SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's top water manager says he's not aware of any unauthorized diversions from the Rio Grande by one of the state's major irrigation districts.
State Engineer Tom Blaine made the comment in response to a lawsuit filed this week by WildEarth Guardians.
The environmental group claims the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District has failed to prove to the state engineer's office that the water being diverting is being put to beneficial use.
The group says under state law, Blaine is required to either set a deadline for the irrigation district to respond or cancel the permits that were issued to the district more than 80 years ago.