Announces $216,000 Appropriation for Restoration Project

Santa Rosa, NM – Monday, Congressman Teague toured the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa to learn more about plans for $216,000 he secured through the 2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill.  Congressman Teague was joined by local officials and a representative of the Army Corps of Engineers.  The funding will help pay for a feasibility study to analyze aquatic ecosystem restoration and protection alternatives in order to improve environmental quality around the Blue Hole.  Jane’s Wallace Dam will receive $315,000 for a similar feasibility study. 

“I am pleased that we were able to secure funding for the restoration of the areas around the Blue Hole, El Rito Creek, and Jane’s Wallace Memorial Dam,” said Congressman Harry Teague. “Restoring and maintaining this natural treasure for members of our community and tourists to enjoy will help strengthen our local economy for years to come.”

The funding for the Blue Hole project was one three projects Congressman Teague worked to secure for Guadalupe County through the appropriations process.  Santa Rosa Dam and Lake will be awarded $1,044,000 for flood damage reduction as one unit of the flood control plan for the Pecos River and Tributaries.  Also the Acequia Irrigation System account will receive $2,422,000, from which the West Puerto de Luna Acequia Association will fund the reconstruction the West Puerto de Luna Diversion Dam.  The energy and water development appropriations bill has been signed into law by the President.

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