Farmington parks and recreation recognized statewide; mayor and long‑time staff honored

Farmington’s parks and recreation programs received statewide recognition at the New Mexico Recreation and Park Association, City staff told the Farmington City Council. Natalie Spruill, parks and recreation staff, announced awards that highlighted design, arts programming and long‑term maintenance work that support the city’s downtown and riverfront revitalization.

"Mayor Nate Duckett has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to the advancement of parks and recreation in Farmington," Spruill said while presenting the elected‑official award to Duckett. Staff also accepted a park design award for the city’s gateway white water wave feature — a joint project with the North Farmington Ditch Company that Spruill said "improves river health, ensures irrigation functionality, restores fish passage, and creates a new recreational destination in the heart of Farmington." The city also received awards for the 'Art in the Heart' sculpture program and for parks and grounds maintenance; Spruill reported the parks division cares for roughly 1,800 acres, 58 parks and more than 12 miles of trails.

Volunteer and lifetime achievement awards were also presented. Diane Waters, president of the River Reach Foundation, received an outstanding volunteer service award and highlighted a partnership with the city dating back to 1986. Leslie Watson Mueller received the Lifetime Achievement Award for 24 years of service; Mueller said she was "very honored to receive this recognition." The council thanked staff and volunteers for their work and noted the awards showcase Farmington at the state level.