Jemez Ranger Station. Courtesy photo
SFNF News:
SANTA FE — New building, same address! Surrounded by red rock canyons and cottonwoods, the new Jemez Ranger Station is located at 051 Woodsy Lane, the same scenic spot off NM Highway 4 in Jemez Springs. The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) celebrated the Jemez District’s new facilities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Friday, Nov. 4.
The old facility was built in 1966 south of Soda Dam. By 2007, it was obsolete and showing its age.
Discussions to replace or relocate it began, and the final decision was to rebuild at the Forest Service- owned site which is now occupied by a modern two-story office building, a warehouse, and a fire station large enough to house the district’s fire engines, equipment and crew.
“I want to thank everyone for their engagement and flexibility during this multi-year long project. It was not without challenges, one of which was mitigated with the help of the Valles Caldera National Preserve sharing office space with district employees,” Jemez District Ranger Brian Riley said. “And I also want to thank the community and local partners for their great support.”
In his remarks, Roger Sweet, Mayor of the Village of Jemez Springs, said, “We are very fortunate to have the Forest Service as a part of the community, preserving what we value and providing employment opportunities to residents of the village. We are hoping to become an International Dark Sky Community and appreciate that the construction of this building adheres to the International Dark-Sky Association standards.”
As finishing touches are completed and employees settle into the new building, the district is planning an open house to welcome members of the public to the modern space. For the immediate term, the Jemez office is selling fuelwood and Christmas tree permits over the phone at 575.829.3535 by credit card and mailing them to customers. When the ranger station opens its doors to the public, office hours will be Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
If you plan to visit any part of the Santa Fe National Forest over the holidays, know before you go and “be outdoor safe.” Check the weather forecast and be prepared for winter conditions.
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