New Mexico Statutes Chapter 72. Water Law § 72-4-2. Authority to acquire water rights for development of county water supply system

Each board of county commissioners of any of the several counties of the state, in addition to all other powers vested in it, is empowered to acquire, by purchase or exchange upon such terms and conditions and in such manner as a commission 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 water rights or any portion thereof within its county limits deemed necessary or proper for public use for the development of a county water supply system. Title to property so acquired or condemned shall be taken in the name of the county.