SANTA FE – New building, same address!

Surrounded by red rock canyons and cottonwoods, the new Jemez Ranger Station is located at 051 Woodsy Lane, the same scenic spot off NM Highway 4 in Jemez Springs. The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) celebrated the Jemez District’s new facilities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Friday, Nov. 4.

The old facility was built in 1966 south of Soda Dam. By 2007, it was obsolete and showing its age. Discussions to replace or relocate it began, and the final decision was to rebuild at the Forest Service-owned site which is now occupied by a modern two-story office building, a warehouse, and a fire station large enough to house the district’s fire engines, equipment and crew.

As finishing touches are completed and employees settle into the new building, the district is planning an open house to welcome members of the public to the modern space. For the immediate term, the Jemez office is selling fuelwood and Christmas tree permits over the phone at 575-829-3535 by credit card and mailing them to customers, according to the Forest Service.

When the ranger station opens its doors to the public, office hours will be Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

People who plan to visit any part of the Santa Fe National Forest over the holidays, know before you go and “be outdoor safe.” Check the weather forecast and be prepared for winter conditions.

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