Santa Fe Standard

Santa Fe County has announced that six local organizations have been awarded grants through the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Outdoor Recreation Division. These grants, part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Outdoor Equity Fund, aim to support youth outdoor programs promoting environmental stewardship and access to nature. A total of $851,400 in grants was distributed among 43 organizations across 15 counties and seven Tribal communities.

Juan Torres, Manager of the Economic Development Division, stated, "The support these local organizations received through the Outdoor Equity Fund highlights the strength of our community. Investing in these outdoor programs helps us nurture the next generation of environmental leaders who will benefit from these experiences and share what they’ve learned with others."

The Mayfly Project received $5,094.70 for fly-fishing sessions designed for youth in foster care to promote conservation ethics and personal growth. Railyard Park Conservancy was awarded $2,833.52 for its Living Laboratory program aimed at engaging youth with outdoor learning in Santa Fe's Railyard Park.

Reunity Resources secured $10,000 for its Farm Camp offering hands-on activities such as gardening and cooking to help youth connect with nature. Trout Unlimited received $38,834.40 for its Indigenous and Hispanic Youth Fly Fishing Camp which reconnects youth with their cultural landscapes.

Mountain Kids! was granted $10,000 to expand its Four Seasons program providing curriculum-based outdoor adventures for Title 1 students from Santa Fe Public Schools. YouthWorks obtained $20,000 to offer paid training and education opportunities in river restoration and agricultural projects for Opportunity Youth aged 14-24.

Santa Fe County expressed enthusiasm about these organizations receiving necessary funding to continue their work in engaging youth with nature and developing essential skills.