Anaerobic Digester Supernatant Treatment Using Algal Systems

S. A. Abeysiriwardana-Arachchige

sachitra@nmsu.edu

Graham W. Chapman

grahamc@nmsu.edu

N. Nirmalakhandan

nkhandan@nmsu.edu

Civil Engineering Dept., New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA

Abstract 1

Successful cultivation of a mixotrophic algal strain, Galdieria sulphuraria, in primary effluent

has been demonstrated previously. The current study evaluated the feasibility of this algal system

in treating a blend of the primary effluent and anaerobic digester supernatant (ADS). Field

experiments were conducted in two photobioreactors in a fed-batch mode with a working volume

of 700L comprising 400L of wastewater and 300L of preadapted culture. Three compositions of

the feed were tested; ADS: 10%, 15% and 20% and primary effluent: 90%, 85%, 80%. Each fed-

batch cycle was conducted until the reactor contents in at least one reactor reached the discharge

standards for all three primary pollutants: ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N)- 10 mg/l; phosphate

(PO43-)- 1 mg/l; and 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) – 30 mg/l. The volumetric

removal rates of NH3-N in reactors 1 and 2 at 10%, 15% and 20% ADS content were 1.98, 1.82

and 3.53 mg/L-d and, 2.3, 1.66 and 1.08 mg/L-d respectively; corresponding volumetric removal

rates for PO43- were 1.69, 1.11 and 0.62 mg/L-d and, 1.69, 2.02 and 0.64 mg/L-d. Despite the

consecutive increment of ADS content from 10% to 20%, reactor 1 reached all discharge

standards in 6, 6 and 8 days. Although reactor 2 met all discharge limits at 10% ADS, NH3-N

discharge limit could not be reached at 15% and 20%. Reactors 1 and 2 reached the BOD5

discharge limit at 10% ADS content while maintaining volumetric removal rates respectively of

4.8 and 3.3 mg/L-d (BOD5 data in the last two cycles are still due).

Enhanced Water Recovery and Membrane Scaling Mitigation for Desalination

Using Innovative Electromagnetic Field (EMF) and 3D Printed Open Flow Channel

Membranes

Juliano Penteado de Almeida

julipent@nmsu.edu

Pei Xu

pxu@nmsu.edu

Department of Civil Engineering, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

Abstract 2

Depletion of fresh water resources, chronic droughts, increase in population and urbanization upsurge the

need of developing alternative water sources. Desalination of brackish groundwater provides opportunities

to enhance water security by converting saline water into drinkable water. However, membrane fouling and

scaling, and resulted low water recovery, high energy demand, chemical uses, and large volumes of

concentrate for disposal, have been a major challenge for successful implementation of desalination

technologies.

In this study, we developed an innovative High Recovery Reverse Osmosis (HRRO) process to reduce

membrane fouling and scaling, and to enhance desalination efficiency. Our system uses non-chemical

pretreatment with electromagnetic field (EMF) and 3D printed RO membranes. The bench-scale testing

demonstrated the EMF provides an effective pretreatment to control membrane scaling during desalination

of a challenging brackish groundwater. The EMF device increased water recovery from 50% to 70%, and

the permeate water flux decline was ameliorated by 56%. The groundwater was primarily CaSO4 type with

a total dissolved solids concentration of 5,850 mg/L and hardness of 2,500 mg/L as CaCO3.

This technology can significantly reduce operational costs, energy demand, negative environmental impacts

of desalination technologies, increase the RO membrane life time and meets the pressing need for more

effective and less expensive desalination method.

Field Evaluation of TEROS 12 Sensor in a Clay Soil

E. Mokarighahroodi

PhD candidate emokari@nmsu.edu

M. K. Shukla

Professor of soil physics shuklamk@nmsu.edu

Department of Plant and Environmental Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces,

New Mexico 88003, United States

Abstract 3

Decreasing availability of freshwater and increasing use of brackish groundwater for irrigation is

a major constraint for Pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] production in the

southwestern United States. This research assessed the performance of a new TEROS 12 sensor

for estimating volumetric soil water content ( ), soil temperature, and saturation extract EC (ECe).

Sensors were installed in a Pecan orchard sited in a clay soil at 1m and 2m from tree trunk and at

the depths of 10, 20, and 40 cm from soil surface. Soil samples were collected seventeen times

between three successive irrigations where soil water content and saturated paste EC were

determined. TEROS 12 sensor showed that obtained by manufacturer’s equation agreed well

with gravimetrically measured at 10 and 20 cm depths (RMSE cm3 cm-3 <0.06; d> 0.72) while

it overestimated at the depth of 40 cm in both locations. TEROS 12 estimated ECe were 78%

and 60% higher than measured ECe at 10 and 20 cm depths, respectively. Generally, Hilhorst

model could not completely take into consideration the electrical interactions between the solution

and solid phases of the soil and overestimated pore water EC (σp). Use of apparent dielectric

permittivity (ԑa) in TEROS 12 seemed to have led to errors in estimating ECe through its effects

on . Study showed that TEROS 12 sensor can monitor in clay soils accurately while it was

less accurate for estimating ECe. Accuracy in measuring ԑa is highly important for estimating ECe.

Keywords: Apparent dielectric permittivity; Saturation extract EC; TEROS 12 sensor; soil water

content

Wastewater-Treatment Algae-Derived Hydrochar for Heavy Metal Adsorption and

Recycling

Jiuling Yu, Tianbai Tang, Feng Cheng, Di Huang, Catherine E. Brewer1, Hongmei Luo2

1cbrewer@nmsu.edu, 2hluo@nmsu.edu

Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, New Mexico State University,

Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA

Abstract 4

Water contamination caused by heavy metals, released by wind or water erosion from over 15,000

abandoned mines in New Mexico (NM), has been a severe environmental issue. Compared with other

methods, adsorption is an attractive strategy due to its low-cost and simple operation condition. Here, we

use the hydrochar derived from wastewater-treatment (WWT) algae by hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL)

process as the adsorbent for Pb(Ⅱ) removal. In this work, it’s not only to investigate the effects of two

pretreatments (oil extraction and CO2 activation), but the influences on the pH value and initial

concentration are also discussed. Notwithstanding, it remains challenging to process the adsorbed

hydrochar after adsorbing Pb(Ⅱ) in a sustainable way. Other than the traditional processing methods

(burning and landfilling) releasing a great amount of adsorbed toxic metals on hydrochar into atmosphere,

we propose an approach which reuses hydrochar after adsorption of Pb as anodes in lithium-ion batteries

(LIBs). Our work suggests a sustainable way to make the byproduct of HTL from waste to useful

adsorbent. Furthermore, it also points out another possible method to make full of Pb-adsorbed hydrochar

in LIBs, which provides more value-added products to be beneficial to develop the environmentally

friendly society.

Assessment of Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs) formation in algae-treated

wastewater for safer reuse in restricted applications

S. P. Munasinghe-Arachchige1, K. Sparks2, H. M. K. Delanka-Pedige3, I. S. A. Abeysiriwardana-

Arachchige4, G. W. Chapman5, Y. Zhang6, N. Nirmalakhandan7

1srimali@nmsu.edu, 2ksparks@nmsu.edu, 3himalimk@nmsu.edu, 4sachitra@nmsu.edu,

5grahamc@nmsu.edu, 6zhangy@nmsu.edu, 7nkhandan@nmsu.edu

Civil Engineering Department, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA, 88003

Abstract 5

Wastewater utilities are considering treated urban wastewaters for potential reuse applications to

manage their water portfolio in the face of freshwater shortages and drought. Towards this end,

the viability of a novel algal wastewater treatment system (A-WWTS) in removing organic

carbon, nutrients, and pathogens in urban wastewater below discharge permits has been

documented at pilot scale. The goal of this study is to optimize the final disinfection of the

effluent of the A-WWTS for its beneficial reuse in restricted applications.

Based on preliminary tests, chlorination of the effluent of A-WWTS with excess sodium

hypochlorite (NaOCl) at pH 7 resulted in more than 25% reduction of initial dissolved organic

carbon leading to an increase of the specific UV absorbance (SUVA). The decrease of inorganic

and organic nitrogen concentrations after chlorination suggested possible reactions of chlorine

with residual nitrogen in the effluent. Restoring the pH of the effluent of A-WWTS from 4 to 6 is

identified as the preferred option prior to chlorination with NaOCl as the disinfectant. Lowest

initial chlorine dose required to maintain a residual chlorine level above 0.5 mg Cl2/L after 30

minutes of disinfection is determined to be about 45 mg of Cl2 per gallon of wastewater treated.

