New Mexico Invests $26 Million in Innovative Brackish Water Projects

Strengthening Water Resources Amidst Growing Scarcity

In a significant move to combat water scarcity, New Mexico has announced the allocation of $25.9 million in grants to seven diverse projects aimed at harnessing brackish water. This initiative is part of the state’s Strategic Water Supply Program, established to reduce dependence on freshwater sources and promote sustainable water management in light of anticipated climate challenges. The announcement was made by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) and Office of the State Engineer on December 17, 2025.

Overview of Funded Projects

The awarded grants will support a variety of projects, each designed to explore and utilize the state’s brackish water resources, which have been largely untapped due to the high costs associated with their development. The projects include:

• Village of Cuba: $11.7 million for designing a zero-waste desalination facility capable of producing 518,000 gallons of potable water daily, converting brine into fertilizer.
• Laguna Pueblo: $6 million for a feasibility study on brackish water resources, aimed at enhancing tribal water resilience.
• NMSU Arrowhead Center: $3 million to establish a Brine Valorization Hub to create valuable products from waste brine.
• Alamo Navajo Chapter: $1.9 million for a small-scale water treatment plant to address increasing salinity in local water sources.
• New Mexico Tech: $1.6 million for advanced membrane research to recover over 98% high-purity water.
• City of Anthony: $1.4 million for pilot environmental analysis of brackish groundwater.
• University of New Mexico: $400,000 for a statewide study on economic and environmental tradeoffs in brackish water management.

These initiatives were selected from a competitive pool of 13 applications requesting more than $94 million, highlighting the urgent need for innovative water solutions in the state.

Addressing Water Scarcity Challenges

New Mexico currently faces significant water challenges, with projections indicating a 25% reduction in freshwater availability over the next 50 years due to climate change and increasing demand. The state’s strategic approach to developing its brackish water resources aims to alleviate pressure on freshwater supplies, ensuring sustainable access for drinking, agriculture, and ecosystem maintenance.

According to Rebecca Roose, the governor’s senior infrastructure adviser, this program is crucial for fostering local economies while preserving vital freshwater resources. “The science tells us that 50 years out, we’re going to have 25% less fresh water in New Mexico,” she stated.

Future Directions and Funding Initiatives

The success of these projects will pave the way for future funding opportunities, as the governor plans to request additional funds in the upcoming legislative session. With the New Mexico Environment Department proposing $75 million for the Strategic Water Supply Program in the next fiscal year, there is a clear commitment to enhancing water resource management across the state.

As New Mexico explores its extensive brackish water reserves, estimated to be between 2 to 4 billion acre-feet, the ongoing research and development efforts are set to position the state as a leader in innovative water solutions, responding effectively to the pressing challenges of water scarcity.