Volunteer crews and the New Mexico Forestry Division reported Friday that nearly 500 pine seedlings have been planted in the burn scars left by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The effort, overseen by San Miguel County’s Los Vigiles Land Grant, aims to restore the forest and protect the soil for the next two generations.
Local volunteers lead the re‑planting effort
About 300 of the seedlings were placed by the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps as part of their season‑ending capstone project. The remaining trees were planted by local volunteers and crews working under the guidance of Los Vigiles Land Grant President Eddie Quintana.
Why re‑planting matters
“The post‑fire landscape holds many microsites that will protect young seedlings in their early days,” the Forestry Division said in a statement. Fallen, burned trees and remaining stumps provide shade and wind protection that can give these year‑old pines a better chance to grow.
Quintana emphasized the long‑term vision: “It’s for the next two generations. Pine seedlings take several decades to reach full maturity. We’re putting in the work, but we probably won’t see the benefits. That’s for our grandchildren.”
Fire history and future plans
The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire remains the largest wildfire in New Mexico history, scorching 341,471 acres across San Miguel, Mora and Taos counties between April and June 2022. More than 900 structures were destroyed, and the fire was traced to U.S. Forest Service projects.
Los Vigiles Land Grant plans to plant an additional 500 seedlings before winter arrives, further bolstering the forest’s recovery. The organization hopes the new trees will stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and eventually restore wildlife habitat.
Community impact
Local residents see the tree‑planting as a tangible way to give back to the land that sustains them. By involving youth groups and volunteers, the project not only restores the environment but also strengthens community bonds and instills a sense of stewardship in the next generation.
For more information on how to volunteer or support the re‑forestation effort, contact Los Vigiles Land Grant at their San Miguel County office.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
