Outfall Control Structures (OCS)
The OCS pilot programs are directed at the Rio Grande and District facilities that return unused irrigation water to the river. Several groundwater drains, and wasteway channels (ends of canals) are being re-engineered to provide ecological benefits to the Bosque and habitat for endangered species. These return channels have long been an important source of water to the Rio Grande and associated wildlife, especially during drier and low flow periods. Through the addition of modern control structures, and specific operational plans, they will be made into automated return flow features within our system. The intent of OCS is that as the District delivers water to irrigators, we may also address some critical needs of riverine habitat and species, with little or no additional water cost to our constituents. For 2020 the District plans to conduct monitoring and surveying at six outfall locations between Isleta Pueblo and the Rio Puerco confluence. Following baseline data collection and construction of necessary OCS infrastructure, habitat enhancement will take place at these locations as needed.
Latest News
Spring Runoff Preparations & Warnings
MRGCD Water Officials Warn of Heavier River Flows, Fire Danger Preparations underway for increase in water, higher temperatures When temperatures increase, snow melts and the spring runoff approaches. Officials at the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District are...
April ’24 Construction Recap
A 2024 construction recap from MRGCD's engineering team at the April board meeting.
April Water Report
Click on the image to view the April 2024 Irrigation/Hydrology Update.
Notice: Corrales Pumps Repaired
Video: Unauthorized Vehicles Not Allowed on MRGCD Property
Public Meeting: Belen Watershed Flood Protection Project
March 2024 Water Outlook Report
This video is a presentation of the February MRGCD water report. The presentation was made during the February board meeting by Anne Marken, who oversees MRGCD’s water operations.
MRGCD Construction Update – February 2024
This presentation was given by Alicia Lopez, MRGCD engineering and mapping manager, during the 2024 February board meeting; it highlights major construction projects throughout the District.
2024 Irrigation Season Starts Feb 26
Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District Announces Start of 2024 Irrigation Season Water managers will begin charging the irrigation system on February 26 Albuquerque, NM – Water managers at the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District are preparing for the...
MRGCD Introduces New Water Gauging Website
This is an instructional video on MRGCD’s new water gauge website – it’s user friendly and a great way for middle Rio Grande valley water users (and anyone else) to monitor flow data, upstream levels and more.
The new website can be found here: https://mrgcd.onerain.com/.