Acequias: Building Social Resilience in Española, New Mexico

Abstract

Facing decades of debilitating social issues and a changing climate, this design research explores the historical importance of acequia systems in Española, New Mexico, to help re-imagine the future of the city. Española currently experiences poverty and a lack of economic opportunity caused by years of land use, urbanization, and shifting economies poorly suited for its unique culture. This investigation utilizes the city’s existing acequia infrastructure to propose a connecting network of open spaces. The site design of a single node in the proposed system focuses on moving the community towards food, water, and energy security to establish a sustainable community and generate economic opportunity. As a guiding framework, the research investigates the traditional acequias landscape and permaculture to reinterpret acequias as a catalyst for a new community hub. Providing intergenerational knowledge through environmental stewardship and support for the Española’s community. Ultimately proving opportunity for the community to connect will help move the city towards a greater social resiliency.