ABQ Times

The ABQ BioPark and Chevron have announced a three-year partnership aimed at enhancing conservation efforts for native species in New Mexico. Chevron will contribute $200,000 annually, totaling $600,000 over the duration of the collaboration. This funding designates Chevron as an Official Conservation Partner of the BioPark, supporting projects that protect wildlife and habitats throughout the state.

"Conservation of wild things and wild places is paramount to our vision at the ABQ BioPark," stated Brandon Gibson, director of the ABQ BioPark. "Chevron’s partnership provides us with the resources to do instrumental work today and the opportunity to have a positive impact on tomorrow. This is incredibly significant for our team and our community."

The partnership focuses on advancing conservation science and education initiatives, starting with efforts to protect the near-threatened Rio Grande cooter turtle. The BioPark will collaborate with the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish and North Carolina State University to maintain a small assurance population aimed at preserving genetic diversity and facilitating reintroduction efforts.

A key component of this collaboration is promoting environmental awareness across the region. The BioPark plans to house native plants, butterflies, and other insects in its soon-to-open seed bank facility, ensuring these unique species continue to thrive.

"For over a century, Chevron has proudly been a part of New Mexico," said Ryder Booth, Vice President of Chevron North America Exploration & Production Company’s Mid-Continent Business Unit. "Our collaboration with the ABQ BioPark to safeguard the Rio Grande cooter and other native wildlife aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship in southeast New Mexico, where our employees live and work."

This initiative aims to enhance ongoing conservation programs at the BioPark by fostering connections between people and nature. By engaging with local biodiversity, it seeks to inspire future conservationists while protecting species threatened by extinction.

The New Mexico BioPark Society will manage this partnership by overseeing fund allocation for various conservation initiatives at the BioPark. These efforts are expected to bolster environmental awareness throughout the region.

"At the BioPark, our priority is to foster meaningful connections between people and nature," said Megan McCormick, development director for the New Mexico BioPark Society. "We are grateful for Chevron’s support which empowers us to expand our conservation programs, protect imperiled species, and ensure a healthier planet for future generations."