The Galisteo Basin Preserve is a stewardship-oriented, conservation-development initiative located 13 miles south of Santa Fe, in the central Galisteo Basin, an area of ecologically significant land and water resources (formerly the Thornton Ranch).  The project is designed to conserve and restore this 13,552-acre area of exceptional landscape, as well as promote the thoughtful development of this high desert area.  Of the total land encompassed in the Preserve, only 3% will be developed with the remainder to include 50 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails.

What we mean by “conservation development”

In addition to supporting the land conservation and stewardship-community goals of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, all conservation properties within the Preserve include carefully sited home sites, distinct building areas, green design and construction guidelines, and community amenities that connect residents with the land and each other.

Roads, utilities, and services/amenities are planned in accordance with the highest standards of conservation development, and all building areas are intended to limit the impact of new construction on the region’s many resources while maximizing views and privacy for property owners.

Carefully defined covenants and restrictions for each neighborhood or property guide home building that exemplifies the energy efficiency and water-conservation values of green development. Many of the parcels are overlaid with conservation easements.