Groundwater

The archaeological site of the Quarai Unit in New Mexico is home to a historic acequia that was used for irrigation and supporting the local agricultural lands. The acequia, which connects to the drainage approximately 100 feet upstream of the current park boundary, was managed by the Punta de Agua Ditch Association until 1972. The use of the acequia is currently under research as an archaeological survey is being conducted at the Quarai unit.

The Ancestral Pueblos developed techniques to conserve water in the arid Southwest desert, leading to new forms of production and societal development. Women began making ceramic pots to hold surplus corn, squash, and beans, and large vessels for water. They also wove baskets for harvest collection. Historians believe the Ancestral Puebloans, Mogollon, and Hohokam were the earliest farmers in America, with corn being the first crop grown. The Hohokam built one of the greatest irrigation systems in history, allowing them to cultivate beans and squash in addition to corn.

Pueblo people sought water sources, primarily from springs in canyons. They created pottery vessels called Olla, which kept water inside pots and prevented it from sloshing out over the ground. They also built reservoirs, which pooled and conserved water during spring and summer. Rincons, angular recesses in rock formations on canyon cliff sides, channel rainfall to drought-stricken high desert regions, affecting precipitation levels and influencing the Ancestral Pueblo people's lifestyle. The most significant crop commodities were corn, beans, and squash, known as the "three sisters," which met many nutritional requirements. Water was crucial for successful agriculture in this arid climate, leading the Ancestral Pueblo people to create water-saving practices such as terracing, check dams, and waffle or grid gardens.

Flood threats appear to be moderate in the Abó and Quarai Units, as floodplain maps reveal ruins and structures over the 100-year flood level. The Quarai Unit's springs produce consistent flow, supporting 5 acres of vital riparian vegetation and 2 acres of private property downstream. The major arroyo creates a 500-foot valley of ancient trees and flora.

The Gran Quivira Unit receives comparable precipitation but lacks surface water. Archaeologists have been investigating the water source used by the ancient Indian community of 1,500 people in Gran Quivira, a mostly waterless environment. Theories have been presented, including taking advantage of wetter climates, retaining more water in playas, and potentially flowing springs. However, no evidence supports this theory, and shallow wells were likely used without ditch systems.