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Conservation Seedling Program

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Program Overview and Participation Requirements

The Forestry Division provides low‑cost seedlings for planting projects that support forest and watershed health in New Mexico. Since the program’s establishment in the 1960s, it has supplied millions of seedlings for conservation plantings.

Seedlings purchased through the program must be used for conservation plantings in New Mexico. Allowable uses include ecological restoration, wind protection, erosion control, wood products, tree farms, and planting or up-potting for urban or community forestry needs.

Prior to placing an order, please review Ordering Requirements.

Seedling Selection and Ordering

We offer more than 60 species grown in 10‑cubic‑inch containers. Minimum order sizes are 49 seedlings per species (49 seedlings = one lot) for fall distribution and 294 seedlings (six lots) for spring distribution.

Because statewide demand for seedlings far exceeds supply, we recommend submitting requests one to two years prior to planting using the Seedling Request Form. Advance seedling requests help the Forestry Division procure the required species and quantities in time to support successful conservation work.

We also maintain a smaller same-year ordering inventory, though pricing may be higher to reflect added costs associated with this service. Same‑year ordering runs from the first Monday in July through mid‑October for fall distribution and is no longer available for spring pickup.

Please note that we do not anticipate offering seedlings for Spring 2027 distribution. We encourage you to place any needed orders during our Fall 2026 distribution.

Click Here to Order Conservation Seedlings - Ordering for Fall 26 distribution begins July 6, 2026

Use this link to access the Forestry Division Conservation Seedling Program’s online ordering platform. Ordering for fall distribution will begin on July 6th, 2026. 

NEW: Click Here to Submit a Seedling Request - Secure your seedlings for Fall 27 or Spring 28 delivery now.

NEW: The Forestry Division’s Conservation Seedling Program is now accepting Order Requests for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 distribution. Submitting a request early helps us plan ahead and ensures we can work toward providing the species and quantities needed for your conservation plantings. You can submit your order request using the linked form.

Do you need Seedlings for Reforestation?

Our Seedlings for Reforestation Program provides a pathway for land owners and stewards to work toward recovery and reforestation. If you own or steward forested land in New Mexico that has been impacted by wildfire, you’re eligible to enroll in our pilot program! Come as you are — no prior forestry experience or education is required.

Through the program, you may:

  • Attend educational workshops and learn to assess fire severity, vegetation changes, and identify the best places to plant on your property.
  • Build your own planting plan using practices informed by New Mexico’s leading reforestation experts.
  • Get ongoing technical support from Forestry Division staff and partners.
  • Order low‑cost seedlings adapted to your landscape.

Use the form linked here and select the Seedlings for Reforestation option to learn more.

Do you need Seedlings for Reforestation?

We offer technical assistance and seed-source matching for post-fire reforestation through Seedlings for Restoration. Species in high demand for post-fire soil stabilization and reforestation may have limited availability through our standard ordering platform. Species to consider for reforestation include the following, depending on soil type, site elevation and slope aspect:

Landowners should be aware that without careful planning and site preparation, reforestation efforts in New Mexico may have poor outcomes. For science‑based guidance on assessing your site, preparing for planting, and improving long‑term success, please consult with your local District office and refer to the Reforestation Guide for New Mexico Landowners. 

Please visit our Reforestation webpage for more information.