Dear Community,
As summer winds down and the first hints of fall begin to stir in the air, we’re reminded that this season is one of transition, learning, and renewal.
With back-to-school energy all around us, we at CESOSS are excited to share Ciclos de la Tierra -a free, culturally relevant, bilingual curriculum rooted in water, land, community, and ancestral knowledge.
Whether you're an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, we invite you to explore this resource and step into the new season grounded in tradition and possibility.
Please take a moment and a deep breath to acknowledge the season shifting and the sacred nature of our water, and one more breath of gratitude to our teachers and students throughout New Mexico.
Thank You For Your Presence
Polk Middle School
From a small garden to a school farm that feeds families.
Outdoor learning is an educational approach that utilizes the natural environment and outdoor spaces as a context for learning, moving beyond the traditional classroom setting. It emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning, where students engage with their surroundings to enhance their understanding of academic concepts and develop life skills.
Polk MS inspires us with their devotion to outdoor learning. Their Garden of Dreams (Jardín de los Sueños) has evolved into a farm that feeds their community.
Travis McKenzie, a teacher at Polk MS and a longtime food justice advocate, urges all educators in New Mexico to join the Teachers Network for help with developing garden education plans and culturally relevant curriculum that will put water and land back into the hands of our people.
Joining the Teachers Network is free, it is open to everyone, and it is us co-creating the world in which we want to thrive. Online registration for the network is coming soon.
ver en Español
Goats vs. Invasive Plants
Photo credit to Stephanie Russo Baca
The use of goats for invasive plant removal enhances ecosystem health, reduces wildfire risks, conserves water, and promotes biodiversity. This innovative approach combines traditional practices with modern methods for a sustainable future.
Over the past year, the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District has initiated restoration on 580 acres in the bosque using many techniques - including the use of hungry goats.
ver en Español
The Rio Runs Dry
NM Insiders Podcast Episode
For the second time in 40 years, the Rio Grande is dry in our metro area. On the NM Insiders Podcast, Jason Casuga, Chief Engineer & CEO of the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District discusses storage restrictions, water supply, and the Rio Grande Compact.
pray for rain
Armijo y Atrisco Acequias Walk & Talk
Our group walked along Sanchez Farms
on June 28th, 2025.
Thank You for joining us!
What is a Walk & Talk? It's an opportunity to explore historic acequia sites while learning about their local impact and cultural history. These hourlong outings are led by community experts and allow for discussions and questions, plus a beautiful view on an enchanting day.
What to Bring...
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Comfortable Walking Shoes
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Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen)
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Water
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Camera for Memories
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Curiosity!
Honor Community Knowledge
The Pajarito Landmarks Project seeks to increase community accessibility, connectivity, safety, and visibility to acequias in the Pajarito Community of Albuquerque.
Throughout the project, CESOSS’ Cultivando Nuestro Futuro Leadership Institute will work closely with the Pajarito community to create five interactive signs along the Pajarito acequia. Each sign will have a specific focus in which community members’ knowledge will be honored.
