The state has rights to some of the Gila River and one of its
tributaries under a 2004 settlement with Arizona
but must decide by the end of the year what to do with the water.
If New Mexico doesn't use
the water, it could forgo millions of dollars in federal funds available for
construction of a diversion project.
Environmentalists and sportsmen say
any dams or diversions would harm the area's wildlife and limit opportunities
for recreation. But farmers throughout the region say the Gila would
offer a backup source of water as dry conditions persist.
Two state
senators have introduced legislation this session to try and address the
dilemma.
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