LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - Making hard choices and finding ways to adapt to drought will be among the topics at this year's water conference at New Mexico State University.
The daylong conference will be Aug. 28.
New Mexico is experiencing its worst two-year drought period in decades. Every square mile is affected, with more than three-quarters of the state covered by severe to exceptional drought conditions.
Conference co-host U.S. Sen. Tom Udall says water is crucial to New Mexico's economy but many communities, farms and industries aren't getting what they need due to the drought and infrastructure issues.
The conference will focus on the growing scarcity of water in the West as well as the relationship among agricultural, urban and rural water users and future demands.
The state water budget and deteriorating infrastructure will also be on the agenda.
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