Rainfall Runoff relationships in the Arroyo de los Piños Watershed

Madeline Richards, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, NM

madeline.richards@student.nmt.edu

Dr. Daniel Cadol, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, NM,

daniel.cadol@nmt.edu

Dr. Jonathan B. Laronne, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel,

john@bgu.ac.il

Kyle Stark, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, NM,

kyle.stark@student.nmt.edu

Sharllyn Pimentel, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro,

NM, sharllyn.pimentel@student.nmt.edu

Abstract 6

In semi-arid climates, sediment influx to large rivers such as the Rio Grande from small

ephemeral streams is challenging to quantify. The Arroyo de los Piños is currently one of very

few study sites collecting data on water velocity, discharge, bedload, and suspended sediment, all

in the hopes of quantifying the water and sediment contribution from ephemeral channels. In

addition, gaining a clearer picture of stream connectivity and rainfall-runoff relationships in this

channel will be useful for quantifying flow generation, aquifer recharge, and transmission loss

through the stream bed. These processes affect flow conditions, and thus sediment transport, and

influence our ability to generalize our findings beyond the Arroyo de los Piños.

With monetary help from WRRI, nineteen pressure transducers have been installed in the

tributary channels of the Piños. These pressure transducers complement a rain gauge network

composed of five tipping bucket gauges spread throughout the watershed. Using these, we can

document which lithologic units produced flow most readily and identify a rainfall threshold

required for flow generation. Though the 2019 monsoon season has been below average in the

watershed (1.9 inches[ of rainfall was recorded from July to September), there have been four

flow events recorded by these pressure transducers since installment; two floods in October

2018, one flood in March 2019, and one in May 2019. The two floods in October reached the

main monitoring site at the confluence to the Rio Grande. The two small floods recorded in 2019

did not reach the Rio Grande, but instead infiltrated completely, contributing to the local shallow

aquifer.

Undergraduate Research on the Ogallala Aquifer and Museum Design

Erik Stanley

Erik.Stanley@enmu.edu

Abstract 7

This poster explores pedagogical approaches to student research with a focus on helping

undergraduates transform their ethnographic fieldwork into museum exhibits. Using examples

from my 2018 Ethnographic Methods class project into the depletion of the Ogallala aquifer, I

demonstrate how moving research beyond the traditional essay model and into a museum setting

provides valuable real-world experience to students interested in museum exhibit design as well

as allow them to reach a wider audience with their work. This research brought together

ethnographic and historical as the basis of a permanent museum exhibit at the Blackwater Draw

Museum that emphasizes both education and interpretation.

Rangeland Precipitation Monitoring Tools

Helena Deswood

helena.deswood@usda.gov

USDA Southwest Climate Hub, USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range,

Las Cruces, NM 88003.

Abstract 8

Effective rangeland management practices incorporates precipitation monitoring. Precipitation is

critical for arid rangelands since the amount of precipitation affects the forage production used

by livestock and wildlife, and recharging water sources. Tools have been developed to support

agricultural producers and land managers in their decision making, such as, did the forage

production respond to precipitation received? Or did the rotational pastures receive enough rain

and/or snow? Two low-cost tools are available to measure precipitation at different frequencies

and the recorded data for the monitored area is tied to historical data to determine if the working

land is in a dry, near normal or wet condition. CoCoRaHS (Community Collaborative Rain, Hail

and Snow) Network is a community based network of citizen scientists working together to

measure and map rain, hail and snow on a daily basis. The myRAINge Log was developed with

ranchers and land managers to collect, manage and use precipitation observations to support

management decisions. The rain gauges used for the myRAINge Log were designed with remote

locations in mind where the rain gauge does not need to be recorded on a daily basis.

Monitoring toxic metal uptake by corn grown in agricultural fields across Animas

and San Juan Rivers

Michael Whiting

Mikeaid@nmsu.edu

Gaurav Jha

gjha@nmsu.edu

April Ulery:

aulery@nmsu.edu

Kevin Lombard

klombard@nmsu.edu

Plant and Environmental Sciences, New Mexico State University, Farmington NM

Abstract 9

On August 5th, 2015, more than 3 million gallons of metal contaminated water from the Gold

King Mine was released into Cement Creek unintentionally, leading to the contamination of the

Animas and San Juan Rivers. Analysis of edible produce collected from fields irrigated with

Animas River water was done in 2018 and found three corn samples with lead concentrations

above the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline value of 0.05 ppm. Since then, the

original samples were reanalyzed, resulting in two corn samples out of 30 still being above the

WHO guidelines. The purpose of this study is to investigate these findings and to monitor the

metals lead, arsenic, and aluminum in the agricultural fields.

Five fields along the Animas and San Juan Rivers have been selected. Each field is divided into

four quadrants with three sites randomly selected within each quadrant. A GPS device located

each sample location. Portable X-Ray Fluorescence (PXRF) scans were taken at each field and

soil has been collected and is being analyzed using ICP-OES. During the growing season, leaf

tissue samples were collected from corn plants at each designated sampling location and the

plants were flagged. The leaf samples were dried, ground, and are awaiting analysis using ICP-

MS. During the harvest season, corn cobs were collected and dried and are being prepared for

analysis. Analyzing soil, leaf tissue, and corn kernels collectively will assist in identifying

potential sources of contamination and plant uptake of Al, As and Pb.

Tracking CRE in the Rio Grande: determining the spread of antibiotic resistance in

surface waters

Kimberly McNair Kimberly.mcnair@student.nmt.edu

Linda C. DeVeaux

Associate Professor, Department Chair, Biology linda.deveaux@nmt.edu

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology,

Socorro, New Mexico 87801

Abstract 10

Antibiotic resistance has become a worldwide health problem. Interstate and international

waterways contaminated by wastewater effluent or livestock could carry antibiotic resistant

pathogens between communities, spreading disease downstream to previously unexposed

regions. The Rio Grande, New Mexico’s largest river, supports agricultural and recreational

activity throughout the state, but it may be responsible for transporting such deadly microbes. In

particular, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is an emerging threat in healthcare

settings that may have an environmental reservoir. To examine this possibility, water samples

have been taken bimonthly from the Rio Grande around Albuquerque since summer of 2018.

Community DNA was isolated from bacteria collected via filtration and examined using PCR to

seek out common antibiotic resistance genes. Genes for two of the five most common

carbapenemases in the United States were identified in water samples from multiple locations,

and one bacterial strain containing a carbapenemase gene not previously found in any clinical

cases in New Mexico has been isolated from a sample taken outside of Taos. These findings

suggest that the Rio Grande is a vector for the spread of CRE. Major sources of contamination

are likely from multiple locations along the river. Continued investigation may reveal these

sources, and tracking the emergence of new CREs in nature and in nearby clinics could uncover

a link between environmental dissemination and infection.

Combined Algal and Membrane System for Potable Water Recovery from

Wastewater

G.L.C.L. Bandara1, X. Xu2, I.S. Abeysiriwardhana3, W. Chapmam4, N. Nirmalakhandan5, P. Xu6

1chathu@nmsu.edu, 2xuesong@nmsu.edu, 3sachitra@nmsu.edu, 4grahamc@nmsu.edu, 5nkhandan@nmsu.edu, 6pxu@nmsu.edu

Civil Engineering Department, New Mexico State University,

Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, United States

Abstract 11

Urban wastewater is being realized as a resource from which water, energy, and nutrients can be

recovered for beneficial uses. This upsurges the need for developing energy efficient technologies to treat

alternative water sources of impaired quality to recover potable-quality water. The alga-based bio-reactor

system developed by New Mexico State University has been demonstrated as an energy-efficient system

for removing dissolved organic carbon and nutrients from primary effluent to the required discharge

standards in a single step.

This study evaluated the feasibility of harvesting algal biomass and recovering potable quality water from

the effluent of the alga-based bio-reactor system by coupling it with a hybrid forward osmosis (FO) and

reverse osmosis (RO) system in pilot-scale. Forward osmosis flow was optimized according to the water

flux, flux decline rate and salt back diffusion rate. Three flowrates were selected for the FO flow

optimizing and 1.8 GPM was selected among 1.0 GPM, 1.5 GPM and 1.8GPM flowrates due to higher

water flux and considerably low salt back diffusion. Water quality of the samples collected from the

sample points across the pilot-scale algal/FO/RO system was analyzed to demonstrate the viability of this

system.

Removal of Heavy Metal Ions from Aqueous Solution Using Char Derived from

Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Food Waste

Hengameh Bayat hbayat@nmsu.edu

Umakanta Jena ujena@nmsu.edu

Chemical and Materials Engineering Department, New Mexico State University,

Las Cruces, 88003

Abstract 12

Adsorption of heavy metals and other harmful inorganic and organic compounds from

contaminated water using carbon material is a cost-effective remediation method. Food waste

organic fraction is a renewable carbon source that remains underutilized and has limited present

applications such as landfilling and composting, which leads to the generation of uncontrolled

greenhouse gases and liquid wastes that contaminate soil, groundwater, and rivers. The present

study investigates the higher value utilization of food waste as a source of fuel and a carbon

byproduct. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a thermochemical process performed in hot,

compressed water that converts food-processing waste into an energy-dense bio-crude oil along

with co-products such as gas, aqueous phase, and HTL-char. NMSU has been conducting

experiments on HTL of food waste using batch reactors. Our preliminary results show that the

mass yield of HTL-char is 37.5% of the starting food waste (dry basis) at HTL operating

conditions of 240°C, 30 min reaction time and 15wt% of solids loading. The Brunauer-Emmett-

Teller (BET) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of HTL-char indicates that

although the surface area is relatively lower than the char obtained from other thermochemical

processes (example, pyrolysis), it contains higher oxygen-containing functional groups that will

enhance adsorption of heavy metals. The current research is conducting a systematic

investigation into pretreatment of HTL-char, detailed characterization of its elemental and

surface properties and its evaluation as an adsorbent material for removal of heavy metal ions

such as lead and copper.

