A Community-Led Effort to
Protect La Union

The La Union Watershed District was officially established in January 2018 by residents who wanted to safeguard their town from future flood disasters. This effort was born out of necessity: in September 2013, one of the two dams above La Union ruptured, causing extensive flood damage and hardship for many families. In the wake of that crisis, the community came together with a shared vision, to build a safer, more resilient future.

Who We Are

The Watershed District is managed by a team of five volunteer board members, all of whom are property owners within the district. Their leadership reflects a deep commitment to La Union’s well-being and future.

La Union Watershed District is a watershed district formed pursuant to the Watershed District Act, NMSA 1978, Section 73-20-1, et. seq. This legal framework empowers local communities to organize and manage watershed protection efforts through volunteer leadership, public meetings, and coordinated planning.

The District covers 876.52 acres, including the entire townsite and surrounding areas. We operate under Doña Ana Soil and Water Conservation District, aligning local efforts with broader conservation goals.

What We Do

The District focuses on:

• Flood prevention and control
• Erosion mitigation
• Reducing damage from floodwaters
• Collaborating closely with the Doña Ana County Flood Commission
• Water conservation and responsible use

We work to protect homes, land, and infrastructure while promoting long-term sustainability across our region.

How We’re Funded: The Mill Levy & Grants

The La Union Watershed District is funded through a combination of local property tax assessments and external grant funding.

• Mill Levy
  Approved by voters within the district, this small property tax helps fund maintenance of dams and ponds, infrastructure improvements, public outreach, and emergency preparedness. It ensures that local resources stay local, supporting projects that directly benefit La Union.
• Grants
  We actively pursue state and federal grants to supplement local funding. These grants help us plan and construct new flood control structures, rehabilitate aging infrastructure, and expand our capacity to serve the community.

Why It Matters

Every project we take on, from drainage improvements to community signage, is rooted in care for our land and our people. The Watershed District is more than a governing body; it’s a reflection of La Union’s strength, unity, and pride.

Together, we’re building a safer, more vibrant community, one drop at a time.