Blog: The Great Outdoors Runs in My Blood
By: Darlene Vigil, District 3 Commissioner of Taos, New Mexico.
At an early age, I was introduced to the great outdoors, and still to this day, it runs in my blood.
On the weekends, my family and I were fortunate to explore the wonders of nature - roam the mountains, hike, and camp on some of the amazing landscapes in New Mexico. I am blessed to say that camping was in my backyard.
As a nature lover, I am concerned about valuable and awe-inspiring public lands being destroyed. Caja del Rio is one of the most ecologically rich and culturally significant landscapes in New Mexico that is at risk. I am worried that if we don't move quickly to protect Caja, we're going to lose the ability to have something for future generations to enjoy and learn about this beautiful place which is a convergence of cultures. This magical place faces different threats, including vandalism of cultural sites, illegal dumping, and misuse. I want my family and grandchildren to experience Mother Nature as I have, and as an elected official I am determined to make sure that New Mexicans have the opportunity in the future to enjoy places like Caja del Rio, just as I did and still do today.
Water is life, and being from Taos, New Mexico, you learn to value it at a young age. Water flows so close to our homes in Taos, Santa Fe, and other areas in Northern New Mexico. Therefore, my family and I would make sure to conserve and use it well. It has been engraved in me the importance of having quality and quantity of this essential liquid.
As a resident of a state where agricultural lands are so important, we must understand where our water comes from and support good water policy. The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is an excellent example of the work we need to continue doing to protect places like Caja del Rio and other areas vital for our communities. It's all about the history that's on the land and protecting it- being good stewards of the land.
My goal has always been to ensure we amplify the voices of Hispanics. Being part of HECHO as a Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council (HCLC) member provides me the opportunity to be heard and empowers me to achieve important goals in the conservation world.
I stand for and believe in HECHO’s mission and vision. The HECHO team understands the importance of coming together and protecting precious public lands to which we have a deep connection. I will continue to advocate and inspire our communities to enjoy the great outdoors—hiking, fishing, hunting, or camping. But I also want to encourage and inspire our community to protect our public lands and waters for future generations.