Dia del Rio y Camino, October 3

PECOS, NM: The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, State Parks Division, in partnership with the Upper Pecos Watershed Association (UPWA), the Pecos Business Association, the Santa Fe National Forest, Roadrunner Gambler 505, and the Truchas Chapter of Trout Unlimited announces the annual Dia del Rio y Camino (River and Road) Litter Clean-up event to be held on Saturday, October 3, 2020 in Pecos Canyon.

The litter clean up event is designed to be a “drive-by event” due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in compliance with the current public health order.  Volunteers will pre-register and drive by to pick up cleaning supplies such as vests, gloves, and trash bags from UPWA at their office located at 78 South Main St., Pecos on the day of the event.  Each volunteer will be assigned an area to clean along the river or the road.  Trash bags can then be dropped off at the UPWA office for disposal. 

Volunteers must pre-register before the event at upwa@pecoswatershed.org or by calling 505-757-3600.   The project areas include: NM 63, NM 50, Dalton Day Use area, Dalton Fishing Site, Rainy Day area, Dalton Canyon dispersed camping area, North Mora campground, and the Cowles area.  In addition, there are clean-up sites within Pecos Canyon State Park including Bert Clancy, Terrero, Jamie Koch and Mora recreation areas.   In appreciation of their cleaning efforts, volunteers will be treated to a breakfast burrito from Pancho’s Café.

“The Pecos River carries our stories.  There is nothing like this river, and it is an honor to be able to organize this event.  Protecting our natural environment is our top priority and we take pride in keeping the Pecos Canyon clean as this area is very precious to our state.  Help us preserve our traditions and culture by joining this cleanup event,” said Magda Matecka, Administrative and Communications Coordinator for the Upper Pecos Watershed Association.

“This event showcases the meaningful partnerships between all agencies in Pecos Canyon and the dedication to resource stewardship and protection, said State Park Director, Christy Tafoya.  “In addition, the public’s participation in this event to protect Pecos Canyon is much appreciated.”

Remember that face coverings are mandatory in State Parks and group sizes must be kept to 10 people or less. To get the most up to date information about Park hours of operation and guidance visit the State Parks website.