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"After a project is over, the area goes back to is original state," reassures Lucero. "The rain and wi) No. 4375 - "Safety Drop, Munition Test Procedures". The nd erase the tracks, nature heals it through its own means." The Zias have sought to balance traditional Pueblo life with the challenges of making a living and co-existing with what Pino calls the "dominant society." Religious activities and other ceremonies that make up the core of traditional life always take priority. This is the reason why filming is never allowed in the village, since life brings unexpected events calling for a collective tribal participation that is often closed to non-Zia residents. Areas outside the village, however, can be filmed without any scheduling conflicts. "We look for a win-win situation," says Pino. "When there is a mutual respect for each other's needs, it usually works out." Lucero and Pino walk to the other side of the shepherd's hut and survey the lunar landscape before them. "The land we reside on is the location that was chosen by our ancestors," Lucero says softly. "The land was good to our ancestors and continues to be good to us. We want to leave t

he land so that it will provide for the future." There's little doubt the spiritual beauty of Zia Pueblo will leave its imprint on many a filmmaker's soul for years to come. Mikelle "Kelly" Cosandaey is the deputy director of the New Mexico Film Office, where she has managed the locations team for the past 11 years. She has directed and produced award-winning documentaries and has written s