The mission of Chaco Culture Conservancy is to inspire people to support, connect with, and learn about Aztec Ruins National Monument and Chaco Culture National Historical Park through philanthropy and volunteer activities – thus ensuring the preservation of the Chacoan architectural landscapes, natural resources, and cultural heritage for present and future generations.
The Chaco Culture Conservancy supports park projects and programs that fall under four broad areas: Education & Interpretation; Special Events, and Community Outreach; Volunteerism, including Site Stewardship, Trail Maintenance, and Campground Hosting; and Research & Preservation of Natural and Cultural Resources, Rock Art, and Archaeology.
The Conservancy also supports the Chaco Culture National Historic Park’s Dark Sky resources by funding an observatory, reduction of light pollution, and visitor programs.
Education: Chaco Rock Art is known the world over and has been the subject of much research. The Conservancy supports the respectful viewing and study of this precious cultural resource.
Interpretation: The Conservancy has supported the two Parks’ tribal consultation meetings by funding the costs for printing, travel reimbursements, and catering. These events promote the circulation of ideas, information, and research from Chaco and Aztec Ruins while ensuring important tribal input for the Parks.
Research: Wildlife cameras are essential for managing the elk and other wildlife, like bobcats, bears, and wolves, in the parks. The Conservancy has funded the purchase of several infrared cameras to set up near springs, seeps, washes, and on Chacra Mesa where elk and other animals are found, to monitor population size, movement, and uses of the park resources.
Volunteers: The Conservancy helps cover the travel, lodging, and meals costs for our volunteers who are essential to the research and interpretation goals of the Parks.
The Dark Skies Initiative: Chaco is the fourth National Park to achieve the Dark Sky designation from the International Dark-Sky Association! The Park’s telescopes are used for public viewing during the night sky programs. The Conservancy provided funds to purchase parts and materials for a 17.5” reflecting telescope set up on the observing field behind the Chaco Visitor Center. The Conservancy also supported the retrofitting of outdoor lights on the Chaco Visitor Center to make them “night-sky friendly” and comply with standards set by the Dark Sky Park program.
To volunteer
You can learn more about Volunteering at Chaco NHP or Aztec NM on their volunteer website.