CITY OF LOVINGTON 40 YEAR WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Transcription

1 CITY OF LOVINGTON 40 YEAR WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN by Annie M. McCoy, CPG Roger Peery, CPG Water Resource and Environmental Consultants 2611 Broadbent Parkway NE Albuquerque, New Mexico prepared for City of Lovington New Mexico July 2014

2 CITY OF LOVINGTON 40-YEAR WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN by Annie M. McCoy, CPG Roger Peery, CPG Water-Resource and Environmental Consultants 2611 Broadbent Parkway NE Albuquerque, New Mexico prepared for City of Lovington New Mexico July 2014

3 JSAI ii CITY OF LOVINGTON 40-YEAR WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Lovington was established in the early 1900s as a ranching and farming center; oil and gas development began to have a significant impact on economic development in the 1950s, and the dairy industry began to have a significant impact in the early 2000s. The City is currently experiencing significant economic development as a result of an influx of high technology companies, ongoing development of natural resources in the area, and development of renewable energy. The City s water supply comes from the Lea County Underground Water Basin, in which groundwater is present in the High Plains aquifer. Groundwater in the aquifer is being pumped out at a faster rate than it is being recharged. The City s seventeen active water-supply wells are located several miles southeast of the City, and are susceptible to point source and non-point source pollution associated with agriculture, and point-source pollution related to nearby refinery, pipelines, and other oil and gas operations. The City owns a total of 6, acre-foot per year (ac-ft/yr) of water rights and permits for municipal use. Based on population projects and a total GPCD goal of 242 GPCD, projected water demand at the end of the 40-year planning period in 2053 will be about 6,157 ac-ft/yr, demonstrating a need for the City s existing rights plus about 140 ac-ft/yr. Projected water demand anticipates future industrial and commercial development, including a potential water park to be developed after 10 years. Due to the potential need to use the City s existing wells and water rights for pollution control purposes in the future, a 10 percent pollution control safety factor should be applied. The safety factor assumes that up to 10 percent of the City s existing rights will need to be used for pollution control in the future. Thus, about 756 ac-ft/yr in additional rights (140 ac-ft/yr plus 10 percent of 40-year projected demand) will need to be acquired and transferred to meet the City s demand for potable water supply. The City s baseline water conservation measures include SCADA and water metering, a water rate structure that imposes additional costs on residential water uses that use over 3,000 gallons per month and commercial customers that use over 5,000 gallons per month and may be automatically adjusted to conform to periodic adjustments of the consumer price index, water reclamation, and a Water Protection Ordinance. The proposed Water Conservation Plan includes collection of additional data on diversions and metered deliveries and a water system audit, subsequent evaluation of the water rate structure, infrastructure improvements as presented in the City s ICIP, and evaluation of water reclamation. The Water Development Plan includes implementation of the Water Conservation Plan, a groundwater level monitoring program, transfer of existing water rights, and acquisition and transfer of additional water rights.

4 JSAI iii CONTENTS page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... ii 1.0 INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND Previous Work Hydrogeologic Setting Basin Water-Rights Administration City of Lovington Water Planning Survey WATER SUPPLY WATER SYSTEM POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION WATER RIGHTS L-4058 thru L-4058-S-12 & L-70 Comb; L-53-AA, L-1702, L-1703 & L-1704-Comb-A L-208, L-208-S L-4984; L-1718, L-1719, L-4957, L-4984, L-5060 & L-5458-Comb-S L-5486 & L-5486-S; L-5164 into L L-1716 and L WATER DEMAND Population Current Population Population Growth Projections Water Use Water Demand Projections WATER CONSERVATION Baseline Water Conservation SCADA and Metering Water Rates Water Reclamation Water Protection Ordinance Water Conservation Plan Data Collection and Water System Audit Evaluation of Water Rate Structure Infrastructure Improvements Evaluation of Water Reclamation WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Implementation of Water Conservation Plan Groundwater Level Monitoring Program Update of 40-Year Water Development Plan and Conservation Plan Acquisition and Transfer of Water Rights ADDITIONAL WATER-SUPPLY DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES Aquifer Storage and Recovery Desalination REFERENCES... 29

5 JSAI iv TABLES page Table 1. Estimated current and future saturated thicknesses for areas in which City of Lovington wells are located, Lea County, New Mexico... 6 Table 2. Summary of U.S. Geological Survey hydrographs near City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico... 8 Table 3. Summary of City of Lovington water-supply wells Table 4. Summary of water quality samples collected November 27, 2013, from City of Lovington water-supply wells Table 5. Summary of City of Lovington water rights and permits Table 6. U.S. Census data for City of Lovington Table 7. Population projections and annual growth rates for City of Lovington Table 8. Historical water diversions for City of Lovington Table 9. Historical water use for City of Lovington Table 10. Water demand projections for City of Lovington Table 11. Current water rate structure for monthly water billing, City of Lovington Table 12. American Water Works Association water balance Table 13. Water-related projects in the City of Lovington Infrastructure and Capital Improvement Plan... 25

6 JSAI v ILLUSTRATIONS (follow text) Figure 1. Aerial photograph for City of Lovington area showing the Lea County Underground Water Basin, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 2. Three-dimensional diagram showing aquifer saturated thickness based on water-level elevations and top-of-red-bed elevations, and selected active supply wells for City of Lovington, looking east-to-west in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 3. Three-dimensional diagram showing aquifer saturated thickness based on water-level elevations and top-of-red-bed elevations, and selected active supply wells for City of Lovington, looking south-to-north in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 4. Map showing NMOSE model-predicted saturated thickness in 2045 in the vicinity of City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 5. Aerial photograph showing City of Lovington wells, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 6. Aerial photograph showing City of Lovington southern well field, locations of sites identified by NMED and OCD that represent potential point sources of pollution in and around City well fields, and water-table elevation contours. Figure 7. Graph of historical and projected population for City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 8. Graph showing historical total gallons per capita per day (GPCD) water use, annual precipitation, and annual average temperature, City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico. Figure 9. Graph of historical and projected water demand and total gallons per capita per day (GPCD) water use for City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico.

