Flood damage cuts off water to NM farmers

Farmers who rely on the Carlsbad Irrigation District for the water that grows their crops got a jolt of bad news last week. The Main Canal, Lateral 19C, Black River Canal, and Black River Diversion Dam were all significantly damaged due to the recent flooding in the Loving and Malaga areas, according to Dale Ballard, manager of the CID. The concrete liner in the main canal sustained significant damage in numerous locations west of Higby Hole Road. The north side Black River Diversion Dam was breached at the point where the Black River Supply Canal enters the dam, and much of the Black River Canal is filled with gravel and other debris. Last Monday, CID maintenance tried to begin repairs on the main canal. "Even though the canal banks appear to be dry, the soil in this area is extremely saturated," Ballad said. Water continues to seep into the canal from standing water on its west side, creating puddles of standing water in and around the areas that need to be repaired...more.