The Truchas Chapter of Trout Unlimited works to conserve trout through the protection and restoration of coldwater habitats.
But it’s not just about the fish.
Healthy coldwater riparian areas benefit all of us—and many of those beneficiaries are captured in the game camera photos below.
These images were taken near the top of Virgin Mesa in the Jemez, an area that sees heavy recreational use during the summer, much of it concentrated around creeks and riparian corridors. In partnership with cattle ranchers in the Jemez, our New Mexico Rural Engagement Manager, Toner Mitchell, and volunteers from the Truchas Chapter have helped establish watering troughs and grazing areas away from sensitive riparian zones. This reduces cattle pressure and erosion along streambanks while protecting critical habitat.
Just as importantly, this work helps build mutual respect between conservationists and cattlemen—groups too often portrayed as being at odds with one another. Through these efforts, we’ve identified and supported ranchers who practice responsible cattle husbandry and share a commitment to healthy landscapes.
As Toner notes, while the troughs are designed for cattle, they also benefit wildlife. Animals instinctively seek to minimize exposure to humans, and water sources located away from popular recreation areas allow them to do just that. The troughs help reduce the amount of time wildlife—both the animals people love and those they’re less comfortable with—spend near creeks where human activity is highest.
The deer, bear, bobcats, and cattle all thank you for supporting Truchas Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