7 JSAI vi APPENDICES (follow illustrations) Appendix A. Hydrographs for wells monitored by U.S. Geological Survey near City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico Appendix B. City of Lovington water-supply wells Appendix C. Potential point source pollution sites in the vicinity of City of Lovington wells Appendix D. Water Rates Ordinances Appendix E. Water Protection Ordinance

8 JSAI CITY OF LOVINGTON 40-YEAR WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN 1.0 INTRODUCTION The City of Lovington contracted John Shomaker & Associates, Inc. (JSAI) to prepare a 40-Year Water Development Plan for the planning period 2014 to The primary purpose of 40-year water development planning is to assess the amount of water needed to meet current and future demand in relation to the amount of water rights currently permitted or licensed, and available groundwater in storage in the Lea County Underground Water Basin in the vicinity of the City s well fields. New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) Section states: A. It is recognized by the state of New Mexico that it promotes the public welfare and the conservation of water within the state for municipalities, counties, state universities, member-owned community water systems and public utilities supplying water to municipalities or counties to plan for the reasonable development and use of water resources. The state further recognizes the state engineer's administrative policy of not allowing municipalities, member-owned community water systems, counties and state universities to acquire and hold, unused, water rights in an amount greater than their reasonable needs within forty years. B. Municipalities, counties, state universities, member-owned community water systems and public utilities supplying water to municipalities or counties shall be allowed a water use planning period not to exceed forty years, and water rights for municipalities, counties, state universities, member-owned community water systems and public utilities supplying water to such municipalities or counties shall be based upon a water development plan the implementation of which shall not exceed a fortyyear period from the date of the application for an appropriation or a change of place or purpose of use pursuant to a water development plan or for preservation of a municipal, county, member-owned community water system or state university water supply for reasonably projected additional needs within forty years. Thus, the State of New Mexico allows municipal water systems such as City of Lovington to acquire and hold water rights in an amount equal to its reasonably projected needs within 40 years.

9 JSAI 2 The State Engineer has defined the contents of a water development plan in Section B. NMAC of the Rules and Regulations Governing the Appropriation and Use of Surface Water of New Mexico, and these rules are also applied to groundwater. The defined contents include the following: summary of all water rights subject to the plan place and purpose of use of the identified water rights historical and current water use historical and existing population served by the identified water rights reasonable population projections implemented water conservation measures planned water conservation measures summary of the per capita water use including a comparison with the per capita water use of other similar 40-year planning entities reasonably projected additional needs - taking into account the variability of surface-water supply and the sustainability of groundwater supply - for water within 40 years any other information the State Engineer deems necessary 2.1 Previous Work 2.0 BACKGROUND The Lea County Regional Water Plan (2000), prepared for the Lea County Water Users Association and accepted by the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, addresses issues of water demand and supply in Lea County, including the City of Lovington. The draft Lea County Deep Aquifer Study evaluated potential deeper groundwater resources to be explored and developed in Lea County (JSAI, 2004 second draft). 2.2 Hydrogeologic Setting Groundwater resources in the area surrounding the City of Lovington include hydrogeologic strata within the Lea County Underground Water Basin. There are no perennial streams in Lea County, and surface water is limited to stock ponds and other manmade impoundments, playas, and ephemeral drainage. Groundwater in the Lea County Underground Water Basin is present in the High Plains aquifer, which consists of water-bearing silt, sand, and gravel deposits of the Tertiary-age Ogallala Formation and hydrologically-connected deposits (alluvial deposits and Cretaceous-age rocks). Groundwater in the aquifer is being pumped out at a faster rate than it is being recharged and modeling studies and observed water level declines indicate that portions of the aquifer may become unsaturated by the year 2045 (NMOSE, 2009). Current saturated thickness in the aquifer can be calculated based on recent water-level measurements and depth to the top of the underlying Triassic-age rocks, or red beds.

10 JSAI Basin Water-Rights Administration The Lea County Underground Water Basin was declared by the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer (NMOSE) in 1931 and closed to further appropriation in The Basin was extended in 1952, and Orders re-opening parts of the Basin to further development were issued in 1952 and again in In 1953, the NMOSE developed specific administrative criteria for managing groundwater appropriations within the Basin, and the Ogallala aquifer was the focus of the administrative criteria. Water rights within the Basin were administered using a block system consisting of 36 sections within a given township and range. The Lea County Underground Water Basin is a mined basin, wherein groundwater is removed at rates that exceed recharge to the aquifer. Administration of the Basin was intended to allow use of groundwater to a specified amount of de-watering during a 40-year planning period. The boundaries of the Basin were extended again on September 23, Basin boundaries are shown on Figure 1. Due to the limited groundwater supply within the High Plains aquifer, the New Mexico State Engineer issued an order on March 10, 2009 closing the High Plains aquifer to the filing of applications for new appropriations under NMSA Section The Lea County Underground Water Basin Guidelines for Review of Water Rights Applications (Basin Guidelines) were adopted by the New Mexico State Engineer on September 16, The Guidelines are based on a block system consisting of 1-square-mile blocks that correspond to model cells in the administrative groundwater-flow model. Key aspects of the guidelines include the following: an administrative groundwater-flow model will be used to identify areas where the saturated thickness of the aquifer will be 55 ft or less by 2045, and these areas will be designated as critical management areas (CMAs) water rights can be moved from one block to another throughout the Basin, but to prolong the water supply in CMAs, changes in point of diversion from areas outside of a CMA into the CMA will generally be rejected the administrative groundwater-flow model will be used to determine drawdowns resulting from an application applications to move water rights cannot create more drawdown than 0.05 ft/yr on a CMA (Guidelines indicate ft/yr, but NMOSE is currently using the revised number of 0.05 ft/yr to evaluate water rights applications), or 0.20 ft/yr on a non-cma analysis of local area impacts from proposed water-rights applications may also be performed and include evaluation of impacts to the saturated thickness and reductions in water columns of existing wells

11 JSAI City of Lovington The City of Lovington was established in the early 1900s as a ranching and farming center. Oil and gas development began to have a significant impact on economic development and population in the 1950s, and the dairy industry began to have a significant impact in the early 2000s. The City of Lovington, and Lea County in general, are currently experiencing significant economic development as a result of an influx of high technology companies, ongoing development of natural resources in the area, and development of renewable energy. 2.5 Water Planning Survey In an effort to better understand the concerns and interests of Lovington residents regarding water supply and water use for planning purposes, an on-line survey was posted on the City website. The survey only solicited a few responses, but these responses help set the tone for the various components of the 40-Year Plan. In terms of future development in the City that would affect water demand projections, residents who responded to the survey desired the development of more industry in the area, as well as commercial development, and to a lesser extent, more City parks or water-based recreational opportunities such as fishing ponds or a water park. The types of industries identified as desirable for future development included continued oil and gas development, high tech, and renewable energy-related development. Dryland farming was also identified as desirable for future development. In terms of water supply to their homes, residents who responded to the survey were concerned with quantity, desiring a plentiful supply for residential use including landscape irrigation, and quality, desiring good quality water. Responders were somewhat concerned to very concerned about the potential for contamination of the water supply. Residential landscaping was described as consisting of xeriscaping with low water use plantings and some areas of lawn and shade trees. This description of residential landscaping is aligned with residents desires for landscaping in public places such as street medians: xeriscaping with some areas of lawn and shade trees. Those who responded to the survey generally felt that their water bills reflected the true cost of providing a safe, reliable water supply, and one responder felt the bill seemed higher than the true cost.

