Irrigation in the Estancia Basin

Will there be adequate water to meet future needs? Many who live in the MRCOG region are concerned about the sustainability of water resources, particularly when considering issues such as population growth, declining water levels, degraded water quality, and the possibility of long-term drought. There is an increasing gap between water supply and demand in our region.

Preservation and protection of water resources requires a concerted effort in conservation and efficient use of water by all communities. MRCOG is committed to local and regional water planning to ensure strategic management of water resources in the Middle Rio Grande and Estancia Basins.

There are two state-designated Water Planning Regions within the MRCOG planning jurisdiction: the Middle Rio Grande and the Estancia Basin. Both water planning regions have completed plans which are being implemented as resources become available. The MRCOG Board of Directors has created the Water Resources Board as an advisory body on planning and management of regional water resources. The Water Resources Board meets quarterly and transmits reports and recommendations regarding water policies, planning, and management to the MRCOG Board of Directors.

Acequia (irrigation ditch) in Los Lunas

Water Planning Reports and Resources

• Middle Rio Grande Regional Water Plan 2000 - 2050
  •  Executive Summary 179.14 Kb
  •  General Summary 1000.13 Kb
  •  Rio Puerco and Jemez Summary 716.97 Kb
  • The report in its entirety is too large to provide online.  If you would like a CD version of the report, please contact Joe Quitana ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it )
• The Middle Rio Grande Water Assemblyis a non-profit organization that provides public information regarding the Middle Rio Grande Region Water Plan.
• Estancia Basin Regional Water Plan, provided by the Office of the State Engineer, the office that administers the regional water planning program
• Additional water planning reports are available at the MRCOG library for viewing (our office).
• The New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission provides a Regional Water Planning Handbook to assist regional water planners
• New Mexico Floodplain Managers Association
• New Mexico Rural Water Association
• New Mexico Office of the State Engineer

Contact:  Joe Quintana ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it )