The project focuses on planning and designing the restoration of the nambe reservoir and one mile of the RIO nambe upstream

The Bureau of Reclamation awarded $1.03M to Nambe Pueblo Governor's Office under the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program (CFDA 15.580) on September 3, 2025, to support planning and design activities for the restoration of Nambe Reservoir and one mile of the Rio Nambe upstream in northern New Mexico. The project deliverables include a comprehensive design package encompassing sediment and debris removal plans, sediment trap maintenance protocols, vegetation management strategies, native vegetation re-vegetation plans, and solar-powered aeration device specifications to improve dissolved oxygen levels. The recipient will complete all required environmental and cultural compliance activities and produce biannual interim progress reports and a final project report documenting outcomes, benefits, and associated costs, with completion targeted for June 30, 2027.

This restoration initiative addresses multiple water quality and habitat objectives, including mitigation of wildfire impacts, improvement of dissolved oxygen levels, and enhancement of aquatic habitat conditions. As a cost-shared planning and design project under the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program, the award supports collaborative ecosystem restoration efforts that align with the program's focus on improving fisheries, wildlife, and aquatic habitat health across western states through regionally beneficial, multi-stakeholder initiatives.

The main objectives are to improve dissolved oxygen levels, mitigate wildfire impacts, and enhance water quality and aquatic habitat.key activities:sediment and debris removal: design plans for removing sediment and debris from the reservoir and river channel.sediment trap maintenance: plans for cleaning and replacing sediment traps to prevent sediment entry.vegetation management: removing dead and dying vegetation along the riverbanks.RE-vegetation: developing a plan to replant burned areas with native vegetation.aeration devices: installing solar-powered aeration devices to improve oxygen levels.compliance: completing environmental and cultural compliance activities.milestones:design package: compilation of all design documents and maintenance manuals.interim reports: biannual reports on project progress and milestones.final report: comprehensive report on project outcomes, benefits, and costs. This project aims to restore the nambe reservoir and RIO nambe, improving water quality and aquatic habitat while addressing wildfire impacts.