12 JSAI 5 Residents who responded to the survey would generally like to see the City do more to encourage water conservation by: providing educational workshops and literature on xeriscaping and water-wise gardening and landscaping adopting a landscaping ordinance for new development that maximizes water efficiency practicing more wastewater reuse, either by reclaiming a greater volume of wastewater, or treating wastewater to a higher standard for increased flexibility in use of reclaimed water 3.0 WATER SUPPLY The City of Lovington s water supply is groundwater in the Lea County Underground Water Basin. Groundwater in the Lea County Underground Water Basin is present in the High Plains aquifer, which consists of water-bearing deposits of the Tertiary-age Ogallala Formation and hydrologically-connected deposits (alluvial deposits and Cretaceous-age rocks). Groundwater in the aquifer is being pumped out at a faster rate than it is being recharged and modeling studies and observed water level declines indicate that portions of the aquifer may become unsaturated by the year 2045 (NMOSE, 2009). Current saturated thickness in the aquifer can be calculated based on recent water-level measurements and depth to the top of the underlying Triassic-age rocks, or red beds. The direction of groundwater flow in the Lovington area is generally east-southeast (Tillery, 2008). Figures 2 and 3 present three-dimension diagrams showing aquifer saturated thickness in the vicinity of Lovington, in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, based on water table elevations and top-of-red-bed elevations. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate that saturated thickness can be variable within one township/range block, with local areas of significantly higher saturated thickness. Current saturated thickness has been estimated by NMOSE (2009), with updated values presented in the May 2013 version of the NMOSE administrative groundwater-flow model. Saturated thickness was also estimated for the year 2007 by the U.S. Geological Survey (Tillery, 2008). Table 1 presents estimates of current and future saturated thicknesses in the areas in which City of Lovington wells are located. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates of current saturated thickness are generally 20 to 40 ft lower than estimates from the May 2013 version of the NMOSE model. Figure 4 presents a map showing NMOSE model-predicted saturated thickness in 2045 in the vicinity of City of Lovington assuming pumping of full water rights and permits by all users.

13 JSAI 6 Table 1. Estimated current and future saturated thicknesses for areas in which City of Lovington wells are located, Lea County, New Mexico T.R.S NMOSE a 2010 saturated thickness, ft USGS b 2007 saturated thickness, ft NMOSE a 2045 saturated thickness, ft NMOSE a 2053 saturated thickness, ft NMOSE average decline rate, ft/yr recent decline rate from hydrographs c, ft/yr 2053 saturated thickness based on recent water-level decline rate, ft 16S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.37E to to to to S.37E to to to to S.36E to to to to S.36E to to a May 2013 version of NMOSE administrative groundwater-flow model b Tillery (2008) c based on water level data collected from 1995 to present by USGS; see hydrographs in Appendix A T.R.S - Township, Range, Section NMOSE - New Mexico Office of the State Engineer USGS - U.S. Geological Survey

14 JSAI 7 NMOSE-designated CMAs (see figure 3 in NMOSE, 2009) coincide with the locations of some City wells in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, Section 10. However, NMOSE updated saturated thickness estimates since establishing CMAs in In the May 2013 version of the NMOSE model, the areas in which City wells are located in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, have estimated saturated thicknesses ranging from 98 to 162 ft in 2045 assuming pumping of full water rights and permits by all users. Thus, these areas do not represent a CMA based on the May 2013 model. In the May 2013 version of the NMOSE model, the areas in which City wells are located in Township 16 South, Range 37 East, have estimated saturated thicknesses ranging from 99 to 140 ft in The areas in which City wells are located in Township 17 South, Range 36 East, have estimated saturated thicknesses ranging from 132 to 159 ft in Thus, these areas do not represent CMAs. Table 1 presents NMOSE model-predicted saturated thickness in 2045 as well as model-predicted saturated thickness at the end of the 40-year planning period (end of 2053) for areas in which City wells are located. Model-predicted remaining saturated thickness at the end of the 40-year planning period ranges from 91 to 157 ft for areas in which City wells are located. Water-level trends for the area surrounding the City of Lovington, and the City s well fields, were evaluated using historical water-level data for wells monitored by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Hydrographs for wells monitored by USGS with at least ten data points, and a period of record ending in 2010 or later, are included in Appendix A. Linear regression was used to determine recent decline rates from hydrographs, utilizing water level data collected between 1995 and present (see Appendix A). The average decline rate within the City limits was about 0.29 ft/yr based on trends for nearby USGS-monitored wells, whereas the average decline rate for the City well field located south of the City limits was about 0.94 ft/yr (Table 2). These decline rates are significantly lower than those from the NMOSE model, as compared in Table 1. Model-predicted remaining saturated thickness for areas in which City wells are located at the end of the 40-year planning period, based on these recent decline rates from hydrographs and NMOSE 2010 saturated thickness (assuming lower-end values), range from 121 to 168 ft. Thus, estimates of saturated thickness for areas in which City wells are located at the end of the 40-year planning period are generally 100 ft or more.

15 JSAI 8 Table 2. Summary of U.S. Geological Survey hydrographs near City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico USGS ID T.R.S.qqq rate of decline (-) or rise (+), ft/yr City well field area T.R.S S.36E S.36E S.36E S.37E S.37E S.36E.03, 16S.36E.04, 16S.36E.09, 16S.36E.10, 16S.36E S.36E average S.36E S.36E S.37E average S.36E.25, 16S.36E.26, 16S.36E.35, 16S.36E.36, 16S.37E.30, 16S.37E.31, 17S.36E.01, 17S.36E.02 USGS - U.S. Geological Survey T.R.S.qqq - township, range, section, quarter quarter quarter

16 JSAI WATER SYSTEM Figure 5 shows all City-owned wells, and Table 3 presents a summary of the City s seventeen active water-supply wells currently in use, which are located several miles southeast of the City on both sides of the Lovington-Hobbs Highway (Highway 18). Total depths of active supply wells range from 220 to 266 ft, and approximate production capacities range from 200 to 1,000 gallons per minute (gpm). Specific capacities for active supply wells, based on information provided in Proof of Completion of Well forms submitted to NMOSE, range from 1.9 to 55.6 gpm/ft. A table of all City wells is included as Appendix B. The City of Lovington water and wastewater departments use supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems to control pumping levels, pump hand off auto (HOA) controls, and lift station pumps. The water department has implemented a radio read meter system with GPS locations on meters and leak detection. Table 4 presents recent water-quality results for five City of Lovington supply wells. The groundwater supply is of good quality, and can generally be described as calcium-bicarbonate type water. Hardness ranged from 200 to 510 milligrams per liter (mg/l), which is considered very hard. The most common problems associated with hard water is the precipitate, or mineral buildup, that forms in hot-water heaters and in and on plumbing fixtures, and an increase in soap consumption for washing clothes, dishes, and showering. The total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration in Well 13 was above the New Mexico Environment Department, Drinking Water Bureau (NMED, DWB) secondary (aesthetic-related) standard. NMED, DWB secondary standards are related to aesthetic qualities such as taste and odor. Nitrate concentrations in wells sampled on November 27, 2013, were below the NMED, DWB primary (health-related) drinking water standard, but appear to be somewhat elevated, and may be related to point source or nonpoint source pollution associated with agriculture. A comparison of nitrate concentrations for samples collected from Wells 9, 12, 13, 14, and 15 over the past 20 years indicates an average increase of 3.7 mg/l.

