- Reclamation
- News & Multimedia
- News Releases
- News Release Archive
- Construction Begins on Minnow Sanctuary
News Release Archive
Construction Begins on Minnow Sanctuary
Media Contact:
Mary Perea, (505) 462-3576, mperea@uc.usbr.gov
For Release: February 20, 2006
The first phase of construction began Feb. 20 on a protected off-channel sanctuary for the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow.
The Bureau of Reclamation, Fish and Wildlife Service, City of Albuquerque and Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District are working together on the project in southwest Albuquerque.
The idea for the sanctuary was brought to the group by Senator Pete Domenici as all parties looked for ways to sustain the habitat for the silvery minnow.
Albuquerque-based AJAC Enterprises Inc. has been contracted to construct the first phase, which includes part of the pump station and concrete work.
Crews clearing vegetation and performing wood and concrete work will be visible to those walking along the levee road or biking on the bicycle path through the Rio Grande bosque south of Bridge Blvd. Bicycle traffic will be temporarily diverted at times as a safety measure.
The sanctuary was designed to mimic ideal river conditions. The channel near the river will provide a breeding and rearing habitat for the minnow and protection from predator fish. Gates and fish screens will allow fish and eggs to be held in the channel and eventually released directly back into the river. Releases will be timed according to river conditions.
Construction of the sanctuary is considered essential for successful protection of the Rio Grande silvery minnow.
Members of the media wishing to see the construction site may contact Mary Perea Carlson at (505)462-3576 to coordinate a visit and discuss safety requirements.
# # #
The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.
