News Release Archive

Reclamation Works with Las Vegas, NM to Ease Water Shortage

Media Contact: Mary Perea Carlson, (505) 462-3576, mperea@uc.usbr.gov

For Release: July 31, 2006

The Bureau of Reclamation has approved a request from the City of Las Vegas, New Mexico for an exploratory well that could ultimately ease the city's water shortage.

The drilling of the 3,000-foot exploratory well in the Taylor Well Field is expected to begin later this summer. It will determine whether viable sources of water exist at deeper levels that could increase the city's supply and provide a reliable water source during drought. The depth of the well is expected to keep it from affecting the existing Taylor Wells or residential wells in the area.

Funding for the project is being provided through Reclamation's Drought Emergency Assistance Program. The program was boosted earlier this summer with a $9 million supplemental appropriation for drought assistance in 17 western states sponsored by Sen. Pete Domenici.

The drought program provides the Bureau of Reclamation with the means to help tribes, states, municipalities and nonprofit organizations find ways to minimize the losses and damages associated with severe drought.

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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.