Placitas residents can reduce wildfire risk around their homes at a free community chipper day hosted by the Coronado Soil and Water Conservation District on Saturday, May 30.
The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the San Antonio de las Huertas Land Grant property at 1 Camino de la Buena Vista, just off State Highway 165 in Placitas. The chipper accepts branches up to six inches in diameter and bundles of dead and dried limbs, including juniper. Residents may make multiple drop-offs throughout the morning.
Wood chips from the event are free to take and can be used for erosion control, moisture retention, and soil health — spread no deeper than three inches for best results. Leftover chips will remain available on-site through May 30. The district suggests a $10 voluntary donation per pickup truck load.
Tips for drop-off: bundle branches pointing the same direction to speed up chipping, and bring dry material only — green, moist leaves can clog the machine.
Placitas Chipper Day
When: Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Where: 1 Camino de la Buena Vista, Placitas (first lot on right off State Hwy 165, below Overlook)
Suggested donation: $10/truck load
Wood chips: free