Trapped by confining strata, the Kirkland, Fruitland, and Lewis shale produce oil and gas in the San Juan Basin.
Only remnants of these formations are found in the Rio Chama Watershed along the NM Principal Meridian.
Evaporation of resurfaced water probably produced salinity and undrinkable water in the San Juan Basin, but east of the Continental Divide groundwater is potable.
Groundwater in the Rio Chama Watershed is recharged and even retained at elevations in excess of 9,000 feet.
Contamination of the Rios Gallina and Chama Watersheds would squander on of New Mexico's precious resources.