Water scarcity

On the Navajo Nation, officials say about a third of people don't have access to clean water. Back in 2009, Congress authorized a massive infrastructure project designed to address this by bringing water to more than 250,000 people, from the San Juan river. But it's not done and Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren is asking Congress to authorize five more years' work, and increase the budget.

New Mexico faces a water dilemma, as drought dries out the Southwest. Agriculture uses about 80% of the state’s fresh water. But, farming is traditional here and a relatively big employer. So some farmers and researchers are trying ways to keep growing, but more sustainably.

Temperatures are soaring in the Southwest this week –– with highs reaching close to historical records here in New Mexico. The heat has researchers worried about birds and their health as climate change diminishes food and water supplies for native and migratory species.

In the direct aftermath of New Mexico’s largest-ever recorded wildfire, nearby rivers and streams were flooded with debris. One of those waterways –– the Rio Gallinas –– is now endangered from the fallout and the community wants the state to focus on its long-term health.

Voters in New Mexico are increasingly worried about the growing water crisis in the West. That’s according to an annual poll gauging the concerns of voters across the region.

Water scarcity is a growing issue across New Mexico. Climate change is raising temperatures while 75% of the state’s water goes toward irrigated crops ––stressing the state’s supply. In response, environmental organizations are protecting the state’s watersheds by setting their sights on important areas known as “wetland jewels.”

Hardly a day goes by without a terrifying reminder that the earth’s climate is in crisis. The Southwest is in a mega-drought and fires are erupting around…