Capulin Snow Play Area Work Group
Bob Heiar
Dear friends and partners of the NM Outdoors Coalition,
One of the fundamental tenants of the New Mexico Outdoors Coalition and that of many of its member organizations is to promote outdoor recreation. In many ways we focus these efforts on getting youth outdoors. What better way is there to get youth outdoors in the winter time than sledding?
Over the past several years the Cibola National Forest and Sandia Ranger District have struggled to provide staffing and maintenance of the Capulin Snow Play Area. The Forest Service is committed to providing an environment for youth and adults alike to enjoy the natural wonders of the snowcapped Sandia Mountains. Tough fiscal times, reduced staff, and dry winters have challenged the Forest Service and made the site relatively undesirable for a private company to operate under a special use permit. We want to reopen this area but we can only do it with your help.
This email is a preliminary announcement for the formation of a work group to explore opportunities beyond traditional management options to reopen Capulin Snow Play Area. This may require the efforts and collaboration of multiple levels of government agencies, non-profit/non-governmental organizations, and for-profit businesses. I am asking for participation of those interested in finding and contributing to a solution. If you think you have something to contribute or have questions please send me an email.
I am looking for ACTIVE participation in the work group. Many people have expressed their support for reopening the area, which is appreciated. However we need people who can:
#1. Bring resources to the table (time, money, equipment, labor, etc.)
#2. Brainstorm creative ideas of how to find the resources it takes to open and manage Capulin
#3. Brainstorm creative ideas of how to accomplish the many services necessary for opening and managing Capulin Snow Play Area.
There are many challenges to overcome but together, through hard work and determination, we can find a way to reopen Capulin Snow Play Area once again and provide that much needed outlet to get kids in the woods.
If you feel you can actively contribute to this effort please contact me. I look forward to working with you,
Bob Heiar
Recreation Staff Officer
Sandia Ranger District, Cibola National Forest
11776 Hwy. 337 Tijeras, NM 87059
Voice: (505) 281-3304 X 115
Email: rhe...@fs.fed.us