New Mexico Statutes Chapter 72. Water Law § 72-14-10. Power to purchase, exchange and condemn property

The interstate stream commission, in addition to all other powers now vested in it, shall have power to acquire, by purchase, or exchange upon such terms and conditions and in such manner as it may deem proper, and to acquire by condemnation in accordance with and subject to the provisions of any and all existing laws applicable to the condemnation of property for public use, any land, rights, water rights, easements, franchises and other property deemed necessary or proper for the construction, operation and maintenance of such works. Title to property purchased or condemned shall be taken in the name of the commission. The commission shall be under no obligation to accept and pay for any property condemned under this act except from the funds provided by this act, and in any proceedings to condemn, such orders may be made by the court having jurisdiction of the suit, action or proceedings as may be warranted by law and the facts.

The taking possession of the property sought to be condemned shall not be delayed by reason of any dispute between rival claimants or the failure to join any of them as a party to said proceedings in condemnation.