Utilizing Traditional Navajo Ecological Knowledge Through Navajo Place Names to

Map Navajo Nation Water Sources in the San Juan Basin, NM

K. E. Y. Clah,

Candidate for Master of Water Resources, UNM

keyclah@gmail.com

L. M. Tsinnajinnie

Community and Regional Planning, UNM

lanimts@unm.edu

L. Harjo

Indigenous Planning and Community Development, UNM

harjo@unm.edu

Abstract 13

The Navajo Nation has been the target of mineral leasing allowing uranium, coal and oil mining

on Navajo land since its inception in 1923. The Navajo Nation consists of 110 chapters, local

government subdivisions, organized into five agencies. Utilizing traditional Navajo Nation

chapter names in the Navajo language, Traditional Navajo Ecological Knowledge (TNEK) can

assist in identifying water sources including springs, reservoirs, ponds, and rivers that can be

assessed for vulnerability and sensitivity to climate change. There are 52 Navajo Nation chapters

located in the San Juan Basin and 22 chapters have water related names. Water sources

associated with place names will also be evaluated for risks from industrial development. Water

is sacred to the Navajo people as well as providing identity, kinship and livelihood to Navajo

communities. To ensure profiled water sources are protected and community values upheld,

documentation of the water sources will be constructed to conceal the true location as advised by

community leaders. Water sources identified from TNEK will be mapped to allow for a better

comprehension of the vast available water that is present on Navajo land, which can then be used

in future environmental assessments or impact studies. Environmental assessments will need to

take into consideration the impacts industrial development has on natural resources, in addition,

implementing action to protect high sensitivity water sources. This project generates a valuable

source of knowledge through reclaiming Navajo place names, preserving TNEK, and building

resilient ecological communities on Navajo land in the face of a changing climate.

PRISM precipitation data related to stream runoff in northern New Mexico

in an effort to improve focused recharge estimates within PyRANA

Sarah Reuter

sarah.reuter@student.nmt.edu

Daniel Cadol

Associate Professor, Earth and Environmental Science

Daniel.cadol@nmt.edu

Fred Phillips

Emeritus Professor of Hydrology, Earth and Environmental Science

fred.phillips@nmt.edu

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology,

Socorro, New Mexico 87801

Abstract 14

Groundwater is a crucial source of water for most of New Mexico, therefore understanding the

rate and distribution of recharge to aquifers is crucial for sustainable development. The PyRANA (Python

Recharge Assessment for New Mexico Aquifers) model was designed to estimate aquifer recharge by

tracking the soil-water balance through time over the entire state. The main inputs are daily gridded

precipitation data (PRISM), reference evapotranspiration (GADGET), and soil data. However, previous

versions neglected focused recharge, which is an important contribution to groundwater recharge. Xu

(2018) used a rainfall/runoff data set from Walnut Gulch, AZ to create a stochastic runoff generation

algorithm, enabling the model to incorporate both diffuse recharge and transmission losses in first order

and higher order basins. She also used rain gauge data to systematically adjust PRISM daily rainfall

amounts. However, the factors influencing runoff in semiarid grass- and shrublands are different than

those in wooded mountainous terrains. We have performed a similar analysis using rainfall and runoff

data sets from the Santa Fe area and the Valles Caldera, and observed distinct differences from Walnut

Gulch. All three mountainous basins analyzed exhibited clear relationships between rainfall and runoff

with very similar slopes. The relationships for the three mountainous basins resembled each other much

more than they resembled that of the Walnut Gulch area. And the systematic difference between PRISM

and gauge data is somewhat different in the two regions. In the Walnut Gulch area, rainfall intensity is

influential in runoff-generation process, but it appears to be much less influential in mountainous areas of

northern New Mexico. These results support the hypothesis that two distinct rainfall/runoff relationships

are required to reliably track soil moisture in these widely differing climate/vegetation zones.

U.S. Geological Survey Upper Rio Grande Basin Focus Area Study:

An Integrated Assessment of Water-Resource Status and Trends

M.S. Johnson, USGS, New Mexico Water Science Center

6700 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

msjohnson@usgs.gov, (505) 830-7933

K.R. Douglas-Mankin, USDA, Agricultural Research Service

kyle.douglas-mankin@ars.usda.gov

C.A. Rumsey, USGS, Utah Water Science Center, crumsey@usgs.gov

USGS, Colorado Water Science Center

T.I. Ivahnenko, ivahnenk@usgs.gov, G.A. Sexstone, sexstone@usgs.gov

USGS, Texas Water Science Center

N. A. Houston, nhouston@usgs.gov, L. Foster, lfoster@usgs.gov

J.V. Thomas, jvthomas@usgs.gov, D.E. Pedraza, dpedraza@usgs.gov

T. Welborn, tlwelbor@usgs.gov

USGS, New Mexico Water Science Center

S.B. Chavarria, schavar@usgs.gov, C.D. Moeser, cmoeser@usgs.gov

A.K. Flickinger, aflickinger@usgs.gov, A.E. Galanter, agalanter@usgs.gov

USGS, Earth Resources Observation & Science (EROS) Center

G.B. Senay, senay@usgs.gov

USGS, Rocky Mountain Region

P.M. Lambert, plambert@usgs.gov

Abstract 15

Water resources of the Upper Rio Grande Basin (URGB) support a population of over 800,000

people in New Mexico, including 20 of 23 Tribes and Pueblos in the state. This study provides a

comprehensive assessment of the spatial distribution and temporal trends of selected water-budget

components (snowpack, groundwater storage, streamflow, evapotranspiration) and integrated

products (watershed modeling, water availability and use) in the URGB over the past three decades.

Spatially distributed snow modeling used to simulate snowpack processes highlighted snow water

equivalent changes over the period 1984–2017, with widespread variability across elevation zones

and land cover types. Groundwater-level data and groundwater-flow models were used to determine

groundwater-level trends and estimate groundwater storage changes in select URGB alluvial

groundwater basins for the period 1980-2015. A watershed model was calibrated for nine near-native

subbasins and model parameters were translated to the remaining URGB subbasins to simulate

naturalized flows. Historical streamflow changes were quantified by comparison of simulated

naturalized flows to observed Rio Grande flows. Conductivity mass-balance hydrograph separations

found baseflow during 1980-2015 ranged from 29 to 69% (49% average) of total streamflow at 17

sites upstream of Albuquerque, NM. Actual evapotranspiration (ET) data demonstrated that all

URGB land-cover types had significant decreasing trends in ET ranging from -14 to -80 mm/decade

for the period 1986-2015. Decreasing precipitation and other hydrologic trends over the past three

decades suggest that decreasing actual ET may be related to decreasing water availability, with

implications for Tribes, Pueblos, and all others dependent on URGB water resources.

Rio Grande: Lobatos to Elephant Butte Basin Study

Andrew Gelderloos

US Bureau of Reclamation

agelderloos@usbr.gov

Dagmar Llewellyn

US Bureau of Reclamation

dllewellyn@usbr.gov

Emma Kelly

US Bureau of Reclamation

ekelly@usbr.gov

Anne Marken

Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District

anne@mrgcd.us

Abstract 16

The US Bureau of Reclamation’s (Reclamation) Basin Studies are collaborative studies, cost-shared with

non-Federal partners, to evaluate water supply and demand and help ensure reliable water supplies by

identifying strategies to address imbalances in water supply and demand. Each study includes four key

elements:

State-of-the-art projections of future supply and demand by river basin.

An analysis of how the basin’s existing water and power operations and infrastructure will

perform in the face of changing water realities.

Development of strategies to meet current and future water demands.

A trade-off analysis of strategies identified.

Work on the Rio Grande: Lobatos to Elephant Butte Basin Study (Study) is set to formally begin with the

signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between all its partners. In preparation, Reclamation, through

collaboration with the US Geological Survey, has been calibrating a hydrologic model and updating

down-scaled climate projections that will be used to drive the state-of-the-art projections of future supply

and demand.

As an example of the projections and calibrated models that we will use, we present preliminary Study

projections for Reclamation’s San Juan-Chama (SJC) Project up to the year 2099. The SJC Project, as of

1999, has been estimated to have a firm yield of 96,200 acre feet per year and has never experienced a

shortage since it began in 1971. In the past 20 years, cities in the Rio Grande Valley have begun to

augment local supplies with direct diversion of SJC Project water, making the reliability of these supplies

ever more important.

