San Augustin Plains Ranch water rights application

Location: Catron County near Datil

Opposing Parties: San Augustin Plains Ranch, LLC

Initiation Date: 2008

Status: On-going

Clients/Partners: Gila Conservation Coalition, ranchers

Attorneys: Bruce Frederick

Issues:

The New York-based company seeks to pump 54,000 acre-feet of water annually through thirty-seven 20” wells. The Law Center represents nearly 100 individuals and organizations in this case; our clients are concerned about the impacts of pumping on their properties, on wildlife, and on the Gila River, which is hydrologically connected to the San Augustin Plains—and which is the last undammed river in the Southwest.

The company has applied for the appropriation, but the State Engineer has not yet set a date for a public hearing.  We will keep you apprised of this case as it continues.

Latest News:

06/01/2010 - Those protesting the application by Augustin Plains Ranch LLC have until June 28th to pay a $25 fee to the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer to be involved in the matter.