My Shot of the Day – Whitman Vega, Valle Vidal Carson National Forest, New Mexico, USA

Whitman Vega is a gigantic savanah grassland at the heart of northern New Mexico’s Valle Vidal. A lush mountain basin located deep in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Valle was donated to the American People in 1982, the Valle Vidal is managed by the Carson National Forest primarily for it’s wildlife, as well as it’s outstanding scenic and recreational opportunities.

The Valle Vidal Carson National Forest is a veritable Rocky Mountain paradise, with abundant populations of Rocky Mountain wildlife, including mule deer, black bear, mountain lion, bald eagles, and native Rio Grande cutthroat trout. In addition, the vast alpine meadows of the Valle Vidal provide critical habitat for the largest herd of elk in New Mexico.

The Valle Vidal is a special place to New Mexicans and people from around the world, who come to marvel at its alpine majesty, enjoy outdoor recreation and sporting opportunities, and to view the Valle’s prized elk herd. 3,000 Boy Scouts from adjacent Philmont Scout Ranch participate in a High Adventure program in the Valle Vidal each year.

The Valle Vidal Carson National Forest comprises the headwaters of numerous streams and tributaries of both the Rio Grande and Canadian Rivers. Both McCrystal Creek and North Ponil Creek have been recently recommended for Wild and Scenic Rivers protection. As a source of fresh water, wildlife, firewood, and grazing lands, the Valle Vidal serves as an important resource for the ranching and agricultural communities of northern New Mexico.

The Valle Vidal is also one of my favorite places in the world. You will be seeing more pictures of the Valle Vidal in the coming weeks.