The February 1 program of Southwestern New Mexico Audubon Society will feature John Moeny from the New Mexico Environment Department. The title of his presentation is "Springs ecosystems in southwest NM - assessing conditions and restoration opportunities." The program begins at 7 p.m. in room 219 of Harlan Hall on the WNMU campus at 12th and Alabama.
Springs are broadly defined as locations where the earth's ground water emerges at the surface. They can be tiny seeps on a sandstone wall that provide water for a single plant or passing bird, or massive, explosive outflows like the geysers of Yellowstone. In New Mexico they are typically diminutive features of the landscape, but their small size belies their heavyweight importance. It has been estimated that springs nationwide support 20% of our country's endangered species. This talk will delve into the different types of springs that can be found around the state - their characteristics, threats they face, and the opportunities for their management and restoration.
John Moeny is an Environmental Scientist for the New Mexico Environment Department and works out of the Silver City field office on surface water and wetland protection and restoration. With degrees in botany and rangeland restoration, he has worked in land management and natural resource science for 20 years, plying his trade from Montana to Mexico. Ten years ago he and his wife, Megan Ruehmann, settled in Silver City where they can be found chasing a rare bird or endemic plant, backpacking or planning the next adventure.
Light refreshments will follow the meeting. All are welcome to attend. For further information email
