Sanitary Projects Act
Many of New Mexico's water systems are formed as Mutual Domestic Water Consumers Associations (MDWCAs), a unique organization authorized by the Sanitary Projects Act. There are approximately 220 MDWCAs spread throughout the State. MDWCAs were first authorized by the State Legislature in 1947 as a solution to a public health crisis, the hazardous practices of use of water from ditches, rivers, and shallow wells. While the Act was successful in bringing safe drinking water to rural New Mexico, much of the language was outdated, irrelevant or inapplicable.
