The Calabacillas Arroyo Channel Stabilization Project
The Calabacillas Arroyo Channel Stabilization Project was fully funded and constructed by the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority (AMAFCA) and completed in 1998. The purpose of this project was to stabilize the arroyo and protect the surrounding neighborhoods. It was completed within the existing 200 ft right of way. Access to trails and open space were also provided. This project won several awards, which can be found on the sign in the parking area.
Visitors are welcome here but please remember in times of pending rainfall “DITCHES ARE DEADLY.” You are invited to walk the arroyo upstream on both the north and south sides west towards Coors Boulevard, weather permitting. Along the way you will discover artificial fossils cast into the channel walls to illustrate the geologic and historic past of New Mexico.
Distinct “eras” are depicted in the side of the arroyo, each with a different color. Occasionally “faults” offset the eras.
The artificial fossils embedded into the rock layers depict a wide array of historical information. The fossils were constructed through the voluntary aid of approximately 300 individuals, including staff of the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, the Albuquerque Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, as well as several elementary school classes including Comanche, Inez, Sierra Vista, Navajo, Zia, Lew Wallace, and Eugene Field.
To learn more about the artwork and artist, Michael Wallace, click here.
Calabacillas Arroyo Scavenger Hunt
Directions: Heading North on Coors Blvd NW (just North of Irving Blvd.), take a right on Westside Blvd NW. The entrance to the Calabacillas Arroyo access is on the left, where the road intersects with Riverfront Dr. Follow the access road to the right (heading East) to the parking area, where you will find the informational sign.
You are invited to walk the arroyo upstream on both the north and south sides west towards Coors Boulevard, weather permitting. Along the way you will discover artificial fossils cast into the channel walls to illustrate the geologic and historic past of New Mexico.
Have fun but be careful! Please remember in times of pending rainfall “DITCHES ARE DEADLY”, stay out.