17 JSAI 10 Table 3. Summary of City of Lovington water-supply wells City well No. NMOSE ID No. date drilled total depth, ft screen interval, ft non-pumping water level from PCW, ft pumping water level from PCW, ft pumping test rate from PCW, gpm Q/s estimated from PCW, gpm/ft 2 L-4058-S-14 5/6/ to , L-4984-S-19 5/25/ to , L-4984-S-2 6/5/ to , A L-5486-S 5/1/ to , L-4984-S-3 5/29/ to , L-4984-S-4 6/2/ to , L-4058-S-15 5/5/ to , L-4058-S-17 4/29/ to L-4058-S-18 5/1/ to L-4058-S-19 5/3/ to L-4058-S-24 4/7/ to L-4508-S-21 1//28/ to L-4508-S-25 4/13/ to L /4/ to L-4058-S-27 10/4/ to L-4058-S to L-4058-S-31 10/11/ to PCW - Proof of Completion of Well form submitted to New Mexico Office of the State Engineer Q/s - specific capacity gpm/ft - gallons per minute per foot

18 JSAI 11 Table 4. Summary of water quality samples collected November 27, 2013, from City of Lovington water-supply wells parameter units Well 9 Well 12 Well 13 Well 14 Well 15 Well 18 Well 27 Well 31 NMED/DWB standard sample date 11/27/13 11/27/13 11/27/13 11/27/13 11/27/13 3/14/02 10/30/12 10/30/12 reference City City City City City DWW DWW DWW ph (lab) ph units to bicarbonate mg/l ns hardness as CaCO3 mg/l ns calcium mg/l ns magnesium mg/l ns sodium and potassium mg/l ns sulfate mg/l ns chloride mg/l iron mg/l < total dissolved solids mg/l specific conductance S/cm ns nitrate mg/l NMED/DWB - New Mexico Environment Department Drinking Water Bureau DWW NMED Drinking Water Watch, 1 Secondary (aesthetic-related) standards ns - no standard values in bold exceed the NMED/DWB standard S/cm - microsiemens per centimeter mg/l - milligrams per liter

19 JSAI POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION A variety of contamination sources, both point sources originating from discrete locations and non-point sources originating over more widespread or unspecified areas, have the potential to contaminate the City s groundwater supply. The presence of numerous dairy operations and current or historic feed lots in the region, and elevated nitrate concentrations in selected wells in the City s well field located south of town, suggests the potential for point source or non-point source pollution associated with agriculture. The proximity of this well field to a refinery, pipelines, and numerous other oil and gas operations represents high potential for point-source pollution; numerous spills associated with these oil and gas operations have been documented by the Oil Conservation Division (OCD). In addition, NMED has documented a number of active leaking petroleum sites within the City limits, which have the potential to contaminate nearby wells. A review of sites on file with NMED and OCD is helpful in identifying potential point sources of pollution; Figure 6 and Appendix C present locations of potential point sources. The list of NMED discharge permits, last updated on July 29, 2013, includes the City s wastewater treatment plant, the Lovington Cheese Plant, and numerous dairies. Note that the Lovington Economic Development Corporation lists the Lovington Cheese Plant property as currently for sale. Only one site is listed for the Lovington area on the NMED s list of active clean-up sites updated on July 18, 2013: the Landmark (Doldersum) Dairy site is about 1 mile south of the City s well field located south of town. The contaminants of concern at this site are nitrate and TDS, and the regulatory status of the site is identified as Stage 1 Abatement Plan. The NMED, Petroleum Storage Tank Bureau list of active leaking petroleum sites, updated on August 2, 2013, lists six active sites within the City limits. The OCD has documented numerous leaks and spills of crude oil and produced water associated with oil and gas operations near City wells. Of particular concern are the following: leaks and spills of crude oil, crude-naphtha mix, gas oil, and waste water as a result of ongoing normal operations at Navajo Lovington Refinery (OCD Abatement Plan AP-110) Araho, Inc. site, a former injection well disposal facility that has a singlelined evaporation pit containing oily wastes, which is in the process of being cleaned up historic spills and leaks from produced water lines, where the contaminants of concern are chloride and TDS

20 JSAI WATER RIGHTS A summary of the City s water rights is presented in Table 5. The City owns a total of 6, ac-ft/yr of water rights and permits for municipal use within and near the City of Lovington. The City owns an additional ac-ft/yr of irrigation rights, and leases an additional 1, ac-ft/yr of irrigation rights. 6.1 L-4058 thru L-4058-S-12 & L-70 Comb; L-53-AA, L-1702, L-1703 & L-1704-Comb-A Permit L-4058 thru L-4058-S-12 & L-70 Comb was issued for 3, ac-ft/yr on January 17, To this total, 45 ac-ft/yr were added under L-1702, L-1703 & L-1704-Comb-A on January 9, 1963, and 65.8 ac-ft/yr were added under L-53-AA on November 15, 1965, for a new total of 3, ac-ft/yr. The wells are located in Township 16 South, Range 36 East. A December 16, 2009 NMOSE memorandum states that As of year 2000 the maximum amount of water applied to beneficial use for the City of Lovington was acre-feet per annum. This number corresponds to the metered diversion from City wells in Township 16 South, Range 36 East between October 1, 1999 and September 30, However, a higher metered diversion of 2,511.6 ac-ft/yr was reported for the period January 1 to December 31, 1995 (see April 22, 1998 NMOSE memorandum regarding L-5164 into L-5486). Note that well L-4058-S-23(T) (City Well 17) was permitted as a recovery well for groundwater remediation in Additional statements on the permit application submitted by Navajo Refining Company indicate, The recovered water will replace water currently supplied by a water well owned by the City of Lovington and, as such, will be utilized in the desalting system as make-up water for crude oil washing purposes After leaving the desalter system, the water stream undergoes additional treatment (product separation, volatile stripping, steam heating, etc.) prior to being released into the City of Lovington publicly owned treatment works along with site discharge water. 6.2 L-208, L-208-S The City holds a licensed water right for ac-ft/yr (up to 600 gpm) for municipal use under L-208 and L-208-S. The license for up to 600 gpm was issued on January 30, The wells are located in Township 16 South, Range 36 East.

