ABQ BioPark Reopens Enhanced Heritage Farm on Earth Day

The ABQ BioPark’s cherished Heritage Farm reopened today to the public. Following a major $14 million renovation that focused on sustainability, conservation, animal well-being, and community engagement, the BioPark is excited for guests to experience the Farm like never before.

Funded by the 1/8-cent gross receipts tax approved by Albuquerque voters, Heritage Farm closed in Spring 2023 to undergo extensive enhancements, transforming it into a more purposeful, low-maintenance, and environmentally conscious experience for guests and animals alike.

“Heritage Farm is where Albuquerque’s roots come to life,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This renovation connects families with our agricultural history in a hands-on way, giving everyone the chance to experience farming, nature, and the food we love.”

Among the most striking changes are the expanded crop gardens, which are now five times larger. The gardens feature leafy greens like kale, collard greens, lettuce, and spinach, along with new perennial beds for crops such as asparagus, artichokes, raspberries, and golden currants.

A newly added fairy garden showcases medicinal plants like yarrow and lemongrass surrounded by pollinator-friendly flowers. Nearby, a new container garden demonstrates how guests can grow produce at home—no matter the size of their space. Many of the crops grown at the Heritage Farm also serve a practical purpose by supplementing meals for animals throughout the BioPark.

The improvements also include several 3,000-gallon rainwater collection tanks to assist with supplemental watering, reinforcing the BioPark’s commitment to sustainability.

“This renovation brings a modern and meaningful approach to what a working farm can be while maintaining the integrity and historical legacy of traditional heritage farming in New Mexico,” said BioPark Associate Director Matthew Peterson. “It’s a space that connects people to food, nature, and animals in a hands-on, inspiring way.”

The Farm is home to more animal residents as well. New species include Highland cattle, miniature donkeys, Nigerian dwarf goats, and a flock of chickens with four additional breeds that are new to the Heritage Farm. Longtime favorites such as Bugz the painted horse, Navajo-Churro sheep, and turkeys remain part of the farm family. All animals benefit from upgraded care facilities with expanded pastures and enhanced enrichment features designed to support their wellbeing.

To improve the guest experience, the renovation includes enhancements to the historic cider barn, the addition of an outdoor education space for children, a new nature engagement area, paved sidewalks, and additional parking spaces for easier access.

For more information, visit www.cabq.gov/biopark.

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