By Anna Cao, Economics & Statistics Major, Mentor Jingjing Wang.
Water scarcity in New Mexico is an issue felt by those who depend on it. In recent years, the Middle Rio Grande has seen severe drought conditions including drying of the river due to over usage of water. There is a high demand for water in various sectors, but there is not enough water to meet the demands of users who rely on it. The Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD) Agricultural Water Users survey is currently being conducted to gain insight into agricultural water users’ perspectives amid increasing water scarcity in the Middle Rio Grande. The survey aims to understand agricultural water users’ preference for alternative water conservation programs in the MRGCD. Since farmers are underrepresented, this survey gives them the opportunity to have their voices heard and to share their perspectives on water scarcity and water conservation programs. The findings from the survey hope to inform the design of optimal water conservation programs in the region and thus improve water security for agricultural water users as well as aid the implementation of New Mexico’s 50-year water action plan. This communication project is a website that provides insight into the survey and provide more information for those who are interested in the research to understand agricultural water users’ preference for alternative water conservation programs in the MRGCD. Further down the line, the report of the survey will be published on the website, and it will be accessible for those who are interested in the findings of the survey for future policy making. By allowing agricultural water users who are underrepresented to have a voice, policymakers can develop more informed and effective responses to water scarcity and promote water conservation for a future where water can still flow.