Skip navigation.
New Mexico State University

Agriculture & Horticulture

The Bernalillo County Extension Agriculture Program is dedicated to bringing agricultural information to Bernalillo County farmers, ranchers and related industries.

Extension Agriculture Sponsored Programs

Field Crops & Gardening

  • Basic Soils: How to test, determine different types of soils, some nutritional (fertilization) requirements of different crops, and how to interpret a soil test. How to observe the soil to determine irrigation needs.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Pesticide Safety: Learn about options of pest / weed control to include pesticide safety if that option is recommended and the interaction of different pesticides and movement to the target pest. The different soil types, chemical qualities and persistence in the soils are also discussed. Understanding the different chemicals used is important to prevent contamination of groundwater. Training is offered annually for Licensed Pesticide Applicators to provide NMDA required Continuing Educational Requirements.
  • Growers Markets: Discussion of the Albuquerque Area growers markets and how to prepare produce to sell and market. Presentation of produce is very much a part of marketing produce. Profit can be made if the crops and orchards are grown right and displayed in an attractive manner.
  • Water Conservation and Irrigation Practices:Help planning for irrigation and water usage. Help is available in planning crops and networking with other agencies to develop conservation plans. Water avalibility, soil type, and land preparation are key to planning before planting.
  • Specialty Crops: Consultation and classes can be offered concerning the newest varieties of crops and non-traditional crops which may be very profitable. Many crops are labor intensive and require some up front investments, but the enterprises could be profitable.

Livestock Production

  • Livestock Production: A wealth of information is available about beef, sheep, swine, goat, horse and other livestock production and programs can be arranged or scheduled.
  • Forage and Pasture Management: Information emphasizes how to produce and grow irrigated pasture or manage range lands. Many lands are sub-divided into parcels too small to support livestock or horses even though the zoning allows raising of these animals. Management is essential to preserve the lands and plants and preventing erosion due to overgrazing. Consultation or classes can help prevent misuse of lands.
  • Alfalfa Production: There are about 500 small farms in Bernalillo County, 77% being less than 49 acres. Alfalfa production is usually custom harvested and many people do not know how to maintain a quality field, nor have the equipment to harvest and bale properly. This crop, even though fairly profitable may not be a good choice for many small scale farmers.