Mexico's Water Debt Threatens South Texas Citrus Industry
The Mexican government has fallen short in its water delivery obligations under the 1944 International Treaty. As of October 25, only half of the 1.75 million acre-feet owed has been paid, leaving around 2.5 billion cubic meters outstanding. U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz has urged the Trump administration to pressure Mexico to meet its commitments, warning of potential threats to the South Texas citrus industry.
The 1944 Water Treaty requires Mexico to deliver 1.5 million acre-feet of water annually to the United States via the Colorado River. However, in the past seven cycles, Mexico has struggled to meet its payments. The latest data shows Mexico owes the United States 884,864 acre-feet of water. De La Cruz fears Mexico may declare drought as a reason for its lack of water payments, potentially extending the time for deliveries and jeopardizing the local citrus industry. She has asked U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to request that Mexico send 350,000 acre-feet of water by April. Furthermore, De La Cruz has suggested including the 1944 treaty in the upcoming renegotiation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreements trade talks next year.
A blow to the South Texas citrus industry could have severe consequences for several border towns. The citrus industry is a significant contributor to the local economy, and any disruption could cripple these communities.
The Mexican government's failure to meet its water delivery obligations under the 1944 International Treaty is a cause for concern. The outstanding water, amounting to about 2.5 billion cubic meters, is threatening the South Texas citrus industry and potentially the local economies of several border towns. U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz has taken steps to address this issue, urging the Trump administration to pressure Mexico and suggesting the inclusion of the treaty in upcoming trade talks. The situation requires prompt attention to prevent any further damage to the affected regions.
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