by Billy Billingsley, QCHC Climate and Health Coordinator

Water is life in Quay County. It is vital for our families, our farms, and our future. Understanding our groundwater systems and monitoring their health are essential steps in ensuring safe, sustainable water for generations to come. With most of our drinking water coming from wells, understanding the science, risks, and protections surrounding our aquifers is more important than ever.

Groundwater in Quay County: What’s Beneath Our Feet?

In a recent episode of the Health IQ Podcast, the Quay County Health Council welcomed Dr. Kate Ziegler of Ziegler Geologic Consulting to discuss a topic critical to every resident of Quay County: groundwater. Dr. Ziegler and her team monitor groundwater levels and quality across eastern New Mexico. In Quay County, the majority of wells are tapping into complex aquifer systems that vary in depth and recharge capacity. While some shallower wells, those with water tables 60–70 feet deep, can recharge with rain and snow, deeper wells often access older, isolated water that doesn’t easily replenish.

There is a common belief that we’re all pulling from the Ogallala Aquifer but in reality, most domestic and livestock wells here tap into bedrock aquifers or smaller pockets of Ogallala sand and gravel.

Shrinking Supply and Diminishing Recharge

Ongoing drought conditions, higher summer temperatures, and increased water demand from agriculture and population growth are placing enormous stress on these groundwater resources. Some areas, like Clovis and Portales, are already experiencing extreme water shortages, with wells failing and restrictions in place.

Is Quay County Water Safe?

Water quality is just as vital as water quantity. In Quay County, many wells produce hard water with naturally occurring minerals. Some wells have high sulfate levels (harmful to both humans and livestock) or nitrates (particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly). In certain geological formations, like those found on the Caprock, arsenic can also be present. While these contaminants occur naturally, regular water testing is crucial. Farmers and ranchers often use this data to adjust livestock feed supplements or decide whether filtration is needed.

The Hidden Risk of Abandoned Wells

A lesser-known threat to groundwater is the presence of abandoned or “orphan” wells. These unused wells—often drilled decades ago—can act as open pathways for contaminants if left unplugged. While regulations exist requiring proper closure, enforcement is limited due to underfunded oversight agencies and the sheer number of unregistered wells.

In many cases, these wells sit forgotten in remote pastures. Still, if near livestock pens or work areas, they can pose real risks to water quality.

What Can We Do?

Be conservative with your water use, get your wells tested regularly, and don’t assume your neighbor is using the same aquifer, even if they’re just a few miles away. Ask for help in collecting data to make informed decisions, noting that most local farmers and ranchers are already highly knowledgeable about how water chemistry affects their operations.

Listen to this informative podcast here Risks to Groundwater in NM