NMDA requests $22.5 million budget for FY26 to address key agricultural priorities
The proposed budget supports water resilience, acequia funding, market development and employee compensation improvements.
Organ Mountain News report
SANTA FE - The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is seeking $22.5 million in state funding for fiscal year 2026, a 6.7% increase from its FY25 operating budget. The request aims to address several critical areas, including water resilience, acequia funding, market development and employee compensation.
“We are committed to fostering an even stronger and more resilient agricultural sector in New Mexico, and this budget proposal is a vital step in that direction,” said Jeff Witte, New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture.
Key budget priorities
Agricultural Water Resilience Coordinator
The proposal includes funding for a new full-time position to focus on agricultural water resilience. This role will contribute to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s 50-Year Water Plan and the Water Security Planning Act. Responsibilities include providing agricultural expertise in state water policy discussions, offering technical advice on conservation measures, and serving as a liaison to irrigation communities and regional planning efforts.
The position will collaborate with entities such as the Office of the State Engineer, Interstate Stream Commission, and acequia and conservancy districts, as well as tribes and local governments.
Acequia and Community Ditch Fund
NMDA’s budget request seeks $1.25 million for the Acequia and Community Ditch Fund, which supports irrigation infrastructure and community water systems. Funding demands have consistently exceeded available resources in recent years:
- FY25 requested funding: $1.37 million (allocated: $790,675)
- FY24 requested funding: $1.45 million (allocated: $792,656)
- FY23 requested funding: $1.15 million (allocated: $794,657)
In FY24, two associations depleted their funds entirely, and one association has nearly exhausted its balance.
Value-added market development
The budget includes non-recurring funding to expand the New Mexico Grown Approved Supplier Program. This initiative connects local farmers with schools, early childcare facilities, and senior centers while ensuring food safety and traceability. Increased funding would allow more producers to participate and support the growing demand for New Mexico agricultural products.
Compensation equivalence and employee retention
As part of the New Mexico State University system, NMDA employees currently face disparities in compensation compared to other state agency employees. The budget request aims to address salary compression and improve employee retention by aligning compensation with other state agencies.
Healthcare insurance costs
The department is also seeking an additional $125,000 to cover anticipated increases in its portion of employee healthcare insurance costs.
For more details on NMDA’s budget proposal and priorities, visit NMDA’s website.