The Central Rio Grande Valley 



Location, Area and Development 



HE RIO GRANDE, upon entering New Mexico 

 from Colorado flows for many miles through a 

 series of deep canyons, with high, precipitous walls 

 allowing no opportunity for the diversion of its 

 waters for irrigation purposes. Near the town of 

 Espanola, north of Santa Fe, the valley widens for 

 a short distance to form the Espanola valley. 

 Thereafter it enters White Rock Canyon to emerge 

 in eastern Sandoval county into a broad level val- 

 ley, varying in width from one to six miles and 

 continuing thus across the southeastern corner of 

 Sandoval county, through the center of Bernalillo 

 county and across the eastern section of Valencia county. This district, 

 from White Rock Canyon to a point considerably below the southern 

 boundary of Valencia county is known as the Central Rio Grande Valley. 

 one of the most fertile irrigated districts in the world and destined to be- 

 come one of the world's most productive areas. 



The Rio Grande has been called the Nile of America, and the region 

 along its course in Central New Mexico bears a striking resemblance in 

 scenery, topography and to a certain extent, in conditions to the valley of 

 the Nile. Many interesting volumes could be written of the topography, 

 the geology, the climate and the magnificent scenery of this region. They 

 are worthy of all the attention that can be given. From the high mesas 

 or table lands which shield the valley on either side like protecting 

 walls, may be seen with the naked eye the towering peaks of whole 

 groups of mighty mountain ranges, ten, thirty, fifty and even eighty 

 miles away; while but a little distance to the east, shadowing the valley 

 for four-fifths of its length, rise the picturesque Sandia and Manzano 

 ranges, rugged and colorful, presenting an ever changing panorama of 

 lights and shadows as the few fleecy clouds of the land of sunshine float 



The Bio Grande at Barelas Bridge — Albuquerqiie 



