MRGCD supports the State’s efforts to better understand and address human-driven water depletions in the Middle Rio Grande Valley. This includes the State’s pending metering order and a future evaluation of the cumulative effects of domestic wells. These are important steps toward improved water management and accountability. However, the bosque remains the largest source of water depletion upstream of Elephant Butte Reservoir, yet there is currently no recurring maintenance program or established State targets for managing those depletions.
Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District CEO/Chief Engineer Jason Casuga in an Aug. 19, 2026 letter to New Mexico State Engineer Elizabeth Anderson and Interstate Stream Commission Director Hannah Riseley-White.