21 JSAI 14 Table 5. Summary of City of Lovington water rights and permits NMOSE file number(s) type use diversion, ac-ft/yr well location comments L-4058 thru L-4058-S-12 & L-70 Comb; L-53-AA, L-1702, L-1703 & L-1704-Comb-A permit municipal 3, T16S.R36E L-208, L-208-S license municipal T16S.R36E 600 gpm L-4984; L-1718, L-1719, L-4957, L-4984, L-5060 & L-5458-Comb-S permit municipal 1,094.6 T16S.R37E L-5486 & L-5486-S; L-5164 into L-5486 permit municipal 258 T17S.R36E Total rights and permits owned by City of Lovington for municipal use 6, L-1716 license irrigation T17S.R36E 10 acres sold; acres remaining L-2481 license irrigation T17S.R36E acres Total rights owned by City of Lovington for irrigation use NMOSE - New Mexico Office of the State Engineer ac-ft/yr - acre-feet per year gpm - gallons per minute

22 JSAI L-4984; L-1718, L-1719, L-4957, L-4984, L-5060 & L-5458-Comb-S Permit L-1718, L-1719, L-4957, L-4984, L-5060 & L-5458-Comb-S was issued for ac-ft/yr on January 27, To this total, 333 ac-ft/yr were added under L-4984-Enlarged on August 4, 1967, for a total of 1,094.6 ac-ft/yr. The wells are located in Township 16 South, Range 37 East. A December 1, 2006 NMOSE memorandum states that For the year 2000, the maximum amount of water applied to beneficial use was 1, acre-feet per annum. This number corresponds to the metered diversion from City wells in Township 16 South, Range 37 East between October 1, 1999 and September 30, However, it should be noted that a higher metered diversion of 1, ac-ft/yr was reported for the period October 1, 1997 to September 30, 1998 (see November 13, 2000 NMOSE memorandum). 6.4 L-5486 & L-5486-S; L-5164 into L-5486 Permit L-5184 into L-5486 was issued for 160 ac-ft/yr on July 27, To this total, 98 ac-ft/yr were added under L-5456, L-5486, and L-5487 on May 15, 1965, for a total of 258 ac-ft/yr. The wells are located in Township 17 South, Range 36 East. A December 16, 2009 NMOSE memorandum states that As of the year 2001 the maximum annual diversion of water applied to beneficial use was acre-feet per annum. This number corresponds to the metered diversion from wells under L-5486 & L-5486-S; L-5164 into L-5486 in Township 16 South, Range 37 East for the calendar year L-1716 and L-2481 The City holds licensed water rights for irrigation use in Township 17 South, Range 36 East under L-1716 and L License L-1716 was issued for acres of irrigated crop land at 3 ac-ft/ac on March 1, 1963, for a total diversion of ac-ft/yr. Ten acres were conveyed to AST West, Inc. in 2001, reducing the City s right to acres and ac-ft/yr. License L-2481 was issued for acres, including acres of crop land at 3 ac-ft/ac and 61.3 acres of native grasses at 1 ac-ft/ac, on February 20, 1964, for a total diversion of ac-ft/yr.

23 JSAI WATER DEMAND 7.1 Population Current Population U.S. Census 2010 indicated a population of 11,009, and U.S. Census Population Estimates for 2012 indicated a population estimate of 11,275 for the City of Lovington. This is the current population served by the City s water system. Table 6 presents a comparison of U.S. Census 2000 and 2010 population data for City of Lovington. The City experienced a relatively high rate of population growth between 2000 and 2010, with an average growth rate of 1.5 percent annually. City population had been relatively stable between 1960 and 2000, ranging from 8,915 to 9,727 (Fig. 7). Table 6. U.S. Census data for City of Lovington parameter percent change average annual percent change total population 9,471 11, occupied housing units 3,297 3, total housing units 3,823 3, average household size population in group quarters Population Growth Projections The City of Lovington and Lea County in general are experiencing significant economic development as a result of an influx of high technology companies, ongoing development of natural resources in the area, and development of renewable energy. The Lea County 40-Year Water Development Plan identified a number of economic development projects in the area surrounding City of Lovington, including Lea Nuclear, Light Water Reactor Fuel Reprocessing, and Solar Manufacturing Plant, within 10 miles west and south of the City (JSAI, 2009). The Light Water Reactor Fuel Reprocessing project alone is expected to employ 3,000 people (JSAI, 2009).

24 JSAI 17 Population projections for the City of Lovington for the 40-year planning period are presented in Table 7 and Figure 7. Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) population projections and growth rates for Lea County through the year 2040 were used to calculate population projections for the City of Lovington. Whereas the City has grown at an average rate of about 1.5 percent annually between 2000 and 2010, BBER projections would indicate annual growth rates ranging from 2.0 percent between 2010 and 2015, to 1.6 percent between 2035 and Projected population of City of Lovington at the end of the 40-year planning period (year 2053) is 22,670, or about double the current population. Table 7. Population projections and annual growth rates for City of Lovington time period BBER Lea County population at end of time period average annual percent growth City of Lovington population at end of time period ,727-11, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,670 italics - based on BBER average annual growth rate of 1.6 percent 7.2 Water Use Table 8 presents total gallons per capita per day (GPCD) water use for City of Lovington based on diversion records submitted to NMOSE and population estimates between 1981 and Although these total GPCD numbers show significant variability, Figure 8 shows that total GPCD generally increased as annual average temperature increased, and precipitation decreased, over time. Data on total metered diversions were not available for recent years, as some City wells have meters that are out of service and some City wells are unmetered. The City is currently working to resolve this problem by replacing broken meters that are out of service, and installing new meters on previously un-metered wells.

25 JSAI 18 Table 8. Historical water diversions for City of Lovington year total metered diversions, ac-ft population served total GPCD b a ,147 9, ,787 9, ,390 9, ,986 9, ,691 9, ,909 9, ,318 9, ,226 9, ,707 9, ,754 9, ,509 9, ,625 9, ,915 9, ,569 9, ,485 9, ,484 9, ,344 9, ,277 9, ,800 a 9, ,500 a 9, estimated based on totals for the water year October through September b [metered diversions] / population served italics - interpolated from U.S. Census data ac-ft - acre-feet GPCD - gallons per capita per day

26 JSAI 19 Data on annual water deliveries, categorized as residential and commercial, were available for recent years 2011 through 2013 (Table 9). Based on these data, residential GPCD water use has ranged from 233 to 268 GPCD in recent years. Monthly data were not available, so seasonal fluctuations in demand could not be evaluated. Due to the lack of diversion data, non-revenue water could not be quantified. Due to the lack of diversion data, and lack of data on unbilled authorized consumption (for example, metered main flushing, sewer cleaning, potable well flushing, and non-potable production), water losses could not be quantified. Based on data available for 1999, water losses represented about 22 percent of total diversions (Table 9). Without recent data on total annual diversions, total GPCD water use, and water losses, it is difficult to develop goals for future GPCD water use and to project future water demands. Also, there is uncertainty associated with the residential GPCD water use calculated from recent data, since water deliveries for other uses may have been lumped under the residential category. For example, although annual water deliveries in recent years have been categorized as either residential or commercial, deliveries for industrial use, irrigation of ball fields and cemetery, Chaparral Lake, Lovington Aquatic Center use, and City buildings and fire department use, have been documented in the past (Leedshill-Herkenhoff, Inc., 2000). In addition, water systems typically have unbilled authorized consumption such as metered main flushing, sewer cleaning, potable well flushing, and non-potable production. 7.3 Water Demand Projections Water demand projections for years 2014 to 2053 presented in Table 10 and Figure 9, in terms of total diversions, are based on projected population growth and projected total GPCD water use. Based on available data on total GPCD use between 1996 and 2000, current total GPCD use is estimated at about 310 GPCD. In the absence of additional data to quantify current water use, it was assumed that the City can achieve total GPCD use of 242 GPCD by the end of the 40-year planning period. It may be possible to reduce GPCD use below 242 by the end of the 40-year planning period depending on commercial and industrial demand for water; however, as the City grows over the next 40 years, the proportion of City water used for commercial and industrial purposes will likely grow, and the proportion of City water used for residential purposes will likely decrease.

