N.M. Admin. Code § 19.27.61.6
The objective of this Special Order No. 156 is to take administrative control of the underground waters within a specific area of the state, to provide for the orderly development of water rights and to protect existing water rights. The waters of the underground streams, channels, artesian basins, reservoirs or lakes having reasonable ascertainable boundaries, are public waters and are subject to appropriation for beneficial use. The Salt Basin is currently not part of a declared underground water basin. THEREFORE, the area in Otero and Chaves counties comprising approximately 2420 square miles and more fully described hereinafter as the Salt Underground Water Basin is hereby declared, subject to New Mexico statutes and the rules and regulations of the State Engineer.
N.M. Admin. Code § 19.27.61.6