US Department of Interior approves evaluation of proposed Gila River project for New Mexico

The US Department of the Interior (DOI) has signed an agreement with New Mexico Central Arizona Project Entity to further evaluate the state’s share of the Gila River waters.

The deal marks the start of a process which will involve thorough evaluation of the full range of proposed water management options for the upper region of the river and inspect their impacts and costs.

Approval from the DOI follows a state decision to evaluate a potential diversion project which has invited opposition from environmentalists and others who opine that the project is likely to result in waste of around $1bn.

The Bureau of Reclamation under the DOI will be responsible for the evaluation of alternatives for the water management project.

DOI Water and Science principal deputy assistant secretary Jennifer Gimbel said: "No final decision has been made on the construction of a dam along the upper region of the Gila River nor has any decision been made about any non-diversion alternative to a dam.

"Interior is ensuring that a robust review process will be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and other environmental laws before a final decision is made.

"This review process will include early development of a full-range of alternatives to meet water supply needs in southwestern New Mexico, which will inform the CAP Entity, Interior, and the public as analysis proceeds and will provide ample opportunities for public participation."

The proposed project is expected to supply communities and irrigation districts in south western parts of the US state with a new source of water. The evaluation process is, however, likely to be a lengthy process.