On April 28, 2025, Mexico and the United States reached a significant agreement concerning the distribution of water from the Rio Bravo, a resolution that comes after weeks of diplomatic pressure and negotiations. The deal, heralded as a major victory for U.S. agriculture, involves immediate water transfers from Mexico and additional allocations during the upcoming rainy season. This agreement aims to address the water shortages that have arisen due to prolonged drought conditions affecting the northern regions of Mexico.
The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, quickly lauded the decision, calling it an "important win for U.S. agriculture". She emphasized that the agreement would ensure that Texas farmers and ranchers receive the necessary water to sustain their operations, stating, "After weeks of negotiations with Mexican cabinet officials, we achieved an agreement to provide Texas producers the water they need to thrive." This sentiment reflects the ongoing concerns about water supply in the context of agricultural productivity, especially in Texas.
The formalization of this agreement is set to occur with the approval of the International Boundary and Water Commission (CILA), which oversees the compliance of water treaties between the two nations. The agreement aligns with the International Water Treaty of 1944, which stipulates that the U.S. should send 1,850 million cubic meters of water from the Colorado River each year while Mexico is obligated to deliver 2,185 million cubic meters from the Rio Bravo over five-year cycles.
The current cycle began on October 25, 2020, and is scheduled to conclude on October 24, 2025. However, Mexico has struggled to meet its obligations due to severe drought conditions that have led to significantly low levels in the international reservoirs of the Rio Bravo basin. As of late April 2025, the Falcon International Dam in Tamaulipas was reported to be at only 8% of its capacity, while the La Amistad Dam in Coahuila had about 14% of its storage capacity filled.
In a joint press release, both countries highlighted that all actions taken under this agreement prioritize ensuring water supply for human consumption for Mexican populations that depend on the Rio Bravo. The Mexican government has committed to transferring water from its international reservoirs and increasing the flow from six tributaries of the Rio Bravo until the end of the current five-year cycle.
President Claudia Sheinbaum remarked that while the agreement is crucial for fulfilling international commitments, the Mexican government would prioritize domestic water supply needs, particularly given the ongoing drought that has severely impacted water availability in the country. She noted, "We will ensure that our water supply needs are met while also complying with our obligations under the treaty. It's a balancing act, but we are committed to both our people and our agreements."
The six tributaries expected to contribute to the water deliveries include the Rio Conchos, which is vital for agriculture in the states of Chihuahua and Durango. Other tributaries involved are Arroyo Las Vacas, Rio San Diego, Rio San Rodrigo, Rio Escondido, and Rio Salado, all of which are crucial for sustaining water levels in the Rio Bravo.
The historical context of this agreement cannot be overlooked. Under the previous administration of Donald Trump, tensions escalated over perceived non-compliance by Mexico regarding the treaty. Trump’s administration threatened tariffs and sanctions, which heightened diplomatic strains between the two nations. The current agreement is seen as a step towards mending relations and ensuring mutual benefits from the treaty.
Experts have pointed out that fluctuations in water delivery are normal in the five-year cycles of the treaty, with compensations often made in subsequent periods. However, the current situation has raised concerns about the sustainability of water resources in both countries, especially as climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water availability.
In summary, while the agreement reached on April 28 is a significant milestone in U.S.-Mexico relations concerning water management, it also underscores the ongoing challenges presented by climatic changes and the need for cooperative management of shared resources. As both nations move forward, the emphasis will remain on balancing domestic needs with international obligations, ensuring that both countries can benefit from their shared water resources.
