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Interstate Stream Commission

Strategic Water Reserve

Introduction

In 2005 a broad coalition of stakeholders came together to support legislation creating the Strategic Water Reserve. Water and water rights in the Reserve can be used for two purposes:

  1. To comply with interstate river compacts and court decrees; and
  2. To assist the state and water users in efforts to benefit threatened and endangered species or to avoid additional listings.

The Interstate Stream Commission may acquire water or water rights for the Reserve by purchase, lease, or donation from willing offerors. The Commission may also construct and operate infrastructure to deliver water where it is needed for these purposes. 

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS – 2025

Over the 20 years of its existence, the Reserve has supported New Mexico in meeting compact obligations in the Pecos, Rio Grande, Canadian, and most recently, the Colorado River basins. It has played an integral role in recovery plans for several at-risk fish and bird species. As competition for New Mexico’s limited water resources intensifies, the potential of the Reserve to protect the state’s water supplies, water users, and environment is drawing increased attention.

At this 20-year milestone, the Interstate Stream Commission is undertaking a review of the Reserve in order to consider these central questions: What has been accomplished? What are the lessons learned? What could be improved? How should New Mexico use the Reserve into the future?

Commission staff are planning opportunities for New Mexicans to share their thoughts about the Reserve during this review year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact Pam Homer, Strategic Water Reserve Technical Lead, at pamela.homer@ose.nm.gov or 505-637-1559.

Basic Documents

Annual Priorities for Strategic Water Reserve

The Interstate Stream Commission sets river reach and groundwater basin priorities annually for the acquisition of water, water rights, or storage rights for the Reserve.

Current Strategic Water Reserve Priorities

Priorities

River Reaches

Groundwater Basins

Middle Rio Grande

X

X

Lower Rio Grande

X

X

Lower Pecos River (below Sumner Reservoir)

X

X

Black River (tributary to the Lower Pecos River)

X

X

Canadian River

X

 

San Juan River

X

 

Reports to Legislature on Strategic Water Reserve