Water Resource Assessment of the Rio San Jose basin, West-Central New Mexico

Shaleene Chavarria1, Andre Ritchie2, Amy Galanter3, Allison Flickinger4, Andrew Robertson

1schavar@usgs.gov, 2abritchie@usgs.gov, 3agalanter@usgs.gov , 4aflickinger@usgs.gov,

5ajrobert@usgs.gov

U.S. Geological Survey, New Mexico Water Science Center

Abstract 17

The Rio San Jose basin (Basin) in west-central New Mexico has a complex history of water

supply, that includes domestic, agricultural, tribal, and mining uses. The Pueblos of Acoma and

Laguna are reliant on the water resources of the Basin, and their water rights are currently under

adjudication. The U.S. Geological Survey is conducting a water-resource assessment and

creating an integrated groundwater and surface-water model which can serve as a tool to

negotiate and implement settlements as part of the priorities outlined by the Secretary of the

Department of the Interior’s Indian Water Rights Office. The assessment conceptualizes the

hydrogeologic framework and water resources of the Basin through the compilation of data and

uses the information to develop and calibrate a coupled Groundwater and Surface-water FLOW

(GSFLOW) model. A digital three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model includes 18

stratigraphic units that were generalized to an 8-layer integrated hydrologic model. An inventory

of groundwater wells, springs, and streamgages, along with water-use, water-quality, climate,

and aquifer properties data, were used in the conceptual and numerical model development and

calibration. The integrated hydrologic model is capable of providing estimates of water-budget

components such as groundwater recharge and storage, discharge to the Rio San Jose and its

tributaries, and evaporative losses. The model will be used to evaluate the regional effects of

water use in the Basin from 1944 to 2018 and can be run with climate projections to determine

the effects of future climate on water resources in the Basin.

USGS Tribal Program in New Mexico

Jeff Cordova jcordova@usgs.gov

Shaleene Chavarria chavar@usgs.gov

U.S. Geological Survey, New Mexico Water Science Center

Abstract 18

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Office of Tribal Relations (OTR), Water Mission Area and

the New Mexico Water Science Center (NM WSC) support Tribal capacity building efforts in

areas of natural resource management. The OTR supports Tribal efforts by providing funding

through the TESNAR program (Technical training in Support of Native American Relations) to

local USGS offices to conduct technical training and provide technical information. TESNAR

funding has been used by the NM WSC to provide technical training to several Pueblos and the

Navajo Nation. Trainings included surface-water data collection methods covering streamgaging,

rainfall monitoring, basic surveying, and using Aquarius software to process time-series data. In

2017, the TESNAR funds were used to train personnel from Cochiti Pueblo, and in 2018 training

was provided to Tesuque, Nambe, and Taos Pueblos and the Navajo Nation. The NM WSC is

also conducting an interpretive study to support Native American water rights in the Rio San

Jose Basin in cooperation with the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna. In December 2017, the NM

WSC hosted the first annual tribal meeting in which representatives from 13 Pueblos and the

Navajo Nation attended. At the meeting Tribal representatives learned about the USGS data-

collection policy, current projects of interest, and USGS scientific capabilities. Through

National-level programs and local offices, the USGS encourages the formation of tribal

partnerships and demonstrates the importance of standard methods for data collection. Future

training with funding from USGS programs may be used to support Tribal water-resources

management, and implementation of water rights settlements.

Efficacy of Sodium Chloride in the Fabrication and Strength of Bentonite Clay

Pellets for Uranium Removal in Drinking Water

Joshua Herrera

joshherr@nmsu.edu

Jeremy Jones

odinseye@nmsu.edu

Dr. Antonio S. Lara

alara@nmsu.edu

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University,

Las Cruces, NM 88003

Abstract 19

Uranium contamination in drinking water is a worldwide problem and is ongoing in the Navajo

Nation. Conventional methods to clean water, such as reverse osmosis, are impractical because

they are expensive and resource intensive. Clays lack these detriments while being ubiquitous

and simple to implement. It is well known that clays abate heavy metals from contaminated

water, but muddy suspensions are difficult to manage. Thus, we focus on production of

manageable, robust clay ceramic pellets. Not all clays make robust pellets though; thus, it is

paramount to understand what parameters affect robustness. For example, pellet fabrication

using bentonite clay is problematic, often resulting in fractured and non-uniform pellets. Initially,

we hypothesized this to be caused by the clay’s high sodium content relative to other robust

clays. To test this hypothesis, we exposed the clay to a sodium chloride solution and studied the

effects on the pellet fabrication process (casting, dehydrating, firing) as well as the resulting

compressive strength. Contrary to our hypothesis, the addition of sodium chloride significantly

reduced the problematic nature of the clay and the resulting pellets were very uniform. Their

compressive strengths, however, were either slightly raised or lowered depending on the

dehydration technique used. The effects on uranium sorption will be the major factor in

determining whether these variances in compressive strength are worth the ease in fabrication. If

so, then this method to deal with problematic clays can be used around the world to remediate

polluted water worldwide, regardless of surrounding clays.

This research was supported by New Mexico State Legislature NMWRRI2018-19, administered

by the New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute; National Institutes of General Medical

Health MBRS R25GM061222.

Turfgrass Plant Water Status Influence on Herbicide Phytotoxicity and Efficacy

Ryan Goss- Associate Professor at New Mexico State University

ryangoss@nmsu.edu

Jackson Powers- Graduate Student at New Mexico State University

powers13@nmsu.edu

Abstract 20

Water management is one of the most pressing issues turfgrass managers face in the arid regions of the

world and periodically in temperate regions. In response to reduced water supplies, governments enacted

policies that restrict potable water use for non-essential uses. Although turfgrass managers are generally

well-adapted in reducing water consumption and showcasing their water conservation efforts, additional

water restrictions will continue to limit turfgrass water use in the future. These reduced water conditions

will limit the environmental benefits turfgrass provides like soil erosion reduction, increased oxygen

production, ambient temperature reduction, and providing low cost playing surfaces. Herbicides are the

primary management practice to reduce difficult to control weeds in turfgrass stands. However, under

reduced water statuses, herbicide efficacy can be reduced as the plant is not able to perform normal

physiological functions. The objectives of this research are to 1) the severity of herbicide turfgrass

phytotoxicity at differing water statuses and 2) if these differing turfgrass water statuses effect herbicide

efficacy.

These objectives will be met by performing field and greenhouse experiments judging turfgrass quality

after herbicide treatments applied following a period of drought. Drought conditions will be created in the

field experiment by using a Linear Gradient Irrigation System (LGIS), and in the greenhouse experiment

pots will be exposed to four decreasing evapotranspiration (ET) levels. Data from the first run of the

greenhouse and field experiment will be presented at the conference.

Ethnographic Assessment of Agricultural Groundwater Use along the New

Mexico/Chihuahua Border

Holly Brause

New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute hbrause@nmsu.edu

Abstract 21

Despite the fact that surface water resources that are shared across state and national borders

have long been governed through formal, legally binding agreements, there are no corresponding

rules for shared groundwater resources. In the absence of formal policies that govern the use of

shared groundwater resources through legal frameworks, this projects asks: What are the existing

social, political, cultural, and economic frameworks that shape the use of shared groundwater in

practice at the US/Mexico border? This project uses detailed ethnographic research on rural and

agricultural water use, interviews with water users and managers, and document analysis on both

sides of the US/Mexico border to examine water use practices and the political, social, and

economic forces that shape such practices. By examining this cross-border field site as a single

hydrosocial territory, this analysis is well positioned to identify the effects of two distinct

national water regimes on a shared resource, as well as identify other important relationships of

power.

This project is part of the Transboundary Aquifer Assessment Program, a congressionally

authorized research collaboration between water research institutions in Arizona, New Mexico,

Texas, the US Geological Survey, the International Boundary and Water Commission, and

Mexican counterparts. This research aims to engage stakeholders and establish collaborative

working relationships with agricultural water users on both sides of the U.S/Mexico border in

areas that draw from the Mesilla Bolson/Conejos-Médanos Aquifer in particular.

Witnessing Watersheds: A multimodal approach for river

research and communication

Emma Brinley Buckley

brinleybuckleyem@unk.edu

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Mary Harner

harnermj@unk.edu

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Abstract 22

Rivers are the arteries of our planet, transporting water and energy to sustain aquatic and

terrestrial life, including humans. As interconnected systems, they reflect landscape

modifications and are profoundly influenced by human activities and ecological change. Through

application of digital technologies that support monitoring and visualization of ecosystem

dynamics, we aim to further understanding and communication about river systems. Our research

highlights ecological themes within and across three river systems, with a focus on the Central

Platte in Nebraska, and the Middle Rio Grande and Upper Gila in New Mexico. While the

landscape, management, culture, and scale may differ among watersheds, these rivers are

embedded in their communities and are of economic, cultural, aesthetic, ecological, and

recreational value. They all support diverse human and natural systems that face on-going

challenges, as well as opportunities for consensus-oriented approaches, in future management.

