The price Texas pays for Mexico’s water debt

The Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas is not only a cultural gem but also a significant contributor to our state’s economy. Since the region is largely dependent upon the Rio Grande for its water supply, it is critical that those states and nations with which we share common borders comply with state, federal, and international agreements regarding the river. Since the early 1990s, Mexico has consistently failed to meet its obligations to the treaty signed in 1944 that allocates waters in the lower reach of the Rio Grande. Mexico’s repeated failure to comply with the treaty has caused severe economic hardship to Texas communities and farmers. Despite numerous efforts, Mexico continues to resist entering into a productive discussion and commitment to honor the treaty. A meaningful resolution to this issue will require active participation from the U.S. Department of State, the White House, and Texas officials. Citation: Rubinstein C. 2015. The price Texas pays for Mexico's water debt. Texas Water Journal. 6(1):1-10. Available from: https://doi.org/10.21423/twj.v6i1.7015.