Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 23, 2001
Contact: Lorri Ortega
Office of the State Engineer/Interstate Stream Commission
(505)827-6182

Position The State Engineer Takes in the Minnow v Martinez Endangered Species Litigation

Today, State Engineer Tom Turney, advised the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District and the United States Bureau of Reclamation that the State will take the position in Minnow v Martinez endangered species litigation that his office will recognize the diversion of 7.2 acre-feet of water per acre of irrigated non-Pueblo lands on an annual basis. This is necessary diversion amount necessary for District members beneficial use of 2.1 acre feet per irrigated acre.

Based on data submitted by the District to the Bureau of Reclamation for the years 1989 through 1999, the District diverted an annual average of 609,700 acre-feet. This water was applied to 53,685

acres of irrigated land, a diversion of over 11 acre-feet per acre. Turney further requested today that the Department of Interior advise him of the total annual diversion requirement for irrigated Pueblo lands within the boundaries of the Conservancy District.

"The District's current diversion indicate an efficiency of 22%." said Turney. "Arguably, their efficiency is among the lowest in the State. We feel that it is not unreasonable to expect the district improve its efficiency; an efficiency of 45% could be achieved. "

"Our litigation position, based on the foregoing, will not affect individual farmers. They should receive no less water than the State Engineer permitted them in 1930. What will be impacted is the delivery system--- the efficiency of the existing delivery system needs to be significantly improved."

Turney advised that his office has funding available for the District to enhance metering projects and conveyance system improvements.

The future of the Middle Rio Grande Valley depends upon the successful management of the public waters and the effect administration of water use within the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District. This is a balancing act that must keep in mind the needs and rights of our farmers, cities and Pueblos, while at the same time remaining cognizant of the federal requirements regarding the Endangered Species Act.