Bernalillo County has announced that its commissioners have approved a proposal aimed at transforming the Acequia Madre headwaters into a cultural and historic open space. The significant development project is situated on the west side of the Rio Grande, just north of Central.
The Atrisco Acequia Madre, an ancient irrigation system, has been integral to Albuquerque's community for centuries. The recently approved Acequia Madre Master Plan outlines three phases: cleanup, infrastructure development, and site enhancement. The projected costs for these phases are $273,000, $325,000, and $327,000 respectively. This collaborative effort involving various entities aims to transform the site into a more accessible and enriched space. Features such as water harvesting facilities, landscaping, interpretive signage, art installations and lighting will be incorporated according to a press release by Bernalillo County.
County Commission Chair Barbara Baca says of the project: "The Acequia Madre is such a unique celebration of ‘place,’ a real connection between the community, the culture, and the past," according to another press release by Bernalillo County. She further adds that "This plan not only provides a protected outdoor space to help teach our children about the stewardship of these vital landscapes and the importance of water to our community but will also help serve as a catalyst for economic development going up West Central."
Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, The Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD) offers essential services in irrigation, river flood control and water conservation. These services support farmers in the Middle Agricultural Region of New Mexico state. With approximately 200 skilled employees across various fields including business, farming, irrigation, geology, hydrology and planning; MRGCD ensures sustainability of the Middle Rio Grande basin as an agricultural community. In addition to its primary services it also offers recreational activities inviting everyone to contribute towards "Keeping the Valley Green," according to information provided on the MRGCD's About webpage.
