Habitat Restoration and Ciénaga Conservation on the Pitchfork Ranch
Since 2004, A.T. & Lucinda Cole, founders of the Pitchfork Ranch in New Mexico, have been working to restore the ciénaga habitat that had been degraded by overgrazing. They constructed over 200 in-channel and 800 drainage grade-control structures, implemented sustainable gazing, replanted tree and vegetation, and reintroduced endangered wildlife species.
Approach
This project implemented a comprehensive nontidal wetland restoration restoration approach, combining scientific research with community engagement and traditional ecological knowledge.
Implementation Steps
- Baseline assessment and site selection
- Stakeholder consultation and community engagement
- Design and planning phase with technical experts
- Implementation with local workforce training
- Monitoring and adaptive management
Timeline
The project was implemented over a 2-year period, with ongoing monitoring and maintenance continuing beyond the initial implementation phase.
Environmental Benefits
- Significant increase in native species populations
- Improved water quality and regulation
- Enhanced carbon sequestration capacity
- Reduced soil erosion and improved soil health
Social & Economic Benefits
- Created local employment opportunities
- Improved community resilience to climate impacts
- Enhanced ecosystem services valued at $1M annually
- Strengthened traditional knowledge and practices
✓ What Worked Well
- Early and continuous community engagement ensured local buy-in
- Adaptive management approach allowed for course corrections
- Integration of traditional and scientific knowledge enhanced outcomes
- Multi-stakeholder partnerships provided diverse expertise and resources
⚠ Challenges Encountered
- Initial funding delays affected project timeline
- Extreme weather events required adaptive strategies
- Coordination across multiple agencies was time-intensive
- Some species recovery took longer than initially projected
→ Recommendations for Replication
- Invest adequate time in baseline assessments and planning
- Build strong local partnerships from the project outset
- Ensure long-term funding commitments for monitoring
- Document and share learnings throughout implementation
- Plan for climate adaptation from the beginning
Help spread knowledge about nature-based solutions
Copyright Notice
© 2026 Original Authors. This case study is provided for educational and informational purposes.
Contact Information
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Citation
When citing this case study, please reference: Original Authors (2026).Habitat Restoration and Ciénaga Conservation on the Pitchfork Ranch. Source: https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/nature-based-solutions-roadmap/case-study-search
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