The contracts were awarded by Reclamation's Albuquerque Area Office to Tetra Tech, Inc. of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Mussetter Engineering, Inc. of Fort Collins, Colorado. The majority of the work will focus on the Middle Rio Grande between Velarde and Elephant Butte Reservoir. The contracts also cover work on the Pecos River.

Under the contract, Tetra Tech may receive up to $3.2 million over five years. The contract with Mussetter Engineering is for $3.4 million over five years.

"These contracts will provide the quality hydrographic data collection, engineering and technical services essential for continued river management in New Mexico," said Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Robert Johnson.

Both contracts cover work that may include surveys of the river channel and floodplain; collection and analysis of river bed, floodplain, sediment or water samples; installation and operation of stream gages or data collection devices; analysis of hydrographic data; preparation of geomorphic assessment reports; and preparation of designs, drawings and cost estimates for various projects.