SENATE MEMORIAL 89

51st legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2013

INTRODUCED BY

Joseph Cervantes

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THE STATE ENGINEER AND THE CHAIR OF THE INTERSTATE STREAM COMMISSION TO ENGAGE WITH STAKEHOLDERS TO EXPLORE POTENTIAL MEASURES TO ADDRESS WATER SHORTAGES AND INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS.

     WHEREAS, most available data indicate that the state is in a drought of historic proportions; and

     WHEREAS, urban growth during the past few decades and the historic agricultural economy have created tensions among traditional water users; and

     WHEREAS, water utilities have instituted conservation measures, including rate structures to foster water use efficiency and water infrastructure improvements; and

     WHEREAS, the cost of water rights has risen dramatically, even as ownership and control of water resources continue to be sources of conflict among stakeholders and communities of interest; and

     WHEREAS, legal expenses and policy disputes escalate as the continued availability of water supplies and delivery systems becomes more doubtful;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the state engineer and the chair of the interstate stream commission be requested to engage with stakeholders to explore potential measures to address water shortages and infrastructure needs; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that stakeholders include representatives of agricultural, business and environmental interests; municipalities; and rural, urban, senior and junior water rights owners and users; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the state engineer, the chair of the interstate stream commission, the water dialogue, regional water planning groups and regional water assemblies.

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