LA MANCHA WETLANDS RESTORATION PROJECT
What makes La Mancha so special?
COMMUNITY-POWERED RESTORATION
About La Mancha
La Mancha Wetlands Restoration Project is a four-acre man made wetland ecosystem in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. Its stewardship was passed on to Nuestra Tierra by Southwest Environmental Center (SWEC) in 2022. Over the years, community efforts transformed La Mancha into a sanctuary for countless species including birds, fish, bats, and humans.
Growing Impact
Nuestra Tierra coordinates year-round maintenance with volunteers, ensuring this vital wetland can remain accessible and open to the public while protecting its biodiversity. Community-led restoration efforts like our “Earth Day at La Mancha” focuses on clearing invasive tumbleweeds, maintaining trail paths, and pruning native plants like mesquite and cacti. Through dedicated community efforts, La Mancha Wetlands has expanded from 2.99 to 4.52 acres.
WHY ARE WETLANDS IMPORTANT?
Understanding Wetlands
Wetlands are nature's most productive ecosystems - areas where water covers the soil or is present at or near the surface year-round or seasonally. They act as natural water filters, provide flood protection, and are crucial habitats for diverse wildlife.
FROM CONCRETE TO CONSERVATION
History
In 2010, the Southwest Environmental Center (SWEC) began the La Mancha Restoration Project after years of advocacy to secure state funding and land access along the Rio Grande. The goal was to restore wildlife habitat, especially for fish suffering due to agricultural water diversion. When the irrigation season ends and the Rio Grande runs dry in southern New Mexico, fish have no refuge. This prompted SWEC to purchase a small property and start digging a pond, only to discover it was a concrete dump site. For the next decade, community efforts would transform La Mancha into a crucial wildlife sanctuary for countless species, including birds, bats, fish, and people.
Visit La Mancha Wetlands
Location
To find La Mancha Wetlands Restoration Project:
- Head west on US 70 W/W Picacho
- Turn left onto Fairacres Rd
- Follow the road, going under the bridge.
OR
Search for "La Mancha Wetlands Restoration Project" on Google Maps