New Mexico Acequia Commission unveils new license plate

The New Mexico Acequia Commission recently revealed the design winner for its 2024 specialty license plate.

Acequias, or community ditches, are recognized under New Mexico law as political subdivisions of the state. Many of the state’s acequia associations have been in existence since the Spanish colonization period of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The winning plate was designed by the local artist Raymond Archuleta. According to the commission, Archuleta’s design “captures the essence of this time-honored tradition, which has been the lifeblood of New Mexico’s agricultural communities for centuries.”

The selected tagline, “Acequias Sangre Viva,” which translates to “Acequias Blood of Life,” was coined by Commissioner Mary Mascareñas. The acequia commission says the phrase “represents the dedication, resilience, and vibrant spirit of the communities that depend on these acequias for their livelihoods.”

The specialty plate will be made available on Jan. 1 with each purchase of the plate being directed toward the Acequia and Community Ditch Fund to help provide financial assistance for conserving and protecting the state’s water.

The plate was approved during the 2023 legislative session after being introduced by state representatives Kristina Ortez and Ambrose Castellano.