Congressional Delegation Allocates $60M from Inflation Reduction Act to Enhance Water Security in Rio Grande Basin

Congressional Funding for Drought Mitigation in Rio Grande Basin

New Mexico Senators and Representatives have secured $60 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to aid Doña Ana and Sierra County residents and farmers in drought mitigation and climate adaptation efforts, bolstering water security in the Rio Grande Basin.

Impact of the Funding

Senator Heinrich emphasized the critical role of the funding in combating the effects of climate change on the Rio Grande, highlighting the importance of aquifer recharge, irrigation demand reduction, and riparian habitat improvement.

Senator Luján recognized the significance of the Inflation Reduction Act in addressing drought impacts in the Rio Grande Basin, crucial for New Mexico and neighboring states.

Representative Leger Fernández stressed the need to protect the Rio Grande Basin amidst changing weather patterns due to climate change, expressing gratitude for the federal funding allocation.

Representative Stansbury highlighted the essential nature of water in combating drought, supporting agriculture, and addressing water challenges across New Mexico with the Inflation Reduction Act funding.

Representative Vasquez underscored the importance of the Rio Grande as a vital resource for communities, particularly for agricultural producers, in securing clean water and a healthy ecosystem.

Background

This funding announcement follows recent advocacy efforts by the delegation urging the Biden administration to prioritize drought mitigation in the Rio Grande Basin, including letters to the administration in April and December.

In December, Senators Heinrich and Luján called on U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to develop a comprehensive funding plan for drought mitigation and climate adaptation in the Rio Grande Basin.

In 2022, Senators Heinrich and Luján also requested DOI Assistant Secretary Tanya Trujillo to allocate funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to support drought mitigation, resilience, and Tribal and Pueblo irrigation needs in the Rio Grande Basin.