New Mexico Acequia Association
Growing the next generation of acequia leaders
Youth education and outreach are central to the work of the New Mexico Acequia Association. Through these programs, young people engage with their local acequias and build the skills to become future community leaders.
In 2024, the Youth Leadership Institute graduated 18 participants, offering hands-on learning opportunities such as field trips and meetings with local acequia commissioners. Five students continued their involvement through the Youth Policy Internship, where they toured the state capitol and deepened their understanding of water rights in New Mexico.
The organization also leads school presentations across northern New Mexico, helping students understand the vital role acequias play in the culture, history, and economy of their communities.
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The Santa Fe Community Foundation invited its nonprofit partners to submit stories related to our April topic of Environment.
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