U.S. Rep. Stansbury and U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior Beaudreau tour the New Belen Wasteway

BELEN— U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01) joined Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior Tommy Beaudreau to lift up the critical water impact of the New Belen Wasteway, a Bureau of Reclamation project that will provide operational flexibilities to respond to long-term drought, ensure that irrigation water can be returned to the Rio Grande, and support critical habitat for the endangered silvery minnow.

“Right now, communities across New Mexico are facing the impacts of the worst drought in 1,200 years,” said Stansbury. “As wildfires across our state continue to displace New Mexicans, it’s clear that it’s time for immediate and bold action to address the climate crisis, build our climate resilience, and ensure our communities are prepared for severe weather and drought.

“I’m proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering $8.3 billion nationwide for water resilience, critical funding that New Mexico needs to support our communities, build more sustainable infrastructure, and fund key water management projects.”

During the tour, Stansbury and Beaudreau discussed the critical environmental funding headed to New Mexico from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $8.3 billion for Reclamation to address the Western water crisis and $1.4 billion for national ecosystem restoration and resilience.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will create thousands of good-paying jobs and transform New Mexico’s economy through a $3.7 billion investment in New Mexico’s broadband, water, roads, bridges, public transportation, electric vehicle, airport, and other infrastructure.