Bernalillo County and FUSE are protecting farmland and expanding access to land, enabling local growers to 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 their 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. FUSE Executive Fellow Jody Bickel will coordinate with community organizations to develop accessible materials, support digital literacy, and increase the 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.
