GSS Heads Back to New Mexico

In October, a dedicated team of three from GSS embarked on a week-long fieldwork trip to New Mexico to verify wetland landscape changes across two key project areas. Spanning five days, the trip focused on restoration sites, streams, rivers, and the unique mountain wetland features that characterize the region. The primary goal was to collect data for an updated mapping project of the Canadian River basin and Jemez Mountain areas, which is set to be finalized by the winter of 2025.

The team—Andy Robertson, Zack Ansell, and Isabelle Ostrem—was joined by staff from the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) and other stakeholders, broadening the scope and expertise involved in the fieldwork. Based in Jemez Springs, the team traveled across the diverse New Mexican landscape, covering an impressive 1,400 miles as they journeyed north to Chama and east to Taos. Along the way, they observed a variety of landscapes, from pristine mountain wetlands to perennial riverine systems.

These collaborative field observations will play a crucial role in the mapping update, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate representation of the region's evolving wetland landscapes. The trip not only provided valuable data on the health of these vital ecosystems but also highlighted the incredible diversity and beauty of New Mexico’s natural environments. With the successful completion of this fieldwork, the team is now one step closer to finalizing the mapping project, which will serve as an important tool for future conservation and restoration efforts in the region.