Northern New Mexico Indigenous Farmers

Northern New Mexico Indigenous Farmers, Inc. (NNMIF) proposes an Outdoor Equity youth program that provides Indigenous and rural youth with meaningful, recurring access to outdoor spaces through land-based education, agriculture, and stewardship activities rooted in cultural knowledge and environmental responsibility. The project will engage youth in hands-on outdoor experiences including gardening, nature study, conservation activities, and guided exploration of local agricultural and natural landscapes. Programming will be delivered through seasonal outdoor workshops, youth workdays, and educational field experiences designed to build confidence, physical activity, environmental awareness, and a sense of belonging on the land. Primary goals of the project include: Increasing equitable outdoor access for Indigenous and rural youth who face geographic, economic, and historical barriers to outdoor recreation. Strengthening youth connection to land, food systems, and environmental stewardship through culturally grounded programming. Supporting youth physical, mental, and social well-being through regular outdoor activity. Introducing youth to career pathways in agriculture, conservation, outdoor education, and land stewardship. Programming will be delivered by NNMIF staff and community partners with experience in Indigenous agriculture, youth education, and outdoor facilitation. Activities will prioritize safe, welcoming environments and emphasize respect for land, water, and cultural teachings. This project aligns with the Outdoor Equity Fund’s mission by expanding access to outdoor experiences, fostering stewardship, and supporting the next generation of land caretakers. By centering Indigenous values and community leadership, the project creates a sustainable, culturally relevant model for youth outdoor engagement in rural New Mexico.