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The Candelaria Nature Preserve is a unique environmental area within Albuquerque’s Rio Grande Valley, offering a blend of wildlife habitat, open space, and conservation efforts. Located along the Bosque, this 167-acre preserve provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the natural landscape of the Middle Rio Grande while supporting ecological restoration efforts.
Originally farmland, the land was acquired by the City of Albuquerque in the 1970s and later designated as a nature preserve. It is managed in collaboration with local conservation groups, aiming to restore native vegetation and provide a habitat for wildlife. The area is closed to the general public to minimize human impact, but designated viewing areas along adjacent trails allow people to observe the preserve from a distance.
The preserve supports a variety of bird species, making it an important area for birdwatchers and researchers. Sandhill cranes, Canada geese, and a range of waterfowl visit during migration seasons, while hawks, owls, and songbirds inhabit the area year-round. In addition to birds, the preserve is home to coyotes, rabbits, and other mammals that thrive in the riparian ecosystem.
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Over the years, conservation efforts have focused on reintroducing native grasses, shrubs, and trees that support local wildlife. Invasive plant species have been removed to encourage the growth of cottonwoods, willows, and other vegetation that naturally occurs along the Rio Grande. These restoration projects help improve soil stability, reduce erosion, and enhance the overall health of the environment.
Although public access to the preserve is restricted, visitors can enjoy views of the landscape from nearby trails, such as the Paseo del Bosque Trail. This multi-use path runs through the Rio Grande Valley State Park, offering glimpses of the preserve and its wildlife from designated viewing areas. Interpretive signs provide information about the history, ecology, and ongoing restoration projects in the area.
The Candelaria Nature Preserve represents Albuquerque’s commitment to protecting and restoring its natural environment. As restoration efforts continue, the preserve will remain a vital space for wildlife and an educational resource for those interested in conservation and ecological sustainability. By maintaining this protected area, the city ensures that future generations can appreciate the ecological significance of the Middle Rio Grande region.
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