Some New Mexico farms apply for pilot project to save water
Susan Montoya Bryan
View Comments
ALBUQUERQUE - More than two dozen farms in southern New Mexico have applied for a program that will pay them not to plant their fields as water managers look for new ways to stretch resources in the drought-stricken state.
It s the first phase of a multiyear pilot project being managed by the Office of the State Engineer. State Engineer John D Antonio has described the program as essential for ensuring the aquifers in the lower Rio Grande remain at sustainable levels in the future.
The Legislature approved funding for the effort last year and the state began accepting applications from farmers in the fall. The Interstate Stream Commission is now processing 27 contracts totaling more than $900,000 and covering just over 2 square miles of farmland.