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