Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) –The New Mexico Environment Department is utilizing a satellite-based leak detection program to help rural communities quickly identify and repair leaks in drinking water systems. ” LeakTracer”, as it’s called, uses radar satellite data and artificial intelligence to proactively detect leaks in rural water systems. Rural water systems serving fewer than 20,000 people and in good standing with the Rural Infrastructure Loan Program are eligible to participate in LeakTracer at no cost. Systems are only responsible for repair costs if leaks are identified. A pilot program where LeakTracer was deployed in five New Mexico communities identified more than 78 verified leaks and saved an estimated 345,000 gallons of water per day during the first half of 2025.