We are developing content, methodologies, and strategies to communicate river system

dynamics to public audiences, drawing upon multimodal digital technologies to obtain, analyze,

and convey ecological data in a variety of forms. We use geographic information systems, time-

lapse imagery, repeat photography, and sound recordings, as well as additional tools, to capture

change at a range of scales across time and space. Overall, we seek to provide opportunities for

people to connect to rivers and to further understanding of these coupled human-ecological

systems.

Irrigation efficiency paradox’s implications in regional groundwater resilience

Yining Bai1, Saeed Langarudi2, Alexander “Sam” Fernald1

1 New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute, New Mexico State University

ynb@nmsu.edu

2 Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University

lang@nmsu.edu

3 Department of Animal and Range Sciences & New Mexico Water Resources Research

Institute, New Mexico State University

afernald@nmsu.edu

Abstract 23

Increasing pressure is being put upon available surface water and groundwater resources to support

the demands of population growth, the desire for a higher standard of living, and climate change

in many regions. Increased irrigation efficiency is a potential solution to rising water demands in

many regions as irrigated agriculture represents the vast majority of consumptive losses of water

worldwide. An integrated model presented here was built for the Lower Rio Grande Region in

New Mexico, which included water, irrigated land, capital, and population modules to explore

hydrologic and economic results of management scenarios that would promote IE. Results

revealed that a high IE does not necessarily improve the resilience of the hydrologic system when

surface water and groundwater, or upstream and downstream, connectivity is considered. Popular

and well-intentioned water conservation and management policies, which do not include regional-

scale water accounting, may lead to unintended consequences if policy-makers do not account for

emerging or overdue needs for the ecosystem and urban development. A higher dependency upon

groundwater during prolonged drought combined with higher irrigation efficiency practices could

result in the mining of groundwater, damage to the aquifer, and reduced downstream deliveries.

Additionally, results suggest that well-intended irrigation policies may not be economically and

environmentally feasible. Before making water policy decisions to invest in improving irrigation

efficiency (IE), a comprehensive assessment is necessary, which will include non-consumptive

values of irrigation at the regional scale as well as regional hydrological conditions, particularly

surface water and groundwater connectivity.

Sacred Water and the Promise of Respect –based Environmental Paradigms

Michelle Schmidt and Kristin Waldo

Eastern New Mexico University

Abstract 24

My research with community members of the Maya Mountains Reservation (MMR) in Southern

Belize has familiarized me with a paradigm of human-environmental relations based on the

principle of respect (tzik in Mopan Maya). Rooted in pre-Columbian Maya society and animistic

religious cosmology, this paradigm emphasizes water as a sacred and animated force with which

humanity must respectfully coexist or face consequences.

Oral history and archaeological evidence demonstrate that Maya societies have a long (c2800

year) history of advanced systems of water use through aqueducts, cisterns, and irrigation that

has continued into the present. Nevertheless, Maya environmental paradigms are often

downplayed in interactions with (inter)national agents of development and even environmental

organizations as relics of an idealized past. Rooted in modernist, human-agency centered models

of resource management, these Western (colonial) paradigms limit the dialog on water use to

conservationist and preservationist perspectives that reinforce rationalized views of water as a

calculable and controllable commodity-object rather than a subject in a complex system of

respectful relations.

As MMR communities develop local water purification systems and grapple with problems of

pollution and anthropogenic climate change, regional, community, and household conversations

about water center on how to maintain respectful interactions with water while participating in

economic and political development. Through sustained political activism and cultural revival,

MMR communities continue to articulate neo-traditional, respect-based environmental

paradigms that have the potential to transform human-environmental relationships and build a

more just and sustainable future.

Surface Area of a Local Clay Material to Elucidate Uranium Abatement for Potable

New Mexico Water Management

Moticha Franklin

moticha@nmsu.edu

Jeremy Jones

odinseye@nmsu.edu

Dr. Antonio Lara

alara@nmsu.edu

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM,

88003

Abstract 25

As a result of uranium mining activities in New Mexico, a large amount of the existing water

sources are contaminated, thus harming people, especially the Navajo. Exposure to high levels of

uranium causes elevated risks for numerous cancers, renal disease, as well as a developmental

disorder named after the afflicted in the region, ‘Navajo Neuropathy'. Technologies such as

reverse osmosis are not appropriate for the region. An appropriate solution is needed -

inexpensive, simple and readily available materials. Clays are the answer. Due to their cation

exchange capabilities, clays bind and sequester heavy metals in water. However, muddy

suspensions are difficult to manage; for this reason clay pellets were fabricated to maintain

structural integrity. The capacity for clays to sorb heavy metals is directly related to the surface

area of the clay. We hypothesize that clay pellets, relative to clay powder decreases surface area.

A Gallup, NM clay was used because the location is juxtaposed to a uranium affected area in

New Mexico. The ASAP 2050 Extended Pressure Adsorption Analyzer was used with nitrogen

(N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) sorbents to determine surface area of the Gallup clay in its

different forms. Bauer Emmett Teller measurements follow: N2 sorbent (powder 62 m2/g, pellets

37 m 2/g) and CO2 sorbent (powder 46 m2/g, pellet 23 m2/g). The reduction of surface area

hypothesis was true. Even though surface area is reduced, the resulting surface area is more than

adequate. The pellet manageability with respect to surface area is a desirable trade-off.

This research was supported by New Mexico State Legislature NMWRRI2018-19, administered

by the New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute; National Institutes of General Medical

Health MBRS R25GM061222; National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of

Agriculture “Wheels of Change Grant” Award number 2015-38422-24112 and Water Resources

Research Institute FY19 Student Water Research Grant NMWRRI-SG-2019.

Modeling Water Movement in a Drip Irrigated Pecan Orchard in the Mesilla Valley

Jorge L. Preciado *1, Alexander “Sam” Fernald*2, Richard Heerema*3

*1 preciado@nmsu.edu

*2 afernald@nmsu.edu

NM Water Resources Research Institute

New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003

*3 rjheerem@nmsu.edu

Plant and environmental Science Department

New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003

Abstract 26

Water balance is important to provide information and to conserve water. The water balance

equation consist of various components related to soil, plant, and atmosphere (Shukla, 2014). The

flow of water in the system can be used to help and manage water supply and changes in

management can increase water productivity in arid regions. For this study the soil water content

was measured from one soil column within the orchard using time domain reflectometry (TDR)

probes (CS655 12cm, Campbell scientific), installed at different depths in the root zone of pecans

and stored measurements in a Campbell Scientific data logger CR300. These sensors will account

for water storage in the soil though the root zone of the trees. Water that passes the root zone will

be considered deep percolation.

This study estimates recharge and model water flow through the soil in a drip irrigated pecan

orchard to better understand surface water/groundwater interactions for improved river basin water

management and quantifies water stored in the soil and lost through evapotranspiration. At the end

of the research is expected to have a better estimate of the water that is consumed by the pecans

and the amount of water that is percolating. Therefore, have a better quantification of the water

that is used in agriculture and the water that percolates to recharge the basin. Better control of the

water applied to the pecan orchards, would create better agricultural practices, therefore achieve

higher water sustainability within the basin and help decision maker have a better control on the

new pecan plantations.

Characterization of Grapevine Water Use in Central New Mexico

Giese, Gill1 ggiese@nmsu.edu, L. Quintana1 ludimq@hotmail.com, C. Velasco-Cruz1

cvelasco@nmsu.edu, and M. Kersten1,2 mkersten@nmsu.edu

1Department of Extension Plant Sciences, P.O. Box 30003, MSC 3AE, New Mexico State

University, Las Cruces, NM 88003 2Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology and Weed Science, P.O. 30003 MSC 3BE, New

Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003.

Abstract 27

An exploratory study was initiated to measurement and calculate the seasonal water requirement

of the Vitis vinifera winegrape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir, grown in

central New Mexico, United States. Although it is established that wine grape growers can more

efficiently manage their irrigation systems and the amount of water applied to grapes once the

grapevine’s water requirement for a desired fruit composition and yield level is known, this has

not been verified/accomplished within New Mexico. Various parameters were tracked over the

growing season at the study vineyard: climate, evapotranspiration, plant water potential and

volumetric soil moisture. Vine stem water potential and volumetric soil moisture were correlated

based on periodic measurement of each parameter over a 12-month period. The crop coefficient

(Kc) based on area shaded by the vine canopy was determined to estimate the evapotranspiration

(ETc) and calculate the vine’s water requirement on a weekly basis. This was done mid-season

when the vine canopy was determined to be at its greatest density and size. Estimated weekly water

use of Pinot meunier was approximately 13.97 gal/vine (based on vine density of 1361 vines per

acre) or 19,014 gal/acre over that seven day period. This was ~9% greater than water use by the

Chardonnay variety (12.77 gal/vine, 17,380 gal/ac) and ~23% greater than that of Pinot noir

(10.77gal/vine, 14,658 gal/ac) over the same period. The study will be repeated in 2020 with more

replications.

