Walking trails planned at Five Mile Park

Several walking trails are being planned at Five Mile Park west of Tucumcari, with a kickoff for them possibly by June.

Brenda Bishop, coordinator of the Quay County Health Council, said during the council’s videoconference meeting Thursday the trails are part of a joint effort with the Friends of Five Mile Park group.

Bishop said walking routes of a half-mile, three-fourths of a mile and 1.5 miles are tentatively planned at the park and should be finalized soon.

The park also is home of the 18-hole Robert Lumpkin Memorial Disc Golf Course, and long-term plans also might include a community gathering area at the long-defunct swimming pool, children’s adventure area and trails for ATVs or motorcycles.

In other business:

• The council learned the local Altrusa International chapter is planning an eight-week program of hiding painted rocks around town that can be turned in for prizes.

• The council plans a mental-health post each Thursday on social media in an effort to address suicide issues in the region. Zoom videoconferences of physical activity, including yoga, also were suggested for children and families.

• Council members discussed ways to draw participants in the New Mexico Community Survey that measures health issues in each county. This year’s survey likely will be done electronically because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• The council is requesting a $20,000 grant from Presbyterian Health to help continue its mission.