27 JSAI 20 Table 9. Historical water use for City of Lovington year total metered diversions, ac-ft total metered deliveries, ac-ft residential deliveries, ac-ft commercial deliveries, ac-ft other deliveries b, ac-ft population served total GPCD c residential GPCD d ,800 a 2,192 1, , ,212 2, , ,739 3, , ,125 3, , a estimated based on totals for the water year October through September b industrial deliveries and municipal deliveries such as ball fields, Lovington Aquatic Center, Chaparral Lake, cemetery, fire department, and City buildings c [metered diversions] / population served d [residential metered deliveries] / population served italics - interpolated from U.S. Census data ac-ft - acre-feet GPCD - gallons per capita per day -- data not available

28 JSAI 21 Table 10. Water demand projections for City of Lovington time period City of Lovington population total GPCD use projected water demand, ac-ft/yr , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,157 GPCD - gallons per capita per day ac-ft/yr - acre-feet per year The total GPCD goal of 242 GPCD is conservative, as other water systems in the region have much more aggressive goals; for example, Las Cruces has a total GPCD goal of 180 GPCD by 2045, and Jal and Alamogordo have total GPCD goals of 165 GPCD by It should be noted that approximately 24 percent of Alamogordo s current demand is from wastewater reuse, and Alamogordo s total GPCD goal without wastewater reuse would be 216 GPCD. Compared to City of Lovington, current water diversions and water use are better-quantified for these water systems, and based on available data, current total GPCD use appears to be much lower for these systems. It should also be noted that larger communities may have higher capital to invest in their water systems to minimize water losses and implement conservation measures. A 2009 preliminary 40-year planning document for Hobbs indicates current total GPCD use of 250 to 300 GPCD, and a goal of 264 GPCD, based on projected population and total water demands in In the absence of additional data to quantify current water use for City of Lovington, a conservative total GPCD goal of 242 GPCD is presented here. Water demand projections presented in Table 10 demonstrate the need for the City s 6, ac-ft/yr total water rights and permits for municipal use plus about 140 ac-ft/yr. These projections would allow the City to maintain the ability to serve future commercial and industrial accounts, including additional water demand related to a potential expansion of the nearby refinery that could be served by City wells in close proximity to the refinery, and potential future development of a water park to be served by the City. It is contemplated that a water park may be developed after 10 years, using about 58 ac-ft/yr (19 million gallons per year, or about 160,000 gallons per day for 120 days a year).

29 JSAI 22 Due to the potential need to use the City s existing wells and water rights for pollution control purposes in the future, a 10 percent pollution control safety factor should be applied. The safety factor assumes that up to 10 percent of the City s existing rights will need to be used for pollution control in the future. Thus, about 756 ac-ft/yr in additional rights (140 ac-ft/yr plus 10 percent of 40-year projected demand) will need to be acquired and transferred to meet the City s demand for potable water supply. 8.0 WATER CONSERVATION 8.1 Baseline Water Conservation SCADA and Metering The City of Lovington water and wastewater departments use supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems to control pumping levels, pump hand off auto (HOA) controls, and lift station pumps. The water department has implemented a radio read meter system with GPS locations on meters and leak detection. However, some City wells have meters that are out of service and some City wells are unmetered Water Rates The City s water rate structure imposes additional costs on residential water uses that use over 3,000 gallons per month (gal/mon) and commercial customers that use over 5,000 gal/mon (Table 11; Appendix D). Under City Ordinances Nos. 482 and 483, water rates may be automatically adjusted to conform to period adjustments of the consumer price index (CPI). Table 11. Current water rate structure for monthly water billing, City of Lovington quantity monthly minimum cost additional cost per 1,000 gallons comments commercial water rates first 5,000 gallons $23.92 automatically adjusted to conform to periodic over 5,000 gallons $1.45 adjustments of CPI residential water rates first 3,000 gallons $15.91 automatically adjusted to conform to periodic over 3,000 gallons $1.41 adjustments of CPI CPI - consumer price index

30 JSAI Water Reclamation The City reclaims about 840 ac-ft/yr (0.75 million gallons per day) of wastewater. The reclaimed wastewater is used to irrigate non-food crops at the City farm Water Protection Ordinance In an attempt to mitigate the potential for contamination of the City s potable groundwater supply, the City adopted Ordinance No. 449 requiring City-issued permits for drilling operations or re-entry within the City s well field, notification of the City engineer within 15 days of a leak or spill incident, annual leak surveying and reporting, and banning the drilling of disposal wells or conversion of existing wells into disposal wells within the City s well field. Ordinance No. 449 is included as Appendix E. 8.2 Water Conservation Plan Data Collection and Water System Audit The City should collect monthly data on metered water diversions and all authorized metered water deliveries including billed, unbilled, and bulk water deliveries. Monthly data on metered water deliveries should be broken down into categories of billed authorized use such as residential, commercial, industrial, City parks/ball fields/cemetery, Lovington Aquatic Center, Chaparral Lake, fire department, and City buildings, and unbilled authorized use, such as metered main flushing, sewer cleaning, potable well flushing, and non-potable production. Authorized water deliveries should be metered to the extent possible in order to minimize unmetered authorized water deliveries and provide useful data for the water system audit. Once comprehensive monthly data have been collected for a 2-year period, these data should be analyzed and a water system audit performed. The audit would compare the amount of authorized metered water deliveries on a monthly basis to the amount of water diverted from wells. The audit may be performed by an upper-level water operator or a professional service, following guidelines set forth by the American Water Works Association (AWWA, 2009), and could be funded by rate payers or through grant(s). Table 12 presents water balance categories for a water system, according to AWWA terminology.

31 JSAI 24 Table 12. American Water Works Association water balance authorized deliveries billed authorized a unbilled authorized b billed metered billed unmetered unbilled metered unbilled unmetered revenue unauthorized total water diverted apparent losses c customer metering inaccuracies systematic data handling errors non-revenue water losses leakage on transmission and/or distribution lines real losses d leakage and overflows at Utility storage tanks leakage on service connections a examples include metered deliveries for residential, commercial, industrial, City parks/ball fields/cemetery, Chaparral Lake, fire department, and City buildings b examples include metered main flushing, sewer cleaning, potable well flushing, non-potable production c examples include theft and vandalism, customer metering inaccuracies, and data handling errors d examples include line leakage, and storage tank leakage and overflow A water loss reduction plan should be prepared based on the water system audit. The AWWA has set an industry standard goal of less than 10 percent for water losses (AWWA, 1996). The water system audit would identify and quantify sources of water losses, and the water loss reduction plan would identify how to further reduce water losses in the future Evaluation of Water Rate Structure An evaluation of the City s water rate structure should be conducted after two full years of monthly data collection of metered water deliveries data (see Section 7.2.1). The evaluation would compare the existing rate structure to those for other water systems in the region, determine whether rates are representative of the true cost of service, and determine whether the existing structure is effective in discouraging wasteful water use.

