WHY WE ARE SPEAKING OUT

State Agencies have acknowledged that New Mexico is facing:

• Severe drought and record-low reservoir levels

• Low deliveries to irrigators and extensive river drying

• Extremely low water levels at Elephant Butte

• Increasing groundwater dependence

• -25% less water in New Mexico streams over the next 50 years

 Our communities, farms, wells, and economies are already feeling the impact

WHO WE ARE

Acequia commissioners, farmers, students, elders, educators, neighborhood associations, faith leaders, organizations, and residents of the Middle Rio Grande united to defend our water, our communities, and our rights.

WHAT WE REQUEST

Science-based water administration transparency and respect for law and public welfare. We call for a temporary moratorium on additional Middle Rio Grande water transfers pending a full cumulative-impact review.

Before approving any additional transfers, the state should ensure applicants demonstrate:

• No impairment to existing rights or the public welfare

• No harm to groundwater recharge or shallow aquifers

• No reduction in return flows or compact compliance

• Protection for domestic wells, agriculture, wildlife, and cultural resources

• Full transparency, public note, and meaningful community input

• Consistency with New Mexico law and the principles of long-term stewardship