At this hands-on field day, participants will learn how to improve water retention and soil health by working with the natural contours of the land. Through demonstration and hands-on practice, we will:

• Follow the land’s contour to create mulched pathways that slow down and capture water, helping to sustain existing plants and improve soil conditions.
  
• Enhance soil remediation by using mulch and organic materials to rebuild healthy, moisture-rich soil.
  
• Plant drought-tolerant cacti, such as nopales, along the top of the contour to stabilize the soil and reduce evaporation.
  
• Plant evergreen sumac, pomegranates, and saltbush at the lower end of the contour, where water naturally collects, providing better growing conditions.

By the end of the day, participants will have hands-on experience with regenerative land management techniques that enhance soil fertility, improve water retention, and support long-term plant health. Afterward, everyone will get to enjoy a free, grant-funded meal.

This field day is part of an ongoing effort to create a more resilient and productive landscape. Future events will build upon this work, ensuring long-term sustainability for the site.

Date: Saturday, April 12th 2025
Time: 12PM-5PM
Location: Corner of Cristo Rey and Joe Gutierrez Doña Ana, NM 88007

General Agenda:

12:00–12:15 PM: Welcome & Introductions
12:15–12:45 PM: Overview & Demonstration of Mulched Pathways
12:45–1:30 PM: Hands-On Activity: Creating Mulched Pathways
1:30–2:15 PM: Demonstration & Planting: Drought-Tolerant Cacti
2:15–3:00 PM: Demonstration & Planting: Evergreen Sumac and Saltbush
3:00–3:30 PM: Preparing for Future Plantings
3:30–3:45 PM: Recap & Q&A Session
3:45–4:00 PM: Transition & Cleanup
4:00–5:00 PM: Free, Grant-Funded Meal & Networking

What to wear/bring:

• Work clothes and shoes

• Sun protection

• Water bottle

• Gloves and goggles

This free field day is made possible thanks to generous support from the McCune Charitable Foundation, Nusenda Foundation, and #NoRegrets.

For workshop participants, a limited number of evergreen sumac plants--a native, drought-tolerant member of the mango/cashew family that makes small, tasty citrus fruits--will be available at the workshop for a subsidized price of $20. So that we can have your plants ready for you, please pre-order online at https://www.crucescreatives.org/event-6120949