Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued a statement addressing the recent agreement signed by the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) between the U.S. Department of State and Mexico, focused on resolving ongoing water delivery disputes under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande. This treaty mandates Mexico’s commitment to deliver water resources vital to South Texas communities, especially farmers and ranchers who rely on a predictable water supply for agricultural planning and sustainability.
“I appreciate Commissioner Giner’s willingness to foster open dialogue between Mexico and the State Department to negotiate new tools that will further pressure Mexico to meet their obligations under this treaty, but there is still much more work to be done,” Senator Cornyn stated. “Our border communities in the Rio Grande Valley are being crushed by Mexico’s repeatedly delayed water deliveries, and I urge the State Department to prioritize ensuring South Texas farmers and ranchers have the water they are rightfully owed on a more predictable basis.”
The Importance of Treaty Compliance
Under the 1944 Water Treaty, Mexico is required to deliver an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water per year over a five-year cycle to supplement the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, consistent delays in Mexico’s compliance have exacerbated water shortages, hindering the ability of South Texas agricultural stakeholders to plan, plant, and cultivate their crops. As of November 2024, Mexico is behind by approximately 980,000 acre-feet in fulfilling its obligation. This deficit places a substantial burden on Texas farmers and ranchers, limiting their ability to thrive and threatening livelihoods across the region.
New Agreement: Steps Toward Accountability
The new agreement brokered through the IBWC seeks to provide Mexico with additional mechanisms to meet its treaty obligations. These include enabling ownership transfers at the Amistad and Falcon Reservoirs, potential credit for early water deliveries, and the possibility of using water from the San Juan and Alamo Rivers to cover delivery shortfalls if mutually agreed upon. While these measures could help alleviate water supply issues, many argue they fail to guarantee consistent and timely compliance.
Continued Advocacy for South Texas
Sen. Cornyn and other leaders remain committed to holding Mexico accountable to its treaty obligations. Earlier this year, he led efforts to encourage the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State and Foreign Operations to condition certain funds to Mexico upon fulfilling their water obligations. Sen. Cornyn has also co-sponsored legislation to bolster U.S. diplomatic efforts, supported resolutions emphasizing diplomatic engagement, and has personally advocated for action with Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The acute water shortage impacting the Rio Grande Valley’s farmers is a pressing issue, demonstrated by the closure of a sugarcane mill due to inadequate water availability. With the stakes so high, Sen. Cornyn’s efforts underline the necessity of strict treaty enforcement to protect the livelihoods of countless Texans dependent on a stable water supply.
A Path Forward
The new agreement between the IBWC and Mexico represents a step toward addressing these challenges, but it underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability. Ensuring that Mexico fulfills its obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty is not merely a diplomatic priority; it is a lifeline for border communities and South Texas agriculture. The predictable flow of water resources remains critical for the region’s economic stability and agricultural productivity. Moving forward, all stakeholders must work to ensure this vital resource continues to flow as agreed, providing a sustainable future for the communities and families of South Texas.
