Homes in Silver City’s Silver Heights neighborhood received 27 new trees through a coordinated community planting effort focused on expanding the area’s urban canopy. Supported by the Southwest New Mexico Community Forestry Network and grant funding, the initiative provided drought-resistant trees at no cost to participating homeowners, along with site preparation and professional oversight to ensure proper placement and long-term viability. The project is part of a broader effort to increase tree coverage and enhance environmental conditions throughout the region.
The American Hero Honor Ride group made a stop at the Lordsburg Elks Lodge during the first leg of their journey to honor a local veteran. The Combat Hero Bike Build (CHBB), which hosts the ride, presented 100-year-old Lordsburg resident and World War II veteran, as well as Purple Heart recipient, Rudy Chavez with a certificate of appreciation, in recognition of his service and sacrifice. The group also acknowledged and honored the Lordsburg Police Department and the Lordsburg Volunteer Fire Department for their continued support. Congratulations to Mr. Chavez and thank you for your service.
The Southwest Regional Museum of Art and Art Center recently launched its inaugural outreach program for elementary students in Animas delivering hands-on ceramics education. The program introduced students to clay techniques, pottery history, and cultural traditions, with support from Western New Mexico University’s Ceramics Department. The initiative reflects the museum’s commitment to expanding art education across southwest New Mexico. The museum is also currently raising capital to purchase the old Silver City Post Office on Broadway as its future permanent location while continuing outreach efforts throughout the region.
Last in our news:
The U.S. Forest Service announced it will distribute $248 million in Secure Rural Schools payments, providing essential funding to states and counties with National Forest System lands. These funds support public education, road maintenance, wildfire preparedness, and other critical services in rural communities. The payments also enhance local wildfire readiness by supporting Firewise Communities programs, reimbursing emergency response efforts on national forests, and advancing Community Wildfire Protection Plans to improve safety and coordination with federal wildfire response efforts.
