Angel Pena
| Executive Director of the Nuestra Tierra Land Conservation Project
In New Mexico, water is the lifeblood of our land and people. Water flows through more than rivers and taps—it flows through all of us, tying together our past, present, and future.
For those of us who grew up here in Southern New Mexico, water has always been central to life, not just for practical reasons, but as a cornerstone of our traditions. From farming to recreation to celebrations, water shapes the way we live.
The Rio Grande, once a constant presence, was more than just a river to us. It was a life-giver, turning the desert green, feeding our crops, and bringing neighbors together. Today, the situation is different—and it’s worrying. Climate change, drought, and increasing industrial demands have drastically reduced water flows. In places like Las Cruces, the river is now dry for most of the year. For New Mexicans, this is more than an environmental issue – it’s a cultural crisis. The drying river isn’t just about losing water – it’s about losing a vital part of our heritage and connection to the land and each other.
When the river does flow, even if only for a few precious days, life erupts along its banks. Families gather along the river, kids float down the water, and the landscape bursts into green. Nuestra Tierra was fortunate enough to experience the long tradition of enjoying the summer rivers flows in July, bringing together nature enthusiasts, families, and friends for a float celebrating our collective efforts to preserve natural spaces. These moments, although increasingly rare, remind us of the deep bond we share with water—a bond that’s at risk of slipping away.
In September, we’ll gather again to connect with nature, celebrate our community, and learn about the environmental challenges we face. We invite everyone to join us for the Rio Grande Comunidades Celebration at La Llorona Park on Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This special event is part of Latino Conservation Week, a nationwide effort to engage the Latino community in outdoor activities, environmental education, and conservation initiatives.
As water supplies continue to dwindle, the challenge of preserving this connection becomes more urgent. The future of New Mexico’s water supply is uncertain, and without action, we risk losing not just a resource, but a vital part of who we are. Water isn’t just about survival. It is about keeping our traditions alive and ensuring future generations can experience the same rich culture that water has always provided.
New Mexico has a rare opportunity. The state’s budget surplus offers a chance to invest in long-term water management strategies that prioritize sustainability. This isn’t just about fixing pipes or saving plants and animals. Water is life for New Mexicans. It’s not just a saying—it’s a reality that has defined our communities for centuries. Water isn’t something we can take for granted. As we face the growing water crisis, we need to make sure that water stays at the top of our priority list. By doing so, we can ensure our communities survive, thrive and keep alive the deep cultural connection to water that has defined New Mexico for centuries.
It’s something we must fight for, something we must protect because water can’t wait. As we prepare for the upcoming session, we urge all our state leaders to make water issues a priority. The cultures and people of Southern New Mexico are counting on it.
Angel Pena is the Executive Director of the Nuestra Tierra Land Conservation Project based in Las Cruces. For more information about the Rio Grande Comunidades Celebration at La Llorona Park on Sept. 21, visit bit.ly/LCW2024.
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Publish date : 2024-09-12 22:17:00
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