Bernalillo County and FUSE are protecting farmland and expanding land access so local growers can sustain a vibrant, resilient agricultural economy.
Farming has long shaped the county’s culture and livelihoods, but development pressure and complex program requirements can make land stewardship difficult for families and new growers. Seniors and Spanish-speaking residents in particular face information gaps that limit participation in preservation and agricultural programs. The County is strengthening a community-centered approach that honors traditions, protects open space, and ensures working lands remain in production.
In partnership with FUSE, the County Assessor’s Office will expand bilingual outreach, clarify processes, and build connections between landowners and aspiring farmers. The FUSE Executive Fellow will coordinate with community organizations to develop accessible materials, support digital literacy, and increase use of programs that preserve land for agriculture. This effort will safeguard the county’s agricultural heritage, create pathways for intergenerational stewardship, and support a local food system that benefits residents today and in the future.