government officials, and restoration professionals, with funding from grants and state- and federally-funded programs.