The Questa Economic Development Fund (QEDF) invites area residents and interested parties to a public meeting on Wednesday, June 24, at 5:30 p.m. in the Village of Questa Council Chambers. The meeting will feature presentations on proposed trail development in Largo Canyon and new rock-climbing routes in Red River Canyon. Dinner will be provided.

After a year of on-site hiking, climbing, research, and mapping, the Enchanted Circle Trails Association (ECTA) is ready to present its proposal for expanding recreation opportunities in the area. Plans include a network of non-motorized, multi-use trails designed for hikers, runners, equestrians, mountain bikers, and casual walkers of all ability levels. A separate trail system would accommodate ATVs and other motorized recreation.

As part of the long-term vision for revitalizing Questa’s economy, the QEDF’s Recreation Opportunity Report recommended developing new recreation options in this area. Increased outdoor recreation will bring more patrons to our area, more traffic to our businesses, and will also encourage new recreation-oriented entrepreneurial enterprises. Plus, industries looking to start businesses in new communities often cite outdoor recreation as a key factor in their decision.

QEDF received a Trails Plus Grant from the New Mexico Economic Development Department to explore the feasibility of these recreation projects. Earlier in the process, QEDF and ECTA hosted several public meetings and gathered input from residents and outdoor enthusiasts before beginning field work and planning.

Organizers are now seeking additional community feedback to help refine the proposal and guide future planning for the trails and climbing systems. This is a long-term process and a beneficial one that explores our outdoor economy’s untapped potential.

For more information about the projects or the public meeting, contact QEDF Director Lynn Skall at lynn@questaedf.com or call (575) 586-2149.