SECRET ABQ: Bosque Ponds

SECRET ALBUQUERQUE

Bosque Ponds


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In Downtown along the Rio Grande there has been the Albuquerque Bosque Restoration Project. Many people are familiar with the Tingley Ponds recreation area now used for picnics, fishing, model boat racing and paddle boat rentals. The area is connected by the BioPark train, road, the bike path along the Rio Grande, and hiking trails throughout the Bosque.

Far fewer people are aware of the ponds located in the Bosque that are part of a wetlands restoration project. The ponds only have hiking trail access (from the bike trail), and people and pets not allowed in the water. They located just west and a bit south of the Tingley Ponds.

The ponds are part of a larger goal to restore three distinct wetland communities (deep marsh, shallow marsh and wet meadow) to the riparian ecosystem, as well as provide additional habitat for wetland dependent wildlife like amphibians, fish and waterfowl.

The entire Ecosystem Restoration Project in the Bosque would involve 26 miles, from Corrales to the Pueblo of Isleta. Because the Rio Grande isn't allowed to flood as it would do naturally, due to agriculture, urban development and flood protection, it is estimated that the riparian habitat has been decreased anywhere from 40% to 90%. The lacks of flooding and wetlands not only harms wildlife, it also creates a fire danger to the Bosque and the surrounding city.

The willows and cottonwood trees along the Bosque are reaching the end of their current life spans. They rely on new flooding to germinate. The restoration project will help replant the Bosque with native species.


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