32 JSAI Infrastructure Improvements The Infrastructure and Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) for City of Lovington includes several water-supply projects that will help reduce water losses. Table 13 presents some of the applicable ICIP projects. Table 13. Water-related projects in the City of Lovington Infrastructure and Capital Improvement Plan project 2015 funding 2016 funding 2017 funding water rights/well construction $1,800,000 $4,300,000 - replace water meters $350,000 $200,000 - irrigation system Chaparral Park $800, build 3MG water storage tank - - $3,535, Evaluation of Water Reclamation The City reclaims about 840 ac-ft/yr (0.75 million gallons per day) of wastewater to irrigate non-food crops at the City farm. Treatment of reclaimed water should be evaluated in order to determine whether additional treatment would allow for more flexibility in the use of reclaimed water, thereby reducing total groundwater diversions. If wastewater treatment could be implemented to bring the quality of the reclaimed wastewater to Class 1B (suitable for uses in which public exposure is likely), and additional infrastructure developed, the reclaimed water could be used for irrigation of City parks, ball fields, and cemetery, and Chaparral Lake. If the quality of the reclaimed wastewater could be brought to Class 1A (highest quality wastewater and potential to be most broadly utilized except for direct consumption), it could be used for irrigation of food crops.

33 JSAI WATER DEVELOPMENT PLAN 9.1 Implementation of Water Conservation Plan The City should implement the components of the Water Conservation Plan described in Section 8.2, above. Data on water diversions and deliveries will allow the City to quantify nonrevenue water and water losses, prepare a water system audit, evaluate water rates, identify ways to minimize water losses, and develop projections for future water demands and goals for GPCD water use. These data should be used to make water-supply management decisions to meet water demands over the 40-year planning period. Execution of planned water projects in the City s ICIP will help minimize water losses. Evaluation of treatment of reclaimed water will help determine whether additional treatment would allow for more flexibility in the use of reclaimed water, thereby reducing total groundwater diversions. 9.2 Groundwater Level Monitoring Program The City should implement a groundwater level monitoring program in order to monitor non-pumping and pumping water levels in City well fields, identify any short-term and/or longterm water-level trends, and update estimates of remaining saturated thickness in the vicinity of City well fields over the 40-year planning period. Groundwater level monitoring data would be used to make water-supply management decisions to meet water demands over the 40-year planning period. The groundwater level monitoring program should include active supply wells and nearby inactive wells. When collecting water-level measurements, the measuring point should be noted, and it should be noted whether the well was pumping at the time of the measurement, and the corresponding instantaneous pumping rate. Measurements should be taken on a monthly basis, or quarterly basis at a minimum. 9.3 Update of 40-Year Water Development Plan and Conservation Plan Based on results of implementation of the Water Conservation Plan described in Section 8.2 and the Groundwater Level Monitoring Program, the 40-Year Water Development Plan and Water Conservation Plan should be updated within 5 years of the current study. The updated 40-Year Plan would include new data on water diversions and deliveries, water system audit results, evaluation of the water rate structure and water reclamation, and water-level trends in active supply wells and nearby inactive wells. Based on analysis of new data, the updated 40-Year Plan would include projections for future water demand and goals for GPCD water use.

34 JSAI 27 Based on analysis of new data, the updated Water Conservation Plan would potentially include additional water-conserving measures, such as: Water conservation programs to encourage lower water use for residential and commercial landscaping, possibly including City lead-by-example programs and educational programs Landscaping ordinance for new development that maximizes water efficiency through mulching, zoning plantings, amending soil, xeriscaping, and irrigation design Watering ordinance to discourage water customers from irrigating landscaping during peak-evaporation hours Re-structuring of water rates to discourage wasteful water use Additional treatment of reclaimed water, and expanded use of reclaimed water Additional ICIP projects to minimize water losses 9.4 Acquisition and Transfer of Water Rights Water demand projections, which take into consideration a total GPCD goal of 242 GPCD, potential future commercial and industrial demand, and a 10-percent pollution control safety factor, indicate the need for up to 756 ac-ft/yr in additional rights. To meet future demand, the City may acquire and transfer rights held by Lea County to a property located about 3 miles west of town in Sections 1 through 3 of Township 16 South, Range 35 East. This property could be made available to the City, and appears to have adequate aquifer saturated thickness and lower potential for groundwater contamination. The City may also consider the property in Sections 1 through 3 for the transfer of its existing water rights and permits, based on the risk of contamination in their current locations. If the City transfers existing rights to an alternate location, the refinery may want to take over City wells (but not the City-owned rights) in the well field south of town. The water demand analysis presented in this 40-Year Plan would also allow the City to serve additional water demand related to a potential expansion of the nearby refinery, which could be served by City wells in close proximity to the refinery. Preliminary analysis has indicated that at least 600 ac-ft/yr could be transferred to the property in Sections 1 through 3 without exceeding the Basin Guidelines allowable average drawdown criteria in CMAs or non-cmas, but a complete analysis would need to be performed to determine the exact amount that could be transferred. A complete analysis of the potential water rights transfer would need to consider the move-from location(s) of the rights to be transferred, and would also need to include an analysis of impacts on neighboring wells based on model-

35 JSAI 28 predicted drawdown results, and possibly Theis drawdown calculations for any neighboring wells within very close proximity. A site investigation of the move-to property to evaluate the potential for groundwater contamination should also be performed. It may be advisable for the City to begin the process of transferring rights as soon as possible, as aquifer saturated thickness declines over time, and other entities continue to file applications to transfer rights, thereby making it increasingly difficult over time to transfer rights under the Basin Guidelines ADDITIONAL WATER-SUPPLY DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES 10.1 Aquifer Storage and Recovery Reclaimed wastewater would be a potential source of water for an aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) project. As water-quality standards for reclaimed water become more stringent, injection and recharge of the aquifer may become the preferred method of managing reclaimed water. An ASR feasibility study should include evaluating areas where proposed 40-year drawdowns are projected to be the greatest. The feasibility study should include evaluation of the percentage of water that can be recovered versus water lost to the regional groundwater system or recovered by other nearby users. NMSA 72-5A-6 (1978, NMSA 72-5A-1 to 72-5A-17 Ground Water Storage and Recovery Act) and NMAC (Natural Resources and Wildlife, Administration and Use of Water General Provisions, Underground Storage and Recovery) specify requirements for ASR projects. The application procedure for an Underground Storage and Recovery Permit is a two-step process involving a pilot/demonstration project and a full-scale project. Water stored in an aquifer for subsequent diversion for beneficial use pursuant to these regulations is not available for appropriation and is not subject to forfeiture pursuant to NMSA 1978, (1907) or (1931) Desalination Desalination of brackish or saline groundwater from deep aquifers in the Lea County Underground Water Basin could create usable water resources. Costs to desalinate brackish water are proportional to the TDS concentrations, and increase sharply for water with TDS concentrations over 10,000 mg/l. The majority of deeper groundwater resources in the Permian-age rocks underlying the Basin have TDS concentrations over 10,000 mg/l (JSAI, 2004 second draft). A significant cost component of inland desalination systems is the disposal of the brine that is generated.

