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Drought emergency declared by governor SANTA FE, NM — Gov. Bill Richardson (D-NM) has declared a drought emergency that makes the state eligible for federal financial help, according to The Associated Press (AP). He also continued an order last year by his predecessor, Gov. Gary Johnson. "Despite recent rains, New Mexico continues down a path toward a long-term drought," Richardson told the AP. The state reached agreement with Texas in April that allows some water to be released this year from Elephant Butte reservoir in exchange for the right to store that water in upstream, drought-depleted areas, the article stated. Richardson also formed a task force to recommend ways to mitigate drought conditions. It will consider proposals made last year, including local conservation ordinances, water construction projects and fire prevention efforts, the news service reported. The declaration last year also freed $90 million in state money for such needs as municipal water supply projects, firefighting and water hauling for livestock, fisheries and wildlife, the AP said. To read the full story, click here. For more of the latest news, click here. For related information on this story, click here. To discuss this topic with other water and wastewater industry professionals, click here. |
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