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SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe County would like to congratulate six local organizations awarded grants through the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s (NMEDD) Outdoor Recreation Division. These grants, part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Outdoor Equity Fund, will support impactful youth outdoor programs that promote environmental stewardship, personal development, and access to nature for young people across the county. Today, NMEDD announced its award of $851,400 in grants to 43 organizations, benefiting programs in 15 counties and seven Tribal communities.

The support these local organizations received through the Outdoor Equity Fund highlights the strength of our community" said Juan Torres, Manager of the Economic Development Division. "Investing in these outdoor programs helps us nurture the next generation of environmental leaders who will benefit from these experiences and share what they’ve learned with others."

Details of the Awarded Programs:

The Mayfly Project received $5,094.70 to provide youth in foster care with fly-fishing sessions that promote conservation ethics, personal growth, and outdoor recreation. The program is designed to give youth the therapeutic benefits of fly fishing while teaching them valuable environmental lessons.

Railyard Park Conservancy received $2,833.52 to support its Living Laboratory program, a pilot field trip initiative designed to engage youth with outdoor learning and play in Santa Fe's 11-acre Railyard Park. The program aims to spark curiosity about the natural world and introduce students to real-world conservation solutions.

Reunity Resources received $10,000 for its immersive Farm Camp, a season day camp offering hands-on activities like gardening, wildcrafting, clay/adobe play, cooking, and more, helping youth connect to nature and develop practical skills.

Trout Unlimited received $38,834.40 to support its annual Indigenous and Hispanic Youth Fly Fishing Camp. In partnership with The Uncivilized Outdoorsman, the camp reconnects youth from Indigenous and traditional Hispanic communities to their landscapes, cultures, and traditions through fly fishing and outdoor recreation.

Mountain Kids! received $10,000 to expand its Four Seasons program, providing Santa Fe Public Schools’ Title 1 students with seasonal, curriculum-based outdoor adventures that fostering a deeper connection to nature and providing valuable learning experiences.

YouthWorks received $20,000 to provide paid, outdoor experiential training and education to up to 50 Opportunity Youth (ages 14-24). The program offers opportunities in river and trail restoration, habitat improvements, and farm and agricultural projects.

Santa Fe County is thrilled to see these local organizations receive the funding they need to continue their important work in Santa Fe County. These programs are instrumental in providing youth with opportunities to engage with the natural world and develop the skills and confidence they need for future success.

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