New Mexico Governor Richardson Announces Efforts to Protect the Endangered Gila River

April 17, 2008 -- SANTA FE - New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today joined a coalition of environmental groups to announce the Gila River has been added to a list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers.

“The Gila is New Mexico’s last free-flowing river,” said Governor Richardson. “While this designation is ominous, I am hopeful that this year’s listing will result in a renewed effort to protect the Gila River."

Gila River, New Mexico: Photo by Avelino Maestas (CC)

American Rivers listed the Gila as one of the most endangered rivers in the United States for 2008 due to the potential for a major water development project along its reaches. The State is committed to ensuring a secure water future for Southwestern New Mexico while protecting valuable natural resources like the Gila River.

Protecting New Mexico’s rivers is a priority for Governor Richardson. He has worked with the legislature to provide consistent funding for river ecosystem restoration projects across the state. This year $2.8 million was appropriated for river restoration projects. In addition, the Legislature provided over $800,000 for projects on the Santa Fe River – which was at the top of the American Rivers Most Endangered list last year.

In 2007, $2.35 million funded 11 projects across the state, on the Rio Grande, Pecos River, Rio Puerco, Gila River, Canadian River, Mora River, Rio San Jose, Cloverdale Creek, Rio de los Pinos, Bottomless Lakes, and Galisteo Creek.

For more information: http://www.americanrivers.org

Source: New Mexico Governor