ABQ Times

The City’s Open Space Division (OSD) will temporarily close specific trails in the Bosque next week as crews from the City and New Mexico Forestry Division (NMFD) work on treating stumps of invasive trees. This effort is part of a forest health initiative aimed at reducing wildfire risk. The closures will affect areas on both sides of the Rio Grande, from just north of Central SW to just south of Bridge SW. The project begins on Tuesday, October 15, and is expected to be completed within a week.

“We’re taking proactive steps to preserve and protect the beauty of the Bosque for Albuquerque’s next generation,” stated Mayor Tim Keller. “The need now is to reduce fire risk and restore health to the ecosystem in the area.”

A nearly $1 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was secured by OSD and Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) to address wildfire risks in the Bosque. The first phase, completed in April, involved treating almost 200 acres with an emphasis on removing non-native species. Following this, a Habitat Action Plan was implemented by the City, which includes removing cut wood and mulch piles, planting native plants with volunteer support, and conducting follow-up treatments for invasive tree species.

Invasive species such as Siberian elm, Salt cedar, Russian olive, and Tree of Heaven have resprouted after initial treatment. Standard ecological restoration practice involves targeted spot treatment with small amounts of herbicide.

Invasive plants pose several challenges; they out-compete native flora leading to reduced biodiversity, water availability issues, soil health degradation, and increased fire risk due to dense growth.

“Temporary closures for retreatment will be brief and the retreatment is essential to protecting the large initial investment in the project,” said Parks & Recreation Department Director Dave Simon. “We appreciate the public’s patience while we improve the health of the bosque for years to come.”

Signs will inform visitors about temporary trail closures during crew operations. OSD advises staying out of closed areas while continuing efforts over several years to reestablish native vegetation for enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

For more information about this preventive work or becoming a Trail Watch or Fire Watch volunteer through OSD's website are available online.