Reopening of Alumni Pond postponed as evaluation continues
NMSU postponed the reopening of Alumni Pond after the reconstructed pond used more water than anticipated during final evaluation.
NMSU paused filling operations after the reconstructed pond used more water than anticipated; fish restocking also has been postponed.
Tatiana Favela, New Mexico State University
LAS CRUCES - New Mexico State University is conducting a final evaluation of the newly reconstructed Alumni Pond to ensure the pond operates as intended before reopening to the campus community and public.
The project team, design engineers and NMSU personnel have been closely monitoring water levels and assessing the pond's performance at its optimal operating level, including its ability to support fully submerged aquatic vegetation and long-term sustainability goals.
According to Jose Loera, executive director of Project Development and Engineering, recent observations led the university and its partners to conduct an additional review before moving forward with reopening plans.
"We are committed to being responsible stewards of our water resources and ensuring that Alumni Pond performs as designed," Loera said. "When it became apparent that the pond was using more water than anticipated, NMSU, along with our engineers and contractor, made the decision to pause filling operations and conduct a more thorough evaluation. Our team is working diligently to determine the best path forward and ensure the pond operates as intended."
As part of this ongoing evaluation, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has agreed to postpone restocking the pond until reopening plans are finalized.
NMSU appreciates the continued patience and support of the campus community and public as this work progresses. The university remains committed to reopening Alumni Pond and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.
Tatiana Favela writes for New Mexico State University Marketing and Communications and can be reached at 575-646-7953, or by email at tfavela5@nmsu.edu.
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