Environmental advocates gathered along the Rio Grande to demand stronger protections for New Mexico’s rivers and waterways as drought conditions strained the state’s largest river earlier than in previous years, KRQE reports. The demonstration, organized by New Mexico Wild, aimed to raise public awareness about the river’s challenges.
Standing hand in hand across the Rio Grande, dozens of activists sang before walking through the Bosque and onto the dry riverbed. Among them was Cheryl Landgren, who said seeing the river in its current condition inspired her to take part. "The Rio Grande is my river, and it just hurts to see it in crisis," Landgren told KRQE.
New Mexico Wild River and Waters Program Director Tricia Snyder said worsening drought conditions underscore the need for stronger protections, warning that the state should expect less water and higher temperatures. Organizers encouraged attendees to sign a petition urging lawmakers to strengthen protections.
About This Story
Daily Reports is Brant.One’s news roundup. Each day we gather the New Mexico stories worth knowing from newsrooms across the state, sum them up and point you to the source. This one comes from KRQE’s reporting, and their original story has the interviews and full details.
Editor’s note: Updated Oct. 31, 2026. This story is now part of Daily Reports, our New Mexico news roundup, and was revised to credit KRQE’s original reporting. Learn how Daily Reports works in our editorial standards.

