March 7, 2009 another phase in the restoration of Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area was completed. This year 225 various shrubs were planted. The species planted were, Rocky Mountain Juniper, NM Olive and several others. Slotted PVC pipe were inserted along side of the shrubs, serving as a temporary watering reservoir. This area along with the past plantings can be flood irrigated.

About 45 volunteers were present to help plant the different varieties. Volunteers from several organizations including Venture Crew 356 (co-ed varsity Boy Scouts) from Rio Rancho, all enjoyed the morning activities and meeting.

When all phases are complete, the Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District views this area as an excellent opportunity for conservation education for Valencia County youth as well as the general public.

Area being seeded to native grass mix.

The Local chapter of the SWCS joined other volunteers on Saturday March 3, 2007, to help plant 400 trees at the Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area in Belen. The 97 acre tract is owned by the Valencia Soil and Water Conservation District and is historically known as the Whitfield-Trammell Property or the old Curran Dairy. The Conservation District is restoring the riparian conditions to the area that was once a dairy. As part of the floodplain of the Rio Grande, the area offers a rare opportunity to restore the backwater wetlands of the Rio Grande including permanent palustrine wetlands.

Four species of trees were planted, Cottonwood, Black Willow, New Mexico Olive and Screwbean Mesquite. The Cottonwood and Black Willow were poles and were planted directly into the water table. The new Mexico Olive and Screwbean Mesquite were planted with a slottled pvc pipe next to them, in case watering is needed.

The area will be watered by flooding. The concrete lined ditch and the outlets were cleaned .

When completed and fully mature the Conservation Area is positioned to become an attraction to visitors, bird watchers, hikers and students wanting to learn more about wetlands ecology and Bosque riparian ecosystems.

Standing Left to Right: Juan Gauna, Corinne Brooks, Paul Vainio, Jean Foster, Steve Kadas
Kneeling: Pete Stewart, Cliff Sanchez