Santa Fe Invites Public to “What’s Up With Water” on May 15: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the City’s Water Future
As concerns about water supply grow amid another dry winter, the City of Santa Fe is inviting residents to engage in a timely and informative conversation about the future of water in the region. The annual event, What’s Up With Water, returns on Wednesday, May 15, with two free virtual sessions at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. hosted by the City’s Public Utilities Department.
In a recent conversation on KSWV Radio, Dr. Jesse Roach, the City of Santa Fe’s Public Utilities Director, joined host Estevan Gonzales to preview the event and offer a glimpse into what residents can expect.
“This is our chance to talk directly with the community—about where our water is coming from, what we’ve seen over the past year, and how we’re planning for the future,” said Dr. Roach. “It’s an opportunity to update residents on everything from current water conditions to long-term infrastructure projects.”
The event will spotlight several key topics, including Santa Fe’s diversified water supply strategy and a major infrastructure investment currently underway at Nichols Reservoir. Built in the 1940s, Nichols Dam is receiving a $20 million rehabilitation to ensure its safety and functionality for generations to come.
Dr. Roach described the project as a rare behind-the-scenes look at Santa Fe’s water infrastructure. “We drained the reservoir, constructed a cofferdam, and routed water around the site so we could do the necessary work,” he explained. “We’ll be sharing photos and updates during the presentation.”
Each session will include a 30-minute presentation followed by a live Q&A, allowing residents to ask questions directly to city experts. “We’ll be joined by team members from across our department who bring a range of expertise,” said Roach. “The conversations that follow are always valuable.”
Dr. Roach emphasized the importance of public participation, especially in a year with lower-than-average snowpack. “When winters are this dry, the questions come fast: Where will the water come from? Are we prepared? This event gives everyone a chance to get real answers from the people managing the system every day.”
In addition to infrastructure updates, the event will highlight the City’s new water data dashboard, as well as projections for 2025’s water use and supply.
Residents can access the Zoom links and more information by visiting santafenm.gov/water. Both sessions will cover the same material, allowing flexibility for community members to attend the time that works best for them—or attend both if they wish.
“The community’s interest and engagement in water is one of Santa Fe’s greatest strengths,” said Roach. “We look forward to this event every year, and we hope people will join us for another meaningful conversation.”
Event Details:
What’s Up With Water 2025
📅 Wednesday, May 15
🕘 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (virtual sessions)
🔗 Join at: santafenm.gov/water
Santa Fe residents are encouraged to attend, stay informed, and be part of shaping the city’s water future.
Join us on KSWV Radio as we sit down with Dr. Jesse Roach, the City of Santa Fe's Public Utilities Director. In this insightful episode, we explore the upcoming What's Up With Water event, a crucial discussion about Santa Fe's water management and future plans. Dr. Roach shares the importance of understanding water supply challenges and how the city is preparing to meet these demands now and in the future.
