Contact: Erika Martinez
(505)986-4263
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2014
Senators Host Those Impacted by State’s Water Issues
Santa Fe, NM – Today, Democratic Senators heard from several constituents who represent the Agua Fria Trust Board, Trout Unlimited, SUNM Green Chamber of Commerce, and El Valle Water Alliance about the water issues they are facing in New Mexico. Hearing from those most impacted, say Democratic lawmakers, is necessary to assist them in crafting sound policy decisions regarding water.
“Water cannot be a political issue. It is critical that Democrats and Republicans listen to the needs of constitutents and work together to give New Mexicans the tools they need to save water, share water and conserve water at all levels,” said Senator Peter Wirth (D-25-Santa Fe). “If the Governor wants to spend more that the $100 million we have allocated for water projects, we have to see the list of the adminstration’s requests to be sure they are vetted against the needs in individual legislative districts. This is how the democratic process works.”
Those in attendance today heard about the ecological and financial damage that can come from the Governor’s proposed costly Gila Diversion project. Representatives from local villages and water associations discussed the difficulties they face in obtaining funds for water infrastructure projects. Farm owner and Senator Joseph Cervantes (D-31-Dona Ana) also spoke about the devastating impact the drought has had on his and other farms in the lower Rio Grande valley.
“These are the stories we need to hear and respond to,” said Sen. Cervantes. “We are now at the eighth day of the current session and the governor has still not communicated with us about where she wants the proposed $112 million to go. How long will we have to wait?”
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