Supporting Sandia Ranger District Since 1997
Notices and Highlights
Everyone
– We love our mountains!
– Monsoon season is here!
– Learn about Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) at July 1 membership meeting
– Forest Service announces relaxation to Stage 1 fire restrictions
– FOSM works with Talking Talons Youth Leadership (TTYL)
– Bernalillo County and Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District announce volunteer workday
– Forest Service seeks comments on Sandia Man Cave improvement project
– Check out new bird-watching webpage
– Forest Service issues public safety notice
– Sandia Ranger District seeking volunteer recreation stewards
Members
– Welcome our new members
– Paint crew leader needed
– New officers needed in 2026
– Time to report May hours
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Volunteer Opportunities
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Painting and Graffiti Removal
Youth Outreach
If you enjoy the outdoors and would like to give something back,
join Friends of the Sandia Mountains!
We Love Our Mountains*
Whether you are a hiker, mountain biker, cross-country skier, trail runner, or you just enjoy being in the Sandias, you know that our mountains are one of nature’s special gifts.
Have you ever wondered what you could do to help protect our mountains? Do you want to learn more about the animals and plants you find there? Do you like to meet people who share your concern for the Sandia and Manzanita Mountains?
Welcome! Please explore our website to learn more about the goals and many activities of the Friends of the Sandia Mountains (FOSM). We likely have volunteer opportunities that match your interests and abilities.
*Technically, it’s Sandia Mountain (singular), but we often use the plural to recognize the existence of northern and southern peaks.
New to Albuquerque or just new to the Sandias? Explore the many recreational opportunities our mountains offer. Please carefully read the Safety section.
Please check out our La Luz Trail webpage if you are planning to hike this iconic but too often dangerous trail.
An easy way to get involved is to join Cibola Trail Rangers, an email group consisting of hikers, bikers, XC skiers, horsemen, etc., who frequent the trails in the Sandia Ranger District and are interested in exchanging information on trail conditions on both an immediate and continuing basis. The group includes FOSM members trained to correct reported problems.
Please report corrective actions as well as problems so the FOSM trail maintenance crew doesn’t hike to fix a problem that no longer exists.
FOSM member Sally Lowder maintains a comprehensive database of reported trees and their disposition.
Take the Tram to the Top⏤an Unforgettable Experience!
Sandia Peak Tramway makes the top of the mountain easily accessible and one-way hikes of La Luz Trail possible, but be sure to check their website before starting your journey.
Weather and Road Conditions
“Monsoon Burst: BIG Rainfall Incoming”
June 23, 2025 – Kerry Jones writes:
Exciting to watch weather models and forecasts for the past 7+ days. The usual ups-n-downs, but– WOW– the model trends have been pretty darn consistent– we are in for an abrupt change to stormy, WET and cooler weather beginning tomorrow (Tuesday) lasting through Wednesday night or Thursday morning.
Multiple waves of heavy thunderstorm rainfall will bring widespread 1-3″ totals to the Sandias/Manzanitas, East Mountain communities, extending up to Santa Fe with at least 1/2″-1″ totals likely for the Middle RGV. These totals will span roughly a 48–60-hour period, but a majority of the heavy rain will likely occur between late morning tomorrow (Tuesday) through early Wednesday morning. Since we will be dealing with thunderstorms, the heaviest (I’d say torrential at times) rainfall will be localized and some areas will likely get pounded while others may miss out. But, overall, the large-scale pattern will support widespread coverage of showers and thunderstorms!
A big reason why this pattern has trended so positive is thanks to a stronger-than-average low-pressure system currently over the Sierra Nevada/western Nevada that will slowly shift our direction. Southerly flow ahead of this system will continue to pull deep sub-tropical moisture northward from Mexico that was boosted by former Cat 3 hurricane Erick that struck southern Mexico about five days ago as the first major hurricane of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season that officially began just over a month ago on May 15. It’s a bit early in monsoon season to get this type of moisture surge, but we’ve seen this play out before (2022, 2006 come to mind). Drier air will begin to win over the area by Thursday-Friday as that low pressure system swings through. But these are the patterns that typically jump start monsoon season in NM. We’ll see…
Aryn LaBrake to Speak about Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) at July 1 Membership Meeting
Mark your calendars to hear Interim Executive Director Aryn LaBrake educate to us about the Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA).
