Senate Memorial 20 aims to raise awareness about the deteriorating condition of dams in New Mexico and urges state leaders to collaborate on establishing a comprehensive statewide dam rehabilitation program. The memorial highlights the critical role that dams play in the state's infrastructure, providing essential benefits such as flood control, water storage, and irrigation. It notes that many of New Mexico's dams are over fifty years old and have suffered from insufficient maintenance, leading to increased risks of catastrophic failures, especially in light of recent extreme weather events.

The resolution calls for state leaders to work together to identify the needs for dam rehabilitation, prioritize projects, seek funding, and assist dam owners with planning and grant management. It emphasizes the importance of timely intervention to protect vital resources and ensure public safety as the risks associated with aging dams and severe storms continue to rise. The memorial concludes by directing that copies be sent to various state officials and stakeholders involved in dam management and safety.