City of Albuquerque Honors Dan Shaw with Bosque Trail Dedication

ALBUQUERQUE – The City of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation Department joined Bosque School, students, alumni, educators and community members today to dedicate the Dan Shaw Trail and commemorative sign in honor of longtime educator and conservation leader Dan Shaw. The ceremony celebrated Shaw’s extraordinary career and the lasting impact he has made inspiring generations of students to explore, protect and steward New Mexico’s natural landscapes.

The event featured remarks from Bosque School leadership, students and community members, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Students also shared personal reflections and musical performances before attendees gathered for a reception and walked the newly dedicated trail with Shaw.

“Dan Shaw has spent his life helping young people discover that the outdoors is more than something to enjoy it’s something to understand, protect and care for,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “His passion for conservation and hands-on learning has shaped generations of environmental leaders, and this trail ensures his legacy will continue inspiring Albuquerque families for years to come.”

“Dan Shaw has set the standard for outdoor science-based conservation education. He has impacted thousands of students and his legacy will endure forever.” said Parks & Recreation Director David Simon.

For more than three decades, Shaw has dedicated his career to protecting and preserving wild places while teaching students that science can create meaningful change beyond the classroom. As a co-founder of the Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program (BEMP), he helped establish one of New Mexico’s most influential environmental education initiatives, connecting more than 100,000 students to hands-on field science through Bosque School, Watershed Watch, BEMP and the CEBRIN Field & Community Science program.

Fueled by a passion for wildlife, natural spaces and ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging, Shaw inspired students to become scientists, conservationists and lifelong stewards of the Rio Grande Bosque. Together with his students, he documented key species and habitats throughout the Southwest, producing research that informed important management strategies for riparian areas along the Rio Grande. Throughout his 31-year career, he has mentored students, teachers and community scientists across New Mexico, creating a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.

“Dan is the heart and soul of Bosque School and the heart and soul of the bosque.” said Jessie Barrie, head of Bosque School.

Today’s dedication recognizes not only Shaw’s remarkable contributions to conservation education, but also the lasting impact he continues to have on students, educators and the Albuquerque community. The Dan Shaw Trail will serve as a permanent reminder of his commitment to protecting the Rio Grande Bosque and inspiring others to care for the natural world.