Mapping Taos’ Cultural Assets to Protect the Past and Guide the Future

The landmarks are everywhere. Historic Taos Plaza. San Francisco de Asís Mission Church. La Hacienda de los Martinez. But for Taos County locals, there are many other community treasures, or “cultural assets,” too—myriad people, places, customs, and landscapes that have shaped northern New Mexico for centuries. Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Taos County has experienced booming growth and development. Amid a continuing influx of people and an acute housing shortage, more is on the horizon, threatening the heritage that locals have cherished for generations. One Taos County staff member had a solution: launch a mapping initiative that would identify and collect information about the county’s cultural resources. To get the project up and running, she reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding helped Taos County put together an advisory group of passionate community members to guide the Cultural Treasures Project. With their input and that of other community members, Taos County is creating a comprehensive digital map that will inform local officials, steer development, and serve as a resource for the community. “It’s the community saying, ‘These are the things that are special to us. These are the things that have value. These are the things that are under threat,'” says Jessica Stern, Taos County’s economic development director. “‘And hey, local government, please be a partner with how we safeguard them and steward them.'” Watch the video below to learn more about how Taos County is charting a path toward sustainable development and community preservation.