Date and Time – July 1, 6:00 PM (Note new starting time)
Location – Sandia Ranger Station conference room
Program Abstract – Since 1981, the Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) has been a steadfast presence in the Southwest, committed to educating and inspiring users of public lands. Based in Albuquerque, NM, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit partners with federal agencies in New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas, including the Sandia Ranger District of Cibola National Forest, to enhance visitor experiences and foster stewardship. PLIA staffs visitor centers and campgrounds, operates onsite bookstores, answers visitor questions, and provides outreach on responsible recreation. The organization develops interpretive materials like maps, publications, kiosks, media, and educational programs for all ages. Through its collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and other public land agencies, PLIA ensures visitors receive the tools, guidance, and experiences necessary for responsible recreation and conservation. Through its efforts, PLIA bridges gaps in agency resources and strengthens public engagement with Forest Service lands. For more information, visit PLIA’s website.
This presentation will provide an in-depth look at the Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) and its role in supporting visitors and public land users. A key focus of the presentation will be PLIA’s collaborative efforts with the Sandia Ranger District, as well as highlighting how the organization has worked alongside the U.S. Forest Service to enhance visitor experiences and stewardship across the Southwest. Presenters aim to explore innovative ways in which PLIA can serve as a strategic partner to the community and organizations dedicated to supporting and preserving the Sandia Ranger District.
Speaker bio – Aryn LaBrake has dedicated her career to advancing public lands stewardship and conservation through strategic leadership, nonprofit management, collaborative partnerships, and fundraising. With extensive experience in environmental and conservation organizations, she has led initiatives that expand access, strengthen community engagement, and improve financial sustainability. Since January 2025, she has served as Interim Executive Director of the Public Lands Interpretive Association (PLIA) and now transitions into the role permanently. Previously, she led the Friends of Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge (2016–2021), spearheading innovative programs and lasting partnerships. Her consulting work with the Public Lands Alliance (PLA) and other mission-driven organizations further solidifies her expertise in nonprofit leadership, fundraising strategy, and stakeholder engagement. Taking on PLIA’s Executive Director role is a capstone in her career, where she will apply her experience and vision to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and impact.
Presentation materials from previous meetings and information about future meetings can be found here.
Mountainair and Sandia Ranger Districts Downgraded to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – June 18, 2025 – With increased live fuel moisture levels and green up, the Cibola NF & NGs leadership has lowered previously implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions to Stage 1 fire restrictions on the Mountainair and Sandia Ranger Districts effective June 18th. See maps attached.
Stage 1 fire restrictions mean fires, campfires, charcoal grills, and coal and wood stoves are allowed only in developed campsites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided for use on the Mountainair and Sandia Ranger Districts.
Campfires are prohibited at all dispersed camping sites on the Mountainair and Sandia Ranger Districts per this Stage 1 order. Stoves, lanterns or heaters fueled by propane or other liquefied petroleum fuels may be used district-wide in areas cleared of flammable materials within three feet of the device, if they meet manufacturer’s safety specifications and have on/off switches. Smoking is allowed only in enclosed vehicles or buildings and developed recreation sites. Chainsaw use is permitted.
Forest managers consider several factors for determining fire restrictions, including current fire danger and fire activity, current and predicted weather, fuel moisture levels, availability of firefighting resources, and local, regional and national fire preparedness levels.
While previous precipitation brought some relief to these areas, fire managers ask the public to always practice fire safety with anything that can spark a fire. Leaving your campfire unattended is illegal year-round. Campfires must be dead out – cold to the touch – before you walk away. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on national forests.
