What is Open Space?

Albuquerque Major Public Open Space is land set aside within an urban setting in order to protect, maintain and manage significant natural landscapes and cultural resources, while offering opportunities for public enjoyment through outdoor education and low-impact recreation.

Managed by the City of Albuquerque Open Space Division, these lands are a diverse mix of natural and cultural features located in the East Mountains, Sandia Foothills, the Rio Grande bosque, adjacent farmland, and the West Mesa, including the volcanoes and lava escarpment with ancient petroglyphs.

There are a plentiful and significant amount of benefits of having open space in Albuquerque. Open spaces preserve natural landscapes and habitats,, protect water quality, provide scenic corridors, offer low-impact recreational opportunities, sustain local character, enhance sound economic growth, connect people with nature, and provide a legacy for future generations. 

Open spaces matter, and the Open Space Alliance is committed to doing our part to support the work that the City of Albuquerque is doing to protect and enhance all of our beautiful open spaces in the Albuquerque area.