Acequias are an important part of both the economic and social functions of the Rio Chama. Acequias have been present along the river since the 1600’s. In the lower section of the river below Abiquiu Dam, the mainstream river is diverted by eighteen community acequias for about twenty-eight miles before reaching the confluence with the Rio Grande at Chamita (Markwell, 2016). These acequias hold pre-1907 water rights. [Acequia’s] form barriers to movement, define individual landholdings, are a nexus for community activities, and indeed act as a mean for self-identification by communities large and small throughout [New Mexico]. It seems almost self-evident to conclude that irrigation systems constitute the backbone of the cultural landscape that has emerged in New Mexico (Ackerly, 1996).
What are Acequias?
Gravity- fed irrigation ditches in the northern area of New Mexico.
Used for cultivation of locally grown food.
Allows water into local aquifers.
Acequias are also a social system that connects community, food, and culture.
Figure: Lower Rio Chama acequias and diversion structures.
This table contains information of the parts of the Rio Chama and the acequias that are existent in those areas in the lower Chama. (This table was created by Fatima Quraishi ).
This figure contains information of the different acequias and their priority dates.