Spring Runoff Forecast, Evictions Return to Bernco. & Elephant Enclosure Criticisms | 4.11.22

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

Bernalillo County is the latest to end its moratorium on non-payment evictions. Our Line Opinion Panelists explain why they think there hasn’t been a rush to kick people out of their homes, and the programs available for people who are struggling to pay rent.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service issues spring forecasts for western rivers, including the Rio Grande. Hydrologist Angus Goodbody, with the agency’s National Water and Climate Center, speaks with correspondent Laura Paskus about the spring forecast for the Rio Grande Basin. He also explains why the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s streamflow “normals” have recently changed—and what that means for the future.

Animal Rights Group In Defense of Animals, IDA, recently ranked the Albuquerque Zoo as second worst in the U.S. for elephant habitats, in part because of a pair of recent deaths. Host Gene Grant talks with Brittany Michelson of IDA to learn more about what the criticisms involve and what changes the group would like to see. (note: we invited the ABQ Bipark to participate in this discussion as well, but so far that invitation has been declined.)

Correspondents:

Gene Grant

Laura Paskus

Guests:

Angus Goodbody, forecast hydrologist, USDA-NRCS

Brittany Michelson, In Defense of Animals

Line Opinion Panelists:

Serge Martinez, professor, UNM Law School

Sophie Martin, attorney

Justine Fox-Young, former state representative

For More Information:

National Water and Climate Center, USDA-NRCS

NRCS Seasonal Streamflow Normals for Rio Grande Stations

New Mexico NRCS Snow Survey Program

New Mexico Basin-Wide Interactive SNOTEL Graphs

Non-Payment Evictions Begin Friday in Bernalillo County – Source NM

Battle Heats Up Over Remaining Federal Rental Assistance – Albuquerque Journal

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