Rooted in Community June 14th Event

Tree Care, Community, and Conservation: June 14th at Mark Armijo Academy 🌱

On June 14th, Nature Niños hosted a powerful community event at Mark Armijo Academy that brought together students, families, and local partners for a hands-on day of environmental learning, tree care, and connection.

As part of our youth-led Urban Forestry Initiative in the South Valley, this event marked the kickoff of summer programming and our first tree distribution of the season. Together, we:

🌳 Distributed 42 trees and tree vouchers to local families
🧺 Provided tree care kits including collapsible water bags, slow-release watering rings, mulch, stakes, bilingual planting guides, and canvas totes
📚 Shared resources from community partners like the Water Authority and Tree New Mexico, including info on rebates, xeriscaping, irrigation, and more
🌿 Engaged youth crews in educational conversations about tree care, climate resilience, and their role in shaping healthy, thriving neighborhoods

The YCC crews participating in our program had previously received training on traditional water conservation methods—specifically, ollas used in dry New Mexican landscapes. They created educational materials and hands-on demos to share this cultural knowledge with event attendees.

This day wasn't just about planting trees—it was about planting roots of stewardship in the hearts of young people. Through every conversation, connection, and tree planted, our youth are helping reshape the South Valley's urban landscape, one sapling at a time.

We're so proud of their leadership and grateful to Mark Armijo Academy, our incredible community partners, and the families who showed up with open hearts and shovels in hand. 💚

Stay tuned for more planting days this fall—there's more to grow!