The official stage 1 fire restriction order for Mountainair and Sandia Ranger Districts (03-03-00-25-12) is posted on the Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands Alerts & Notices
Mt. Taylor and Magdalena Ranger Districts remain in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions until further notice:
- Mt. Taylor Ranger District: Stage 1 Fire Restriction effective April 18 (order 03-03-02-25-05).
- Magdalena Ranger District: Stage 1 Fire Restriction effective May 22 (order 03-03-03-25-08).
Any fire related information and updates will be posted on the Cibola NF & NGs website, New Mexico Fire Information website, and the Cibola NF & NGs Facebook & X pages.
For more information contact the appropriate district office:
Mt. Taylor Ranger District: 1800 Lobo Canyon Rd., Grants, NM 87020 (505-287-8833)
Magdalena Ranger District: 203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825 (575-854-2281)
Mountainair Ranger District: 40 Ranger Station Rd., Mountainair, NM 87036 (505-847-2990)
Sandia Ranger District: 11776 Hwy. 337, Tijeras, NM 87059 (505-281-3304)
FOSM Working with Talking Talons Youth Leadership (TTYL) Crew
June means it time for us old-timers once again to enjoy being around a delightful group of hard-working young adults. Each year at about this time Talking Talons Youth Leadership (TTYL), Sandia Ranger District, and FOSM partner to provide an opportunity for a half-dozen or so TTYL participants to gain boots-on-the-ground experience working in the Cibola National Forest. This year’s activities focus on a major project to restore dilapidated fencing around Kiwanis Meadow on Sandia Crest.
The TTYL crew’s work with FOSM ended on Wednesday, June 18. Details and photos from this year’s activities (and previous years’ activities) are available here.
Bernalillo County and Ciudad Soil & Water Conservation District Planning Volunteer Workday
June 12, 2025 – Bernalillo County and Ciudad Soil & Water Conservation District are planning a volunteer work day on August 2 at the TCWRP (between Los Vecinos Community Center and A Montoya Elementary School), primarily focused on controlling invasive non-native vegetation. Annie Montes will provide updated information about work day scheduling as the date approaches.
Your participation will be much appreciated!
Steve Glass, Board Chair
Ciudad SWCD
Comments Sought for Sandia Cave Improvements Project
The Sandia Cave Improvements Project will address public safety, repeated vandalism to the site, and current visitation demands that are increasingly impacting the safety, environment, and the visitor experience. The Forest Service is proposing a series of upgrades to the current infrastructure that have been designed to help the Sandia Ranger District manage the site at a level commensurate with its status as a National Historic Landmark, Traditional Cultural Property, and Significant Cave.
To learn more about the proposal and how to participate in the public scoping process, please visit the project webpage at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/projects/sandia-cave-improvements-project.
A print copy of the scoping letter, which includes the proposal, will also be available at the front desk of the Sandia Ranger District Office, 11776 HWY 337 Tijeras, NM 87059 and the Supervisor’s Office, 2113 Osuna Rd NE Albuquerque, NM 87113.
Please submit comments no later than June 30, 2025.
Bird-Watching Webpage Added to Site
May 23, 2025 – Webmaster Cliff Giles wrote: FOSM Members/Volunteers, thanks to the several of you who responded to my request for help with an inquiry about finding rosy finches in the Sandias earlier this week. Special thanks to Mark Aspelin, who pointed the inquirer to his blog providing step-by-step instructions.
Our website is not just a tool for communicating with FOSM members. The Recreation page and its subpages get hits from all over the world. For example, 559 Google searches during April were directed to our website with 128 landing on our Hiking webpage (and 119 landing on a separate La Luz Trail webpage created with the help of Jamey Browning).
What little I know about birding wouldn’t fill a hummingbird’s nest. I found the recent communications interesting and with Mark’s help added a Bird Watching webpage providing information to birders who happen upon our site. Please spread the word to any bird watchers you know.
