The City of Santa Rosa is providing an update regarding a reported sewer manhole overflow impacting an area near the Pecos River.
The sewer line and associated manhole involved in this incident are owned and operated by The GEO Group and are located on private property. The City of Santa Rosa does not own or maintain this infrastructure. Responsibility for operation, monitoring, and maintenance of this line rests with its owner/operator.
The City was first notified of the situation on April 6, 2026. Upon notification, City personnel promptly initiated coordination with the owner/operator and appropriate regulatory agencies to support timely response and compliance with applicable environmental requirements.
At this time, the line is reported to be flowing. Based on preliminary information provided by the operator and contractors, the issue appears to have involved a blockage within the manhole structure. GEO Group has initiated corrective actions and has retained Advanced Environmental Solutions to perform assessment, cleanup, and remediation activities.
The City of Santa Rosa is working in coordination with the New Mexico Environment Department, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, New Mexico Corrections Department, the owner/operator, and its contractors to ensure appropriate technical assistance, environmental protections, and response actions are implemented.
The City remains committed to protecting public health and the environment and will continue to cooperate with all agencies involved. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available through the appropriate regulatory and response agencies.
For questions, please contact the City of Santa Rosa at (575) 472-3193.
City of Santa Rosa Administrator
Richard A. Perea, M.Ed.