A Good Road Lies Easy on the Land - Water Harvesting on Rural Roads
A Joint Publication of the Quivira Coalition, Zeedyk Ecological Consulting, LLC, The Rio Puerco Management Committee – Watershed Initiative, and the New Mexico Environment Department – Surface Water Quality Bureau.
“A road lies easily on the land if it is located on a landform where it can be readily and effectively drained (neither too steep nor too flat); is functional when used as intended (class of vehicle, season and suitable weather conditions); has appropriate drainage features (closely spaced, properly situated and adequately maintained); preserves the natural drainage pattern of the landform; conserves water; does not cause or contribute to accelerated soil loss, lost productivity or water pollution; does not encroach on wetland or riparian areas; and is scenically pleasing. A road is not easy on the land if it collects, concentrates or accelerates surface or subsurface runoff; causes or contributes to soil erosion; impairs or reduces the productivity of adjacent lands or waters; wastes water; unnecessarily intrudes upon key habitats, stream channels, floodplains, wetlands, wet meadows or other sensitive soils; and is aesthetically offensive.” —Bill Zeedyk
Above is an example of an infrastructure problem that needs improvement and there are many besides this drainage originating from one Town owned street. From sidewalks to trails, streets, sewers and everything that is collectively owned by the people of Silver City, both ideas and money are needed. Ideas can be new or redoes of existing infrastructure, even new ideas for old problems. Each year the Town applies to the State for money from taxes collected by the State But, the Town must have an "Infrastructure and Capital Improvement Plan" that lists the specific project the Town is asking funding for. If the project is not in the "Plan" an application for funding won't be considered by the State. Got a project? Now is your chance.