ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – It’s been closed to visitors for more than half a decade but the work has finally finished on a popular picnic spot just outside of Albuquerque in the heart of the Cibola National Forest.
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Seven years after it closed down because of hazardous trees, crumbling trails, and a long list of put-off repairs, there is new life along the nine-mile picnic ground near Placitas.
“Today we gathered to celebrate a significant milestone in our commitment in preserving our natural heritage and providing accessible and recreational opportunities for all,” said Deputy Regional Forester Cecilia Clavet, USDA Forest Service Southwest Region.
The popular spot is back open now after years of work that started in 2017. The seven-year project was only sped up after federal lawmakers passed a bill in 2020 giving the project nearly $1 million dollars in funding. “This gave us the opportunity to completely remodel it,” said Christopher Nichols, Cibola National Forest program manager
That remodel helped overhaul the site with crews removing all the asphalt and replacing it with more natural crushed rock. “This picnic ground is sure to serve the public well once again the well-maintained infrastructure enables safe and healthy visitor use, “said Forest Supervisor Heidi McRoberts, Cibola National Forest and Grassland.
In addition, the picnic ground has new restrooms, upgraded roads more parking, and a few more picnic areas including both large and small tables.
“My ask is that you leave it better than you found it, follow those leave no trace principals, and just enjoy, enjoy nature and visit us,” said Deputy District Ranger Amanda Ginithan, Sandia Ranger District. “While national forest and grassland are ours to enjoy, now we must do better so the future generations can enjoy this site as much as we do now,” said McRoberts.
The picnic areas are on a first come-first-served basis. There is a $5 fee per vehicle with the funds being used to help maintain the area.
