Please note: the 2008 Dia del Rio will take place on October 18th. We're just beginning to plan this year's activities.

Please call 452-5216 for more information.

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Highlights from DÍA DEL RÍO 2007

Albuquerque – Rio Grande.  The very name “Rio Grande” conjures an image of a vast river with strong currents and leaping fish, unruly and arrogant, but generous--generous with its water and nutrients; generous with its beauty.  On Saturday, October 20th join us from 9:00am to 1:00pm for a celebration of the river and its precious bosque at the 13th Annual Día del Río celebration.  

“The Rio Grande is one of the most vital natural resources in New Mexico from which we all benefit,” said Mayor Martin Chávez.  He continued, “During this year’s Dia del Rio event, citizens will be able to witness first hand the exciting rebirth of the Rio Grande’s bosque and contribute to its continued recovery.” 

The Rio Grande is a matriarch of collective waters, flowing from its headwaters in the Colorado San Juan Mountains to its union with the Gulf of Mexico.  Along its 2,000 mile journey through mountains, canyons, desert and time it nourishes communities of plants, animals and people; feeding the rich natural and cultural history unique to this part of the country.  Throughout the life of the river, the river itself has always given life. 

A symbol of this life is the verdant band of green that runs through much of our state, the Rio Grande bosque.  Though wounded by recent fires, the unique cottonwood forests that grace our city and state continue to recover with help from our dedicated community and from Mother Nature. 

This year’s Dia del Rio event includes:

• Educational tables from organizations working to protect the Rio Grande and bosque.
• A variety of conservation activities.
• There will be activities for all ages, from trail work to trash pickup. 

The event is taking place at the Open Space Visitor Center located at 6500 Coors Blvd. NW between Paseo del Norte and Montaño Rd. NW at the end of Bosque Meadows Rd. 

Are you a boater?  Bring your canoe, kayak or raft and help clean trash out of the river.  (If you bring your boat, you must follow New Mexico State Parks boating regulations. Call 1-888-NMPARKS for more information.) 

Do you live near the bosque?  Or do you have a favorite area near the river?  Organize your own clean up the day of the event.  Open Space will provide trash bags and haul off the collected trash.

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD A VOLUNTEER INFORMATION PACKET HERE.

Help us honor and nurture the vital Rio Grande and its bosque.  Registration for Dia del Rio begins September 21 at the REI located at 1550 Mercantile Ave NE or call 247-1191.  For more information about Día del Río or to arrange your own clean up, call 897-8831.