The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer and Interstate Stream Commission is seeking legislative approval for a $1 million increase in its operating budget for Fiscal Year 2027, along with $131 million in special appropriations. The agency plans to present this proposal to the Legislative Finance Committee on November 20 at 1 p.m. in Room 307 of the State Capitol.
The proposed budget aims to expand water-related programs, enhance compliance with interstate water compacts, support Indian Water Rights settlements, and ensure the long-term sustainability of acequia and Rio Grande trust funds. These measures are intended to address projections that water supplies could decrease by 25 percent over the next fifty years due to climate change.
Key priorities in the FY27 request include expanding water planning, education, and outreach through initiatives like the Water Security Planning Act and the 50-Year Water Action Plan. Additionally, implementing Indian Water Rights Settlements is expected to unlock significant federal infrastructure funding. The budget also focuses on strengthening compliance with the Rio Grande Compact to protect agricultural and municipal water supplies and securing irrigation works for future sustainability.
State Engineer Elizabeth Anderson emphasized the importance of this budget request: "This budget request reflects the urgency of New Mexico’s water challenges. From climate change impacts to interstate compact obligations, we must invest to secure our water future."
The proposal represents a crucial opportunity for lawmakers to equip water managers with necessary tools, helping communities prepare for climate change impacts and safeguarding New Mexico's vital water resources for future generations.
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