Escalante High School graduating students who received 2026 CPLA Conservation Scholarships are, Abryanna Baca, Sierra Salazar and Miguel Martinez pictured with Tina Martinez of the CPLA Board of Directors. Courtesy photo

CPLA NEWS RELEASE

Chama Peak Land Alliance (CPLA), is a diverse group of conservation-minded landowners committed to embracing and practicing responsible land, water and wildlife stewardship in southern Colorado and northern New Mexico, has selected three graduating Escalante High School students to receive the 2026 CPLA Conservation Scholarship.  Student applicants were asked to write an essay about their future plans along with their thoughts on conservation and their career plans. 

“These scholarships are important for us, our community, and for the next generation of conservationists,” says Caleb Stotts, CPLA Executive Director.  “The essays from our graduating seniors are always a breath of fresh air and one of the most enjoyable parts of our community work!”

Included below are short excerpts from the recipient’s essays: 

“I learned that biodiversity is important because every plant, animal, and water source plays a role in keeping nature balanced.  When one part is affected, it can impact everything else over time.  That made conservation feel more real to me, because it is not just about protecting land in general; it is about protecting the systems that support life in my community and beyond.”  Miguel Martinez

“Overall, my goal is to build a successful career while also being someone who makes a positive impact. By combining my passion for cosmetology with an awareness of conservation, I believe I can contribute to my community in a meaningful way and set an example for others.”  Abryanna Baca

“Water conservation also represents a larger responsibility to the future. The choices we make today will determine what resources are available for the generations that come after us. If we fail to do our part now, we risk losing not only water, but also the traditions and communities that depend on it, which is hard in our community that values traditions. This is why I see water conservation as both. a challenge and an opportunity, an opportunity to protect the environment, support communities, and build a more sustainable future.”  Sierra Salazar

CPLA and our scholarship partners wish all the graduating seniors the best of luck.  For more information on the CPLA scholarship and the recipients, and other CPLA programs, the website is www.chamapeak.org.