The Albuquerque Journal reported that exceptional drought conditions in New Mexico’s Pecos River have prompted the state to pump water from its reservoirs into the river to replenish its supply. The interstate river is a significant freshwater source for both New Mexico and the American Southwest.

The U.S. Drought Monitor reported that nearly one third of New Mexico is under “exceptional” drought conditions, increasing the risk of wildfires and decreasing water access for agricultural communities. State law mandates that if the March water levels are forecasted to be below a certain threshold, reserves will be pumped from reservoirs to account for the difference.

To read the full report from the Albuquerque Journal, go to: https://www.abqjournal.com/1520746/pumping-into-pecos-river-aims-to-offset-drought-losses-ex-diverted-water-will-be-delivered-to-carlsbad-irrigation-district-members.html