WATR Alliance Argues Oil Wastewater Could Be Used Safely

6.19.26 – In May 2025, the state’s Water Quality Control Commission adopted a rule that only allows treated wastewater to be used on oil and gas fields and in limited pilot projects. But a trade association called the “Water, Access, Treatment and Reuse Alliance” (WATR Alliance) wants the state to let oil and gas companies use the wastewater for construction, industrial and even agricultural purposes. Capital and Main journalist and In Focus correspondent Jerry Redfern sat down with Matthias Sayer, an attorney and WATR Alliance vice president, to talk about wastewater and whether the science is sound on its safe uses. 

Correspondent: Jerry Redfern 

Guest: Matthias Sayer, Attorney, WATR Alliance 

For More Information: 
Water board advances petition for new rules on New Mexico’s oil and gas wastewater – Source New Mexico