By Jamie Martin
In a significant legislative move, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján and John Cornyn have reintroduced the ACEQUIA Act, a bipartisan effort to bolster drought protections for acequias—community-managed irrigation systems integral to New Mexico's agriculture.
This legislation aims to amend the USDA's Non-Insured Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) to include acequias, enabling them to receive the same disaster assistance as other agricultural systems.
"Acequias are a rich part of New Mexico’s culture and essential to our way of life. For generations, our farmers and ranchers have relied on this community-owned and managed irrigation system that delivers water throughout local communities,” Senator Luján expressed, highlighting the cultural and practical significance of acequias in the region.
The bill also seeks to simplify the maintenance and improvement processes on federal lands for acequias by eliminating the need for special-use permits. This change would reduce bureaucratic hurdles and support the sustainability of these traditional irrigation channels.
Drought conditions have increasingly challenged these systems, impacting crop yields and growing seasons. The ACEQUIA Act addresses these challenges by ensuring acequias have access to vital federal support, thereby protecting this ancient agricultural tradition.
Senator Cornyn also supported the bill, recognizing the importance of acequias in supporting Western communities and the agricultural economy. This legislative effort builds on previous successes, including securing federal funding and legislative measures to support acequia management and infrastructure.
As the bill moves forward, it symbolizes a crucial step in acknowledging and supporting the unique agricultural practices of the American West, ensuring that acequias continue to sustain communities just as they have for generations.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National