Water Rights Management

Providing a water supply of adequate quantity and quality is critical to the success of any residential or commercial development. SMA has assisted developers and community planners in characterizing regional and local hydrologic conditions in watershed and well siting analysis projects. SMA has prepared detailed hydrogeologic reports documenting regional and local groundwater flow patterns, subsurface geologic conditions, and local meteorological conditions. When previous investigations in the area have been conducted, SMA can provide geologic interpretation of existing well logs, reducing the cost on the project. 

SMA provides high-quality hydrologic modeling services by working closely with each client and regulatory agency to develop the best modeling program for each application. With experience in hydrology, geology, geochemistry, and computer modeling programs, SMA can: 

  • Predict contaminant migration for risk assessment purposes. Analysis includes determination of particle flow paths and travel time to receptors.
  • Determine aquifer capacity and consumptive use for community development to evaluate the capacity of the water resources.
  • Characterize vadose zone and aquifer properties for the design of remediation systems.
  • Develop reports protective of owned water rights (such as the New Mexico-specific 40-Year Water Plan)

SMA has assisted numerous private and municipal clients through the process of procuring, transferring, and selling water rights. By combining our knowledge in aquifer characterization and modeling, SMA has successfully negotiated small and large water right applications for both surface and groundwater. Our services include return flow credit analysis, regulatory compliance permitting, and expert witness services in water rights hearings.