36 JSAI REFERENCES [AWWA] American Water Works Association, 1996, Leak detection and water accountability committee report: water accountability: Journal AWWA, v. 88, n. 7, p [AWWA] American Water Works Association, 2009, Water audits and loss control programs: AWWA Manual M36, 204 p. plus appendices. [JSAI] John Shomaker & Associates, Inc., 2004 second draft, Lea County deep aquifer study: consultant s report prepared for Lea County Water Users Association, 23 p. plus figures and appendix. [JSAI] John Shomaker & Associates, Inc., 2009, 40-year water development plan for Lea County, New Mexico: consultant s report prepared for Lea County, New Mexico, 34 p. plus appendix. Leedshill-Herkenhoff, Inc., John Shomaker & Associates, Inc., and Montgomery & Andrews, P.A., 2000, Lea County Regional Water Plan: consultant s report prepared for Lea County Water Users Association. [NMOSE] New Mexico Office of the State Engineer, 2009, Lea County Underground Water Basin guidelines for review of water right applications: guidelines adopted by State Engineer John R. D Antonio on September 16, 2009, 19 p. Tillery, A., 2008, Current ( ) conditions and changes in ground-water levels from predevelopment to 2007, southern High Plains aquifer, southeast New Mexico Lea County Underground Water Basin: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Map 3044.

37 JSAI ILLUSTRATIONS

38 70 Causey Lingo «262 ³ Roosevelt County «508 «125 Roswell Artesian «172 Chaves County Lea County « Lea County «206 Tatum NEW MEXICO TEXAS «249 Lovington «83 Loco Hills Maljamar «238 «132 «483 «18 «360 Eddy County «529 Hobbs Capitan « Miles «176 «31 Figure 1. Aerial photograph for City of Lovington area showing the Lea County Underground Water Basin, Lea County, New Mexico.

39 T16S; R36E T17S; R36E W L-5486 (Well 21) (arrow points into page) E Lovington elevation, ft amsl (35x vertical exaggeration) 2,140,000 2,150,000 3,800 3,700 L-4058-S-17 (Well 11) 11,940,000 L-4058-S-14 (Well 2) 11,950,000 11,960,000 water level top-of-red-beds UTM Easting, UTM83, ft 2,160,000 3,500 UTM Northing, UTM83, ft Figure 2. Three-dimensional diagram showing aquifer saturated thickness based on water-level elevations and top-of-red-bed elevations, and selected active supply wells for City of Lovington, looking east-to-west in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, Lea County, New Mexico.

40 L-5486 (Well 21) L-4058-S-17 (Well 11) L-4058-S-14 (Well 2) water level elevation, ft amsl (35x vertical exaggeration) 3,800 3,700 top-of-red-beds N (arrow points into page) S 3,600 2,140,000 2,150,000 2,160,000 UTM Easting, UTM83, ft 11,950,000 11,940,000 11,930,000 UTM Northing, UTM83, ft Figure 3. Three-dimensional diagram showing aquifer saturated thickness based on water-level elevations and top-of-red-bed elevations, and selected active supply wells for City of Lovington, looking south-to-north in Township 16 South, Range 36 East, Lea County, New Mexico.

41 60-80 City of Lovington city limits NMOSE model grid saturated thickness >=0 and <= T18S 40-60R35E T17S R37E T17S R36E Explanation southern well field saturated thickness, ft T16S R37E T16S R36E T16S R35E T17S R35E ³ T15S R36E T15S R35E T18S R36E 0 3,000 6,000 T18S R37E 12,000 Feet Figure 4. Map showing NMOSE model-predicted saturated thickness in 2045 in the vicinity of City of Lovington, Lea County, New Mexico.

42 T15S R36E 35 T15S R35E 5 31 L-4058-S L-4058-S-7 L-4058-S-9 L-4058-S-5 L-4058 L-208 L-208-POD9 L-4058-S-3 L-4058-S-8 L-4058-S-2 L-70-S L-4058-S-4 L ³ L L-4058-S-12 L-70-S L-4058-S T16S R37E T16S R36E L-53-A-A L-4058-S-17 L-4058-S L-4508-S-25 L-4984-S-19! E (!! L-4058-S-31 E (! L-4058-S-18! (! E L-4508-S-26 L-1719 L-1702, L-1703 & L-1704-Comb-A! E ( L-4058-S-19! Explanation 1,500 8 active supply 4well 3 2 L-1716 City of Lovington city limits 3,000 32! E (! L-4984-S-4 L-5486-S-23 well 0 29 (! E L-1718! L-4984-S-3 E (! L-4508-S-21! (! E! L-4058-S-15! (! E (! E L-4984-S-2! L-4058-S-23(T) (! E! 31 (! E! 36 (! E L-5486-S! (! E L-4058-S-16! L-4508-S-22! (! T17S E 5 R36E 30 (! E! (! E 32 20! L-4058-S-27 L-4058-S-30 L-4058-S ,000 Feet L-5486! (! E L T17S R37E Figure 5. Aerial map showing City of Lovington wells, Lea County, New Mexico.

43 ³ T15S R35E T15S R36E!<!< "S"S "J "S "S"S 3920 "S "S!H!C!C "J 3930 "J!<!<!H "J"J "T "S 3850!<!<!<!H!H!<!< 3840!<!<!< "J"J"J "J WWTP "J "S "J "J"J T16S R35E 3910 "S"S T16S R36E ") Lovington Cheese Plant "S"S T16S R37E 3900 "J "J "S"S "S "S"S "J "S 3830 "S "S "S "J "J"J "S"S "S"S"S 3820 "S "J "J "S"S "S"S ") "S"S "J "J "J"J "S"S"S"S "J"J "S "S "J"J "S "J "S"S"S "J "S "J"J "S"S "J"J "J ") "T "S"S "S"S "J "S "S "S"S "S "S ") "S"S "T "J "S "S "J "S"S"S "S"S "S Navajo Lovington Refinery 3720 Araho, Inc.!C "J "J "J"J"J Landmark Dairy 3730!C T17S R35E T17S R36E T17S R37E NMED discharge permit!c NMED discharge permit - dairy!h NMED/PSTB active leaking petroleum site!< NMED/PSTB no-further-action petroleum site T18S 0 3,000 6,000 R35E 12,000 Feet Explanation ") OCD AP site "T OCD GW site "J OCD spill "S OCD spill, 1RP site T18S R36E water-level elevation contour, ft amsl, southern well field City of Lovington city limits T18S R37E Figure 6. Aerial photograph showing City of Lovington southern well field, locations of sites identified by NMED and OCD that represent potential point sources of pollution in and around City well fields, and water-table elevation contours, Lea County, New Mexico.