A Perfect Match: The Sacred Brackish Water and The Worthy Red Seaweed

Joseph Gonzales

jrgonzalesjr@gmail.com Santa Fe Community College

Abstract 28

The effect of greenhouse gases on global climate change is indeed a crisis and undeniable. Methane

is one of those greenhouse gasses and it’s levels on earth are the highest that they have been in

five-hundred thousand years. Much of these methane levels are due to the 1.8 billion cows on

earth. Cattle are responsible for a full 18% of the world’s human related greenhouse gases, or 10%

of human related greenhouse gas-emissions. Recently, researchers have discovered that

supplementing cattle feed with just a 1% fortification of Asparagopsis taxiformis added to their

diet yielded a 60% reduction of methane production in live test subjects. In order not to squander

these potential substantial reductions in greenhouse emissions it is imperative that we not offset

these gains by shipping Asparagopsis taxiformis from the tropical/sub-tropical waters in which it

thrives. Fortunately, New Mexico’s brackish water coupled with controlled environment

agriculture offer a fertile breeding ground to innovate and lead the way in inland cultivation of

Asparagopsis taxiformis.

A diet study of freshwater turtles in southeastern New Mexico using stable isotope

analyses

Vinicius Ortega-Berno; Eastern New Mexico University. Department of Biology, Portales NM

88130; vinicius.ortegaberno@enmu.edu

Thanchira Suriyamongkol (presenter); Eastern New Mexico University. Department of Biology,

Portales NM 88130; thanchira.suriyamongkol@enmu.edu

Ivana Mali; Eastern New Mexico University. Department of Biology, Portales NM 88130;

ivana.mali@enmu.edu

Abstract 29

Freshwater turtles are an important component of aquatic ecological processes. Dietary habits

reveal their roles in nutrient cycling, food web system, and seed dispersal. Pecos River and its

tributaries are major aquatic ecosystems in New Mexico, which house the majority of aquatic

turtle species that occur in the state, including the state threatened Rio Grande Cooter

(Pseudemys gorzugi). Studying turtle diets can enhance our understanding of their feeding

ecology, trophic level, potential competition, and dietary niche overlap among species. Dietary

habits have been studied using a variety of techniques such as stomach flushing, stomach

dissection and fecal collection; however, these techniques are used to gather information about

recently consumed prey. Stable isotope analyses of carbon and nitrogen can be used to assess a

species’ diets on a border spectrum. In this study, we used stable isotope analyses to assess the

diets of freshwater turtle species in southeastern New Mexico. Our preliminary results showed

higher δ15N values in certain classes of the Rio Grande Cooter, previously assumed to be strictly

herbivorous as adults. The δ13C values mainly represented plants that use C3 photosynthetic

pathways, but the values also varied among sites. We observed differences in trophic levels in

Rio Grande Cooters caught at different localities. Therefore, we speculate that different dietary

habits may be related to the habitat characteristics. The final results of this ongoing project will

provide new insights on the trophic relationships and niche overlap between Rio Grande Cooters

and other co-inhabitants of the Pecos River tributaries.

Investigations of sources of trace elements of concern in the San Juan River

Johanna M. Blake, Jeb E. Brown, and Zachary Shephard

U.S. Geological Survey, New Mexico Water Science Center

Abstract 30

Trace elements attached to suspended sediments or dissolved in river water pose a potential

health risk to communities that depend on that water for agricultural and domestic uses.

Exceedances of Navajo Nation surface-water-quality standards for trace elements (especially

lead and arsenic) indicate that communities on the Navajo Nation along the San Juan River are

exposed to this potential risk. Sources for these trace elements and metals within the basin

include legacy mining sites, natural deposits, agriculture practices, oil and gas production, illegal

dumping, urban sources, and other environmental sources. Understanding the contribution from

each source can help the Navajo Nation act, where possible, to improve San Juan River water

quality and reduce the potential health risk to these communities. The objective of this work is

to identify the sources of trace elements of concern to the San Juan River in the reach flowing

through the Navajo Nation, and to quantify the annual contribution from each source.

The U.S. Geological Survey will work with the Navajo Nation to collect, analyze and

interpret geochemical data from area geology, water, and sediment in the San Juan River and

its tributaries. In addition, discharge and suspended sediment concentrations will be

quantified. Arroyos that are tributaries to the San Juan River in specific areas of interest

were selected through discussion with Navajo Nation EPA. Geologic formations, sediments,

and water will be analyzed for major and trace elements such as aluminum, iron, manganese,

lead, arsenic, total organic carbon, and isotopes including lead, strontium, copper, and

uranium.

Groundwater level and storage changes across New Mexico from the 1950s to 2010s

Alex J. Rinehart1, Ethan Mamer2, Geoffrey Rawling2, Trevor Kludt2, and Brigitte Felix2

1 Earth and Environmental Science Department, New Mexico Tech, Socorro, NM

2 New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, New Mexico Tech, Socorro, NM

Abstract 31

Groundwater is the primary source of fresh water in most of New Mexico, but monitoring is done on a

basin-by-basin, year-to-year basis. For the first time, we found the decadal groundwater level and storage

changes from the 1950s to the 2010s for every aquifer in New Mexico with adequate water level

monitoring. This included the basin-fill aquifers of the Rio Grande rift and Basin-and-Range, alluvial

aquifers in the Rio Puerco, Rio Chama and Pecos River valleys, aquifers of the Ogallala Formation in

eastern New Mexico, Paleozoic aquifers of southeastern New Mexico, and the Dakota Formation aquifer

underlying Union County, NM. Many aquifers had insufficient data coverage. The method restricted

analysis to the intersection of correlation lengths around the beginning- and ending-decade’s well

networks, and to the geology of interest. Confining boundaries were found in aquifers with both confined

and unconfined conditions. Groundwater level changes are found as the difference between (a) a decade

of interest’s water levels and the 1950s water levels (total difference; e.g. 1970s - 1950s), or (b) a decade-

by-decade difference (moving difference; e.g, 1970s – 1960s). Overall, groundwater levels are declining

around New Mexico. Regions of stability occur where population is low, there is a source of recharge,

and water use is low. Declines are the largest where water use is uncontrolled, there is no recharge, and

there is a moderate population. Stable groundwater storage occurs when conscious water management and

recharge co-exist; without one or the other, water levels generally decline.

Possible groundwater connection between Española and Albuquerque basins

through preserved Santa Fe Group deposits revealed at Peña Blanca and La

Cienega, NM.

Alex J. Rinehart1 and Ethan Mamer2

1 Earth and Environmental Science Department, New Mexico Tech, Socorro, NM

2 New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, New Mexico Tech, Socorro, NM

Abstract 32

The basins of the Rio Grande rift are connected by the Rio Grande but are commonly assumed to be

unconnected by groundwater. We examine a shallow groundwater connection between the southern

Española and northern Albuquerque basins, providing an example of when and how shallow groundwater

connections between rift basins may occur. The accommodation zones between rift basins are

geologically complicated and form the structural highs between the basins. The boundary between the

Española and Albuquerque basins is a horst capped by the Cerros del Rio volcanic field, which consists of

mafic volcanic vents and flows that cover Santa Fe Group sediments. La Cienega and Peña Blanca, NM

are immediately to the east and west of this structural high in the Española and Albuquerque basins.

Because of water supply and drainage concerns, the hydrogeology of these communities have been

studied in detail. Due to lack of well coverage and springs, little is known about the subsurface in the

transition zone. However, just to the north of the springs of La Cienega, westward flow from the Santa Fe

river toward the Albuquerque basin has been proposed. In the Peña Blanca region, there is an east-to-west

gradient of groundwater flow that was proposed to be from the Santa Fe river. By compiling water table

elevation maps, major ion chemistry and stable isotopes from both regions, we show that there is a

hydrologic connection through the Santa Fe Group sediments of the structural divide between the

Española and Albuquerque basins.

Multi-spatial resolution comparison of evapotranspiration

Robert Sabie

NM WRRI

rpsabie@nmsu.edu

Salim Bawazir

Department of Civil Engineering, New Mexico State University

abawazir@nmsu.edu

Michaela Buenemann

Department of Geography, New Mexico State University

elabuen@nmsu.edu

Sam Fernald

NM WRRI

Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University

afernald@nmsu.edu

Abstract 33

The need for finer spatial and temporal resolution information on field scale agricultural

evapotranspiration (ET), or consumptive water use, is necessary to improve water management

because of growing demand for water and changes in the timing and quantity of water from

mountain snow runoff. Traditionally, ET measurements have been either representative of a

small spatial extent and high temporal recurrence (field) or large spatial extents and lower

temporal recurrence (satellite). Neither of these two methods addresses management decisions at

the field scale. A potential solution is the use of a crewed aircraft or a small Unoccupied Aerial

System (sUAS), with multispectral and thermal sensors that facilitate ET measurements. This

study compares and assesses the congruency of ET estimates obtained using field, sUAS,

aircraft, and satellite data taken at the same time over an alfalfa field in the Mesilla Valley, New

Mexico. The suite of sensors on the sUAS and airplane allows for both crop-coefficient and

surface energy balance type models to be employed. Visual analysis of preliminary results

indicate the spatial patterns of ET from sUAS, aircraft, and satellite data match observed field

conditions. Future work will focus on the calibration of the sensors to calculate daily crop ET

using FAO-56 methods.

