36 From Data to Decision: Integrating Geophysics, Data Systems, and Modeling for Aquifer Characterization in Data-Sparse Regions
Advances in data acquisition, management, and analytics are transforming water-resources research in semi-arid, data-sparse regions. This session highlights the integration of geophysics, data systems, and modeling, including AEM, legacy data digitization, and cloud platforms. Contributions demonstrate how advances in data collection, management, analysis, and modeling approaches improve the characterization of fresh and brackish groundwater to support management, recharge, and long-term planning.
Wednesday, 20 May 2026
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alvarado F
Santa Teresa Project: Brackish Groundwater Exploration in Southern New Mexico
Paper number: 36-2
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:40 AM – 9:00 AM
Authors
Abstract
Prolonged drought conditions resulting from above-average temperatures and below-average snowmelt runoff are a common occurrence throughout the Southwest United States. In the Lower Rio Grande of New Mexico, a growing population and industrial development have added worry to the already stressed water supply. To provide relief to the area near the community of Santa Teresa, NM, the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, in collaboration with multiple government agencies and private contractors, is conducting an exploratory project along the southwestern edge of the Mesilla Basin to augment the water supply by potentially developing brackish groundwater. The Kilbourne-Noria subbasin has been identified as an area of interest (AOI) for further investigation of the brackish groundwater availability. In November 2024, an airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey was conducted within the AOI to help characterize the subsurface. Analysis of this survey has identified drilling locations to further the understanding of the basin’s structure, delineate changes in lithology, and determine the extent and distribution of low-resistivity signatures that may be associated with brackish groundwater.
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 4
doi: 10.1130/abs/2026RM-410499
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