Welcome to the New Mexico Drought Task Force

There are few places in the world where water holds such profound significance as here in New Mexico but the effects of climate change and aridification now threaten this precious resource. Scientists predict that over the next 50 years, New Mexico will have 25% less water than we do today.  Precipitation will be more variable and extreme. Snowpack, runoff, and aquifer recharge will decline, stressing surface water and groundwater supplies. Higher temperatures and greater aridity will dry landscapes, leading to more extreme wildfires and increased erosion. Climate Change in New Mexico Over the Next 50 Years: Impacts on Water Resources

Governor Lujan Grisham’s 50-Year Water Action Plan, contains strategies that the State can implement to address the hotter, drier future we are predicted to see.  In addition, New Mexico’s Drought Task Force has been in place since 2002 and includes leadership from more than 10 different State agencies that coordinate information regarding drought conditions and response efforts.  The Drought Task Force is chaired by the New Mexico State Engineer and is supported by a Drought Monitoring Work Group chaired by the State Climatologist. 

Planning and response efforts across the State are coordinated as needed, depending on the severity of the drought conditions and other situational factors.