Archuleta Ranch

This generationally-owned hunting and cattle ranch is being listed for the first time in over 75 years! Archuleta Ranch is situated near the ranching community of Des Moines, NM. This 696-acre expanse of deeded land boasts an additional 1,400 acres of contiguous state-leased land currently utilized for cattle grazing. The ranch abuts over 14,000 acres of state land which encompasses the entirety of the Sierra Grande Volcano. Considered the largest extinct volcano in northeastern New Mexico, with an 8-mile diameter and towering over 2,000 ft above the surrounding plains, the timbered hillsides offer a flourishing habitat for elk, deer, pronghorn, bear, and other small game and nongame species. This remarkable property invites you to embrace the majesty of the land and indulge in a truly unforgettable experience.

Improvements

Improvements include a modest 3 bedroom 1 bathroom ranch style home and various outbuildings currently used for livestock handling and equipment storage. Multiple improvements to the water system have been made throughout the years to increase grazing productivity and irrigation throughout the ranch. Multiple wells are located throughout the ranch, including one solar well that feeds a 10k gallon tank and provides gravity flow to several tanks throughout the property for livestock and wildlife. The ranch also has newer fencing dividing the ranch into three separate pastures.

Location

The ranch is located directly southwest of the town of Des Moines, NM. Situated at the base of Sierra Grande with unobstructed access to over 14,000 acres of state-owned land.

Locale

Des Moines, New Mexico, is a small rural ranching community located in Union County, in the northeastern part of the state. This part of New Mexico is known for its wide open spaces, dramatic landscape and vistas of high plains, mesas, and prominent local landmarks including the extinct Sierra Grande Volcano and Capulin Volcano. Due to the low levels of light pollution, the area is internationally known to astronomers and stargazers to have one of the darkest night skies in the entire country making it a popular destination for viewing constellations. North eastern New Mexico has a rich history that reflects the spirit of the American Southwest.

History

With a long history of human habitation dating back thousands of years, the region was once inhabited by various tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Ute Peoples. The town owes its name to early French trappers who, in the late 19th century, likened the area’s natural beauty to Des Moines, Iowa. The area is well renowned for ranching and agriculture and continues to be known for its wide-open spaces, picturesque landscapes, and as a gateway to outdoor recreational activities.

Climate

• Summer High: the July high is around 80 degrees
• Winter: The average winter temperature is around 32 degrees
• Rain: Averages around 20 inches of rain a year
• Snow: Averages 57 inches of snow a year
• On average, there are 265 sunny days per year in Des Moines.

Hunting

Located in hunting Unit 56, the area is well known for healthy populations of quality elk, pronghorn, and mule deer along with bears and occasional mountain lion. The unit offers varied terrain including forests and meadows, making it an excellent location for both archery and rifle hunting. The area is known for responsible game management, which ensures sustainable hunting.

Ranch Operations

The current owner has leased the grazing out to a neighbor for the past several years and reports they generally carry between 50 – 100 pairs depending on precipitation and range conditions. The ranch is perimeter fenced and has newer interior fencing that divides the ranch into 3 pastures.

Water Rights

Any owned will convey at the time of sale

Mineral Rights

Any owned will convey at the time of sale

Leases

The current grazing lease in place is set to expire in 2024. Can be renewed if desired.

Taxes

Estimated taxes of $477.21.