Forest Service Issues Public Safety Notice: Northern Goshawks Defend Breeding Territory
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – May 21, 2025 – The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands is advising visitors to the Cienega and Sulphur recreation sites on the Sandia Ranger District that a pair of Northern Goshawks are defending a mating territory along the Amijo, Pine Drop, Cresta, and Valle Trails. Northern Goshawks often defend their breeding territories during nesting season with aggressive behavior, including loud vocalizations, swooping down, and, in rare cases making contact with intruders.
We are strongly encouraging visitors to avoid this area. Visitors that choose to recreate in this area should move quietly and calmly, wear wide brimmed hats, eye protection, and stay alert. If a Goshawk is encountered through alarm calls or defensive behavior, leave the area immediately while keeping eyes on the bird.
“The Northern Goshawk is a large and powerful forest dwelling bird of prey that depends on mature forests to thrive. The Goshawks have started to defend their breeding territory within the Sandia Mountains. Forest Service staff have received reports of these Goshawks aggressively swooping down on forest visitors. The Goshawks will continue to defend their territory through the middle of August, when the young fledge and venture out on their own. This unique species is an important part of a healthy forest ecosystem, and it is important that the public let these impressive raptors have the space and safety they deserve to raise their young successfully. Choosing another part of the district to enjoy is safer for both the Goshawk and for you.” Andrew Ellis, Wildlife Biologist – USDA Forest Service – Sandia Ranger District.
Visitors to the Sandia Ranger District are encouraged to explore other recreation sites and trails on the Cibola National Forest at: www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/recreation
Further information contact the Sandia Ranger District:
11776 Hwy. 337, Tijeras, NM 87059 (505-281-3304)
Click on any image to enlarge.
Forest Service Seeking Volunteer Recreation Stewards
April 3, 2025 – Julie Padilla, Sandia Ranger District Recreation Staff Officer, issued the following bulletin:
We are advertising though Volunteer.gov for up to 4 volunteer Recreation Stewards on the Sandia Ranger District to assist this season with recreation duties, such as site cleaning, landscaping, public interaction and light maintenance duties, and are offering free RV camping with full hook ups at the District Office, or limited hook ups at Capulin, Cienega, or Doc Long picnic areas.
We would greatly appreciate assistance in sharing this opportunity out far and wide! If anyone belongs to any social media RV groups, knows of anyone who might be interested or has any other ideas for sharing, please do.
Member Messages
Welcome, New FOSM Members!
Jon Cooper – June 2
Bart Vanden Plas – May 29
Jay Wulf – May 23
Scott Forman – May 5
Nancy Gloman – April 27
John Braly* – April 11
Bill Perkins – March 31
Ira (Bud) Bickford – March 19
Noel Wagner – March 15
Craig Tucker – March 11
Roger Squires – March 11
Richard Fagioli – March 3
Jim Houle – March 3
John McNett – March 2
Carolyn Grady – March 2
Brandon Sanchez – February 26
John Samuli – January 26
Caleb Kirby-Meyer – January 23
Mimi Junick* – January 5
Scott Nicolaysen – December 26
*Life sponsor
Volunteer Opportunities
Paint Crew Leader – Thanks, Anne Hickman for your years of faithful service as leader of the paint crew. Anne has stepped down due to other commitments. Please use the form on the referenced pages if you would be interested in assuming this leadership position.
Vice President – Cliff Giles has announced that he will not seek reelection after 5 years as FOSM vice president. Please let a member of the board of directors know if you are interested in assuming this position in October.
Treasurer – Jeff Young has announced that he will not seek reelection after his current term as FOSM treasurer. Please let a member of the board of directors know if you are interested in assuming this position in October.
Time to Report Volunteer Hours for May
Expect a monthly call for hours going forward during Forest Service fiscal year 2025 (October-September).
*The weekly crew leaders (Bob, Sam, Laura) have already provided their crew’s hours by individual into our FY2025 FOSM hours tracker, so if you signed an attendance sheet, your hours are already covered.
*Basically, report any and all individual time spent in a FOSM activity which pertains to the District.
Additional guidelines for reporting hours can be found here.
