Representing a broad alliance of organizations lead by Amigos Bravos, the Western Environmental Law Center successfully defended the people’s right to clean water. Astounding as it may seem, certain industry and trade groups like the New Mexico Mining Association and the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association wanted to limit the State of New Mexico’s ability to protect water quality in all of New Mexico’s waters. At risk if these groups won? Waters in closed basins (40% of waters in the state) as well as ephemeral and intermittent (non-perennial) streams (80% of waters in the state).  WELC attorneys defeated the  industries' challenge and helped the State of New Mexico  retain its strong water quality standards.

Attorney: Erik Schlenker-Goodrich and Matt Bishop