U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) hosted a 'Water Is Life' event on August 18, 2024, emphasizing the critical importance of water as a vital resource for New Mexico. During the event, Stansbury highlighted her legislative efforts aimed at improving water security in the region, including the successful passage of the Water Data Act and the Rio Grande Water Security Act. Additionally, she serves as a co-sponsor of the Clean Water Act of 2023, which aims to enhance water quality and accessibility across the state [ffc111ff].
Stansbury has secured nearly $1 million for local water projects and $186 million for Western drought programs, demonstrating her commitment to addressing the ongoing water crisis exacerbated by climate change. She advocates for the protection of acequias—traditional irrigation systems—and water rights, which are crucial for sustaining local agriculture and communities. Her efforts are aimed at ensuring that all New Mexicans have access to clean and reliable water sources [ffc111ff].