The Lower Rio Grande River, originating in the southern reaches of the Rocky Mountains, is the lifeblood of the Mesilla Valley and the communities it sustains. From Caballo Dam to the New Mexico–Texas border, the Lower Rio Grande watershed supports a productive agricultural economy, a growing international trade corridor with Mexico, the City of Las Cruces—New Mexico’s second-largest city—and New Mexico State University, the state’s land-grant institution.

As climate conditions shift, the region faces increasing temperatures, prolonged drought, more intense storm events, and diminishing water supplies. These changes place growing pressure on the watershed and the communities that depend on it. Addressing these challenges requires an informed and engaged public equipped to understand watershed systems, water management, and conservation strategies.

Originally envisioned as a volunteer certification program, the Master Watershed Conservationist initiative has evolved into a public education webinar series designed to make watershed science, policy, and management concepts accessible to a broad audience. This format allows DASWCD to reach more residents, professionals, and community leaders while providing lasting educational resources.

Webinar Topic Areas

The Master Watershed Conservationist webinar series covers key subject areas related to the New Mexico Lower Rio Grande watershed, including:

• Watersheds and Watershed Planning
• Weather, Climate, Drought, and Flooding
• Hydrology, Stream Processes, and Ecology
• Soil and Geologic Processes
• Water Law and Regulations
• Water Supply Management

All webinars are recorded and archived, with videos available on the DASWCD YouTube channel, creating an ongoing resource for residents, educators, and decision-makers interested in watershed stewardship.

Program Purpose

The goal of the Master Watershed Conservationist program is to:

• Equip residents of the Lower Rio Grande watershed with foundational knowledge of watershed systems and water management
• Support informed participation in planning and conservation discussions
• Promote long-term stewardship of the Lower Rio Grande watershed for current and future generations