BLM Offers May Outdoor Events
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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering five outdoor events in May that will take advantage of southern New Mexico’s weather and natural resources. The BLM events are geared to individuals, family, friends, and civic organizations from all age groups. The BLM encourages the public to take time from their busy schedules to enjoy the outdoors and the wonderful resources virtually in their backyards.
Nestled in the Organ Mountains foothills, the Dripping Springs Natural Area will be the location for the events. The public is invited to attend any or all of the events and enjoy hiking, bird-watching and learning about the history and people of the area. In addition, the public will have an opportunity to help the BLM and the Friends with trail maintenance and trash clean up. Located east of University Drive and Dripping Springs Road, the Dripping Spring Visitor Center (Visitor Center) has ample public parking and is within walking distance to all of the following events. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Saturday, May 13 – International Migratory Bird Day
9:00 a.m. – A photography bird hike will be conducted on Dripping Springs Trail.
10:00 a.m. – A (bilingual) bird hike will be conducted on Dripping Springs Trail.
Bring your cameras and binoculars.
Friday, May 19 – La Cueva Hike and the Real Story of the Hermit
6:00 p.m. – A hike will be conducted La Cueva to showcase the dwelling of a famous monk.
7:30 p.m. – At the La Cueva Amphitheatre, Author David Thomas will make a special presentation on his book: Giovanni Maria de Agostini, Wonder of the Century: The Astonishing World Traveler Who Was a Hermit.
Saturday, May 20 – Dripping Springs Clean Up Event
8:00 – 10:00 a.m. - The Dripping Springs clean up and trail maintenance will encompass five miles of trails. All volunteers, young and old, are welcome.
Saturday, May 20 – Dripping Springs Twilight Hike
4:00 p.m. - From the Visitor Center, the hike will highlight the history of the people who lived in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. The hike will end at sundown – so bring your flashlights!
Sunday, May 21 – Artist in Residence Hike and Paint-Along
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. - Heidi Annalise, a Colorado painter and the Artist-in-Residence, will share her creative ideas for capturing the Monument’s vibrant essence through a hike and a paint-along. Space is limited and RSVPs can be made to info@organmtnfriends.org or 575-323-1423.
Participants for these events are asked to dress appropriately and to remember their outdoor essentials – water, snacks, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. For more information, contact the BLM Las Cruces District Office at 575-525-4300, or the Friends of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks at 575-323-1423.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.