Telemetry monitoring of acequia networks for communities in the Rio Hondo valley

Lily Conrad, NMSU MS student conradl@nmsu.edu

Sam Fernald, NM WRRI director and NMSU professor afernald@nmsu.edu

Abstract 34

Commonly, complex water sharing agreements in acequia irrigation communities of northern

New Mexico are based on water data gathered irregularly by local water managers. The Rio

Hondo watershed in northern New Mexico is experiencing drought-induced flow reductions and

changing water sharing dynamics between the acequia networks, which rely on water from the

same river. These changes in surface water availability and water sharing agreements resulted in

local water managers expressing a need for available data to appropriately distribute water

between involved parties. Water plays a vital role in the fabric of the Rio Hondo communities.

Besides delivering water to irrigators, acequia water distribution is highly valuable by fostering

significant attachment of community members to the acequia irrigated landscape. Due to the

importance of water to the healthy social fabric of acequia communities, improving water

management will likely also promote acequia society health. This project addresses the role of

improved water data accessibility in water management and community social indicators.

This study is the beginning of giving the community the capacity to become stewards for water

data by having real-time access to stage, flow, water temperature, and flow forecasting through a

web interface. The installation of telemetry sites considers community input to produce relevant

data that are directly applicable to the Rio Hondo shareholders. Social impact of the telemetry

system will be evaluated with surveys targeting dispute avoidance, reduction, and resolution.

With this information, we expect the community and acequia commissioners will be more

prepared to allocate water during low-flow periods and that the telemetry system will cultivate

healthy inter-acequia collaboration (Ellison et al., 2019). We hope this study will serve as

leverage for the local communities of the Rio Hondo valley to implement their own telemetry

monitoring system and cultivate long-term water data transparency for the valley’s water

managers and users.

Fire and its impact on water and water infrastructure:

An all-hands approach to an all-human need

Jared Daniels

jared.daniels@chamapeak.org

jdaniels@usbr.gov

AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer with the Chama Peak Land Alliance

and San Juan - Chama Watershed Partnership

Abstract 35

Humans have mapped their landscapes into all sorts of cultural, political, and management jurisdictions.

Man-made water infrastructure is designed to adhere to such jurisdictional borders, although the natural path

of water does not, nor does the natural path of fire. There are many natural, and therefore border-ignoring

drivers that promote the free-roaming aspect of fire, from wind speed and direction, to topography, to

vegetation type and density. Fire breaks serve to do little if they do not cross jurisdictional boundaries,

therefore, for example, allowing neighboring untreated landscapes to provide a path for ingress of fires into

new forests. Jurisdictional boundaries also put red-tape in the way of effective fire mitigation.

An attitude of fire mitigation and suppression as the only acceptable response to forest fire from

the time of Spanish settlement on, has changed landscape and plant-life in the absence of what

was once a natural and reoccurring event. Unfortunately, this has led to situations in which

naturally ignited fires have enough fuel supplied to them to pose far more risk to life, property,

and infrastructure than ever before.

As natural ignitions and fire movement on the landscape pay no heed to borders of human

systems, it is in the best interests of human populations to work together to keep water

infrastructure safe and restore the landscape to a more fire-adapted condition. The complexity

of fire movement on the landscape deserves a cross-jurisdictional mindset that invites all

populations and their resources to unite in protecting our lands, forests, and water.

Estimating Groundwater Recharge in Alfalfa Fields of the Mesilla Valley, New

Mexico with Actual Evapotranspiration Measurements

Authors: Kevin Boyko1, Dr. Salim Bawazir2, Dr. Alexander Fernald3

1) Research Assistant New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute, New Mexico State

University

kboyko@nmsu.edu

2) Associate Professor, Civil Engineering, New Mexico State University

abawazir@nmsu.edu

3) Professor of College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences, New Mexico State

University; Director, New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute

afernald@nmsu.edu

Abstract 36

Increasing demand for groundwater due to prolonged drought in conjunction with less surface water

available for irrigation is causing farmers to pump groundwater from their personal wells to meet crop

irrigation needs. Quantifying groundwater recharge (deep percolation) induced by current flood irrigation

practices is necessary for efficient and sustainable groundwater resources management in the Mesilla

Valley, New Mexico. Recharge beneath flood irrigated fields is not well understood and is difficult to

measure. Studies have quantified recharge through modeling or as a residual in the water balance method

(WBM) by measuring soil moisture and weather parameters, and estimating evapotranspiration (ET). This

study measured all parameters of the WBM in 2017 to estimate recharge in three alfalfa fields of different

sizes, crop age, and soil texture. The ET was measured using the energy budget method and utilizing eddy

covariance technique. Alfalfa, driven by the beef and dairy industry, is one the major crops grown in the

valley and the highest valued crop in New Mexico in 2017 as reported by USDA-NAS.

Recharge in alfalfa was estimated to range from 636 to 708 mm. There were no significant statistical

differences between recharge of the three alfalfa fields (f-ratio of 0.7358 with a p-value of 0.49 using an

ANOVA test). Ratios of 38% to 45% of irrigation amount contributed to recharge. On-farm irrigation

efficiency ranged 53.84% to 59.12% based on the farming irrigation practices. This study focused on

recharge in alfalfa fields, however to quantify recharge within the Mesilla Valley other crop fields will

need to be evaluated.

A Naturalistic Approach to Watershed Restoration and Flood Mitigation

Garrett Altmann- GIS Coordinator/Project Manager

Santa Clara Pueblo, Forestry Department

galtmann@santaclarapueblo.org

Abstract 37

Santa Clara Pueblo is a federally recognized Native American Tribe located on the Rio Grande

in Northern New Mexico. Since 1998, three severe wildfires have originated outside tribal

boundaries, yet have burned over 80% of Santa Clara forested lands. Compounding these

disasters, post-fire flooding devastated the Santa Clara Creek and Canyon, an area historically

relied upon for recreation, economic revenue, and spiritual sanctuary. The magnitude of these

events has resulted in Santa Clara Pueblo receiving five Presidential Disaster Declarations, as

both a direct grantee to FEMA and as a sub grantee to the State of New Mexico.

Our project area is contained within the Santa Clara Creek Watershed. Since water is regarded

as a sacred source of life, the tribe is prioritizing natural stream function in its flood mitigation

and restoration design. This includes incorporating bioengineering principles that utilize natural

materials while aiming to maximize ecosystem benefits, such as promoting habitat complexity

while providing long term resilience to future disturbances.

The intended outcome is to create a more vibrant ecosystem that will increase resiliency while

enhancing recreation opportunities and restoring the cultural value and appreciation of this

watershed. By taking a natural approach to watershed restoration and mitigation, the Tribe can

begin to restore this landscape which acts as their spiritual sanctuary, natural pharmacy, food

store, clothing store, and biology classroom.

Water Quantity and Quality Study of the Lower Santa Fe River, Santa Fe County,

NM

Ryan Mann, Jennifer Lindline

Natural Resources Management Department, Environmental Geology Program

New Mexico Highlands University; Las Vegas, NM rmann@live.nmhu.edu lindlinej@nmhu.edu

Abstract 38

The City of Santa Fe relies heavily on the Santa Fe River for its potable supply. Santa Fe’s water

refuse is treated at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and discharged back into the lower

Santa Fe River, which then flows through the historic communities of La Cienega and La Bajada

before entering Cochiti Pueblo. Outputs of the lower Santa Fe River have amplified, with increased

development, groundwater pumping, irrigation diversions, and evapotranspiration. The Santa Fe

River only reaches its confluence with the Rio Grande intermittently, its termination occurring

somewhere within Cochiti Pueblo.

Quantity and quality of the water in the Lower Santa Fe River after its discharge from the WWTP

has been monitored since November 2018 at five locations along its ~ 12 km course to the Rio

Grande. Preliminary results note a significant decrease in stream flow during the irrigation seasons

with daily discharge values averaging 10.76 ft3/s at the outfall of the WWTP to 6.27 ft3/s at the

USGS gauge above Cochiti Pueblo. Basic water quality parameters were measured biweekly with

the following value ranges: temperature: -0.1-31.3°C; pH: 7.74-9.49; conductivity: 6.33-813

uS/cm; total dissolved solids: 160-637 ppm; and salt: 0.1-0.4 ppt. Water grab samples were

collected seasonally for ion chemistry. Lower Santa Fe River water was Ca-HCO3 type during

spring runoff and Na-HCO3 type during the winter and summer seasons, likely reflecting ground

water contributions.

Biogeochemical mechanisms affecting mobility of arsenic from mine wastes on

Native American lands

Cherie L. De Vore*

Co-authors: Lucia Rodriguez-Freire+, Jorge Gonzalez-Estrella*, Eliane El Hayek*, Jose M.

