The New Mexico Reforestation Center is set to break ground on a 155,000-square-foot greenhouse facility to address a severe seedling shortage following major wildfires. Director Jennifer Auchter highlighted the need for 385 million trees across existing burn scars in the state. The project aims to triple current production capacity amid ongoing recovery from the Hermit’s Peak-Calf Canyon Fire.
New Mexico faces a daunting reforestation challenge after wildfires scorched 7 million acres since 2000. The Hermit’s Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, the largest in state history, alone requires 17.6 million seedlings to replant its burn scar. Current facilities produce only about 250,000 to 300,000 seedlings annually at the John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center, far short of demand, leading to reliance on out-of-state suppliers from Idaho that struggle in local conditions, according to Jennifer Auchter, director of the New Mexico Reforestation Center. Experts warn it could take 50 years to replant the major burn scar at present rates. Trees are vital for stabilizing hillsides and protecting water sources, with forests supplying around 70% of the state's water from snowpack and precipitation, Auchter explained in an interview with High Country News. The center, a collaboration between the state Forestry Division and universities including the University of New Mexico, New Mexico State University, and New Mexico Highlands University, will expand infrastructure in the northwestern part of the state. Conceived in 2022, the facility processes over 1,500 pounds of native seed annually using innovative methods like a repurposed chili roaster. It targets tripling capacity to 5 million seedlings yearly while conducting research for future climates. University of New Mexico models seedling survival for 2100 conditions, using drones and ground monitoring, while New Mexico State University tests drought conditioning and shade planting techniques for species like ponderosa pine and aspen. Auchter emphasized a 'right tree, right place' approach tailored to the Southwest, differing from Pacific Northwest models, and anticipates benefits for neighboring Four Corners states like Arizona and Colorado. Community engagement includes school programs near Mora, where students participate in seed work and art projects to foster long-term conservation awareness.