[1] Historically, ditch irrigation was used for centuries by the indigenous peoples of the Southwest, however the Spanish colonialists have been credited with bringing knowledge of engineering and irrigation/water regulation law to New Mexico.

"[3] The Acequia Madre originates near the location of the Los Cerros Reservoir in the southeastern area of Santa Fe, and extends west for several miles.

Several historical houses are adjacent to the ditch, some of those along the south side still use acequia water to irrigate orchards, alfalfa and other grain fields, vegetable gardens.

It was a Spanish custom to deed land in parcels in long and narrow strips to such that each property had equal access to the acequia water.

These three women "who would not be constrained by societal codes" devoted their lives to cultural conservation, including the study of Northern New Mexico ethnobotany, Native American songs and languages, Southwestern architecture and folk art.