Cerrato*

University of New Mexico*, New Jersey Institute of Technology+

cdevore@unm.edu

Abstract 39

Extensive abandoned mine waste sites in the western United States near tribal lands are poorly

managed. The goal of the proposed research is to reveal the biogeochemical processes affecting

the bioavailability of arsenic (As) in affected soil and water on tribal land in north-central South

Dakota. We seek to determine the concentrations and speciation of As in water and plants that

are impacted by mining legacy using aqueous speciation chemistry, spectroscopy, microscopy

and NextGen Illumina sequencing. Initial data published from my PhD work report elevated

concentrations of As in the mining source (2,040 mg/kg) and in the riverbank sediments (94-298

mg/kg) co-occurring with Fe-minerals. After reaction of As-enriched sediments in batch

experiments, organic As species measured in solution suggest that microbial methylation could

be a relevant mechanism for release. In addition, the detection of As in plant tissues grown in

mining-impacted sediment drives our investigation to better understand the role of endophytes

and natural organic matter (NOM) on the accumulation of As in culturally relevant plants used

by the community. These results aid in better understanding As mobility in biologically active

sediments, which can directly impact the community’s exposure routes. Our research serves as a

foundation to build an interdisciplinary partnership with tribal community members and other

investigators to understand the broader impacts of mining on human health and the environment.

This project also offers a unique opportunity to translate knowledge about As bioavailability to

benefit underserved tribal communities with the goal of promoting social and health equity.

Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment of the Rio Mora at the Rio Mora

National Wildlife Refuge, Mora County, NM

Johnson Adio, Jennifer Lindline, Edward Martinez, Michael Petronis

New Mexico Highlands University

jadio@livenmhu.onmicrosoft.com

Abstract 40

This study is monitoring and assessing the water quality of the Rio Mora, as the water quality in

the system sets the basis for the rest of the ecosystem health. Physicochemical parameters of

temperature, turbidity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and pH have been measured in-situ since

October 2014 via a YSI 6920 V2 Multiparameter Water Quality Sonde. So far, the results show

that water quality fluctuates seasonally. Temperature varies from very low (31°F-34°F) in the

winter, moderate (48°F-55°F) during the spring, and high (59°F-62°F) in the summer months.

Turbidity ranges from low (23-28 NTU) in the summer, moderate in the winter (160-420 NTU),

and high (>500 NTU) during the spring months when discharge is highest from snow melt.

Dissolved oxygen values are lowest (7.89-9.39 mg/L) in the summer and highest (10.81-12.26

mg/L) during the winter months. Conductivity values correlate with turbidity values; they are

lowest in the summer (0.3-0.4mS/cm) when stream flow and turbidity are low and highest in the

spring (0.6-0.7mS/cm) when stream flow and turbidity are highest. Values of pH remain relatively

constant (7.5-8.5); the slight to moderately alkaline character reflects the alkaline soils and

sedimentary rocks over which the Rio Mora flows during its broad reach. Temperature and

dissolved oxygen are inversely correlated, while stream flow and conductivity are directly

correlated. We are comparing water quality trends to stream flow, land use, and other influences

to assess if and how they affect stream health over time and to inform land management decisions

at the Refuge.

Applying Structure from Motion to sediment responses in the Middle Rio Grande

from ephemeral tributaries

Sharllyn Pimentel, New Mexico Tech, Sharllyn.Pimentel@student.nmt.edu

Dr. Daniel Cadol, New Mexico Tech, Daniel.Cadol@nmt.edu

Dr. Jonathan B. Laronne, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel, john@bgu.ac.il

Kyle Stark, New Mexico Tech, kyle.stark@student.nmt.edu

Madeline Richards, New Mexico Tech, madeline.richards@student.nmt.edu

Abstract 41

Ephemeral streams contribute to the dynamic fluvial geomorphology in perennial streams.

Further understanding the relationship between point sources of sediment from arroyos to the

Middle Rio Grande will help river managers to mitigate the effects of the river’s dynamically

shifting behavior. Arroyo-derived sediment may negatively affect the Rio Grande in many ways

(e.g. fine sediments entrainment develops sediment plugs and contributes to the filling of

Elephant Butte. Coarse sediments deposition can deflect the river’s course toward local farming

communities and infrastructure.) To address these challenges, the Arroyo del los Piños near

Socorro, NM is a heavily instrumented to automatically collect water velocity, stage, bedload

and suspended sediment data to enable sediment and water flux monitoring at the basin outlet.

The station provides an initial understanding of sediment supply from the Arroyo de los Piños to

the Rio Grande. To investigate the responses of the Rio Grande itself, Unmanned Aerial System

based remote sensing photogrammetry and Structure from Motion analyses will be applied to

before and after flood events at the mouth of the Arroyo de los Piños, and two adjacent arroyos.

The analysis will provide volume change estimates of sediment storage, bed roughness

characteristics, and surface grain size distribution of the morphological units at the confluence.

Initial hypotheses include, larger grain size fractions from the Rio Grande bedload are

temporarily stored in the arroyo mouths, coarse material from tributaries will shift the Rio

Grande towards the opposite bank and bars in the river will be coarser downstream of tributary

junctions.

Detection of Rangeland Degradation in New Mexico using Time Series

Segmentation and Residual Analysis (TSS-RESTREND)

Melakeneh G. Gedefaw a, Hatim M.E. Geli abc

a. Water Science and Management Program, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

b. New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute

c. Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

melakene@nmsu.edu

hgeli@nmsu.edu

Abstract 42

Degradation of natural ecosystems including rangelands is one of the climate impacts that affects

food production systems. These impacts can be due to natural climate variability, anthropogenic

activities, or both. Characterizing the relationships between vegetation biophysical variables such

as net primary productivity (NPP) and some climate variables including temperature and

precipitation and can be useful in managing these natural resources. The goal of this study is to

evaluate changes and detect degradation in rangelands in New Mexico. The objective is to

understand the relationship between temperature, precipitation, and Normalized Difference

Vegetation Index (NDVI). The study used NDVI as a surrogate for NPP based on Global Inventory

Monitoring and Modeling System - NDVI-3rd generation (GIMMS NDVI3g) dataset from 1982

to 2013. Precipitation and temperature data were obtained from Parameter-elevation Regressions

on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM). Time Series Segmentation and Residual Trend analysis

(TSS-RESTREND) which combines Residual Trend (RESTREND) and Breaks for Additive

Season and Trend (BFAST) was used to detect potential breakpoints. The expected output of this

research will be categorization of pixels based on productivity and direction of change. The study

will provide significant information that can be used to support monitoring and conservation

efforts of rangeland resources in New Mexico.

Keywords: TSS-RESTREND, intrannual climate variability, NDVI, degradation, rangeland

Whirlpool Hydro-Power

David Corriz – Santa Fe Community College

David.Corriz1@sfcc.edu

Abstract 43

Low-head hydropower has the potential to bring reliable baseload electricity to rural towns and

villages around the world. New Mexico’s acequias system delivers water to much of rural central

New Mexico. Recent improvements in technology have reduced the cost of building micro

hydropower systems. A new Belgian technology of a prefabricated whirlpool hydropower system

can power 60 homes for less than $100,000. The outflow of Cochiti Dam is more than 400 cubic

meters per second. 3 of these systems could provide 24/7 power to Cochiti Pueblo with plenty of

water left over to power other rural communities.

Saving Methane Emissions For Clean Water

Lucia Montoya – Santa Fe Community College

lucia.montoya@sfcc.edu

Abstract 44

New Mexico has many large groundwater basins that are too salty to utilize for consumption or

farming without cleaning it first. We can clean our unused water by building a desalination plant

next to one of our many large basins. We can also help save our atmosphere and save money by

isolating and using the methane from oil pumping sites in New Mexico to power the facility.

From there the benefits for the cleaned water are endless. Besides clean, potable water the

facility will also provide many jobs, therefore expanding our economic growth.

A bi-level multi-objective linear fractional programming for water consumption

structure optimization based on water shortage risk

Youzhi Wang, Liu Liu, Shanshan Guo, Qiong Yue, Ping Guo

Center for Agricultural Water Research in China

China Agricultural University, Beijing,10083, China

E-mail: yzwang@cau.edu.cn

Abstract 45

In this study, a framework of a bi-level multi-objective linear fractional programming (BMLFP)

approach is developed for the optimization of water consumption structure based on water

shortage risk. It incorporates linear fractional programming, multi-objective programming into

bi-level programming. The model considers the water shortage risk measured by interior-outer-

set risk assessment method, and integrates it into inexact water resources optimization model.

The complicated model not only can enhance the conventional programming method through the

interactive influence and mutual restriction between the upper- and lower-level decision

processes, and multiple objectives, but also improve the robustness of conventional

programming methods by integrating the water shortage risk. Besides, the model could achieve

the tradeoff between equality and economic benefit of system and figure out the interaction amid

water shortage risk, water allocation and objectives. It is applied to a case study to conduct water

resources management among different water users including agricultural, industrial, domestic,

and ecological sectors in the middle reaches of Heihe River Basin, northwest China. The

decision makers can find better water-allocation decision alternatives obtained from BMLFP

model according to their risk attitude to support social harmony and economic development.