New Mexico Wild Names Ernie Atencio as 2024 Esther García Conservation Champion Award Recipient

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 6, 2024

Contact: Mark Allison, Executive Director, mark@nmwild.org, 505-239-0906

SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico Wild has selected Ernie Atencio of Taos, Southwest Regional Director for the National Parks Conservation Association, as the 2024 recipient of the Esther García Conservation Champion Award. The award honors conservation leaders who embody the spirit of justice, diplomacy, wisdom, and passion demonstrated by Esther García, the first female mayor of Questa, former New Mexico Wild board member, and a vital force behind the creation of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.

Atencio’s deep connection to Northern New Mexico conservation spans decades. His work includes leadership roles with Amigos Bravos, the Taos Land Trust, and nine years of service on New Mexico Wild’s board of directors. His approach to conservation emphasizes community engagement and cultural understanding, reflecting the values that García championed throughout her career.

“Ernie exemplifies the bridge-building and inclusive approach to conservation that Esther García stood for,” said Mark Allison, Executive Director of New Mexico Wild. “His dedication to protecting New Mexico’s lands while honoring local communities and traditions makes him an ideal recipient of this award.”

The Esther García Conservation Champion Award was established following García’s passing in 2020 to recognize conservation leaders in New Mexico who continue her legacy of bringing together diverse stakeholders, including acequia parciantes, land grant heirs, pueblos, local governments, and conservation groups.

“This award recognizes a lifetime of service to New Mexico’s natural and cultural heritage. Like Esther, through respectful listening, bringing people together and a steadfast moral authority, Ernie helped change minds and move us forward,” said Allison. “Ernie began his career at a time when critical voices were not being heard in conservation. His thoughtfulness, decency, and passion has helped create a path for a broader and stronger community, where more voices can be heard.”

Ernie was presented with a framed picture of Chaco Canyon by the prize-winning Santa Fe photographer Irene Owsley at New Mexico Wild’s annual meeting and holiday party on December 6, with hundreds of supporters in attendance. Last year’s recipient of the award was John Olivas of Mora.

New Mexico Wild is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, restoring, and fostering the enjoyment of New Mexico’s Wilderness areas and public lands. With thousands of members across the state, we work alongside local communities, tribal nations, and public agencies to ensure our wild heritage endures. Protecting Wilderness, wildlife and water is the foundation of our work. For more information, visit www.nmwild.org.