Carlsbad Caverns National Park (CAVE) in southern New Mexico manages a separate unit from the main park - Rattlesnake Springs. Rattlesnake Springs is the only water source for nearly 400,000 visitors to Carlsbad Caverns National Park each year. The park is located in the midst of active oil and gas development in the Permian Basin and nearby irrigated agricultural lands. The park is concerned about how this human development could potentially affect both the water quality and quantity available at Rattlesnake Springs, especially as the effects of climate change continue to impact this desert environment. Algal blooms have increased in recent years at the pond supplied by Rattlesnake Springs and there is concern that upgradient agricultural development is contributing excess nutrients to the spring.

The purpose of this investigation is to characterize potential contamination of water quality at Rattlesnake Springs, managed by Carlsbad National Park. Several oil and gas well pads and agricultural lands are located in areas upgradient and surrounding the spring. Thid investigation is necessary to properly assess any contributing impacts to water quality that may be caused by surrounding human development. With increasing algal blooms in recent years, there is concern of contamination influencing water quality. Water quality is vital to maintaining a healthy ecosystem - analyzing the potential contamination will support the park’s mission to preserve and maintain its natural and cultural resources.