New Mexico Committee Proposes Aquifer Mapping and Brackish Water Desalination Bill

The New Mexico Legislature convened on February 22, 2025, for a meeting of the House Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee, focusing on critical water resource management issues. The session, which lasted from 8:00 AM to 10:07 AM, addressed the urgent need for investment in aquifer mapping and brackish water desalination projects.

The meeting began with discussions emphasizing the importance of characterizing the state's diverse aquifers. A representative highlighted the necessity of understanding both heavily studied and less explored aquifers to inform strategic water supply initiatives. The representative urged the committee to adopt a dual approach: advancing desalination projects while continuing to study aquifers, as the full characterization process could take up to 12 years.

Concerns were raised regarding the use of produced water in these initiatives. A committee member sought clarification on whether the proposed strategic water supply would involve the state buying and selling treated water, specifically produced water. The response clarified that the initiative would focus on treated brackish water and would not include produced water, addressing public confusion surrounding the bill.

The committee members expressed their support for the proposed measures, recognizing the pressing need for effective water management solutions in New Mexico. The discussions underscored a commitment to addressing water scarcity through innovative approaches while ensuring clarity in the legislative process.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the importance of moving forward with these initiatives to secure water resources for communities across the state. The next steps will involve further deliberations on the proposed legislation and continued engagement with experts in the field.