Nichols incorporates the role of water being crucial to the community well-being. A feeling of well being results in a strong symbolic and emotional attachment. This community value of water is particularly strong among the rural Hispanics of Milagro. The insecurity of their cultures in modern circumstances make the presence of water crucial to the community. In People of the Valley , written by Frank Waters, the rural community is dealing with progress and the development of a dam.
Water is an important natural resource in New Mexico.
Water rights have been influenced by Spanish and Mexican rule and post-1848 territorial laws. In rural communities and small scale farms water and the rights to it are crucial in maintaining the lifestyle and culture. References Nichols, John. The Milagro Beanfield War . Ballantine Books, 1974.