New Mexico launches AI-powered initiative to spot water leaks
(UI) — New Mexico is teaming up with Google Public Sector and Woolpert Digital Innovations on a new initiative called Hydro Delta, aiming to tackle water leaks statewide using advanced technology. The program uses satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to detect water leaks, many of which are hidden underground and difficult to identify.
Hydro Delta will enable the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) to provide detailed, reliable data to local agencies, improving water management and potentially saving millions of gallons of water and dollars.
"Hydro Delta is a game-changer for New Mexico's drinking water, especially those systems serving rural New Mexicans," said Environment Secretary James Kenney. The initiative aligns with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's 50-Year Water Action Plan, which aims to secure the state’s water resources amid growing climate challenges.
In some New Mexico communities, outdated infrastructure causes significant water loss, with up to 70% of treated water leaking out. These leaks are particularly problematic for smaller communities with limited resources. Hydro Delta uses Google’s Geospatial AI platform, Earth Engine, to detect leaks by analyzing millions of satellite images and identifying anomalies in key water indicators like soil moisture and vegetation health.
"Ensuring access to clean, reliable drinking water is a priority for every state, and Hydro Delta showcases New Mexico's innovative leadership in using AI to protect this critical resource," said Brent Mitchell, vice president, Go-to-Market at Google Public Sector.
Once a leak is identified, NMED notifies the affected water system for further investigation. Federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides grants and loans to assist local water systems in repairing leaks and upgrading infrastructure.
Hydro Delta is part of a broader push to reduce water loss in New Mexico and serves as a model for other states looking to enhance water security. NMED estimates the initiative could save local water systems up to $154 million by preventing leaks.
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