The City of Farmington is making a splash with the unveiling of its brand-new whitewater surf wave on the Animas River. A community ribbon cutting is set for Thursday, June 26 at 11:00 a.m. behind the Farmington Museum (3041 E Main St).
This exciting new river feature is the first of its kind in the Four Corners region, offering adventure seekers a dynamic in-river surf wave. The nearest comparable feature is located in central Colorado, more than four hours away, making this wave a unique and highly accessible experience for both regional residents and visitors.
"Farmington continues to build its identity as an outdoor recreation destination," said Mayor Nate Duckett. "This new surf wave adds to our growing list of amenities that reflect the adventurous, connected lifestyle our residents value."
Located at Gateway Park in the center of Farmington, the wave is designed to be both fun and functional. Just downstream, a natural rock staircase on the right side of the river makes it easy for surfers to exit and re-enter the water, especially helpful for beginners learning the sport.
The surf wave is powered by an adjustable Obermeyer weir with three gates that raise or lower to shape the wave’s form based on river flow. Engineers from Southwest River Engineering are fine-tuning the system—adjusting both the rock and silt beneath the surface and calibrating the flow automation—so that once completed, the wave will self-adjust to maintain optimal performance as conditions change.
“This feature brings outdoor recreation to the next level in Farmington,” said City Manager Rob Mayes. “It’s an investment in both lifestyle and local economic development, and we’re thrilled to invite the public to experience it.”
The project is funded in part by:
- The Office of the Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
- The Office of the Natural Resource Trustee
- The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division Trails+ Grant Program
The wave is part of a broader vision for Gateway Park, which is currently under construction and includes the Market Pavilion—a space designed to host farmers markets, community events, and more, creating a vibrant connection between the river and public gathering spaces. It is also close to additional community amenities, including the Farmington Museum & Visitor Center and its outdoor terrace, and the forthcoming Gateway Plaza, reinforcing the City’s commitment to revitalizing and activating the river corridor.
Learn more at farmingtonnm.gov/wave.