Water Management Agencies

Currently, three water management agencies are members of MRCOG, and they play an active role in water planning: the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority (AMAFCA), the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD), and the Southern Sandoval County Arroyo Flood Control Authority (SSCAFCA)

  1. AMAFCA
  2. MRGCD
  3. SSCAFCA

AMAFCA was created by the New Mexico Legislature with the Arroyo Flood Control Act of 1963 as a local government with responsibility "to protect persons and property from flash floods". The need for control of flood water from arroyos had become apparent in the 1950's when a combination of urban development (pavement and rooftops) and removal of natural vegetation on the mesas around Albuquerque increased storm runoff into the valley. At the same time, the Rio Grande riverbed was rising due to silt. Since establishment, AMAFCA has overseen construction of numerous channels and the lining or stabilization of a number of arroyos.

AMAFCA Board

A five member elected Board administers the Authority. The terms are for six years and are staggered. Board members are not paid for their services.