Financial assistance announced for Rio Grande Valley farmers impacted by water crisis

The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening following today’s announcement of $280 million in economic relief for Rio Grande Valley farmers suffering from Mexico’s ongoing failure to meet its water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty.

“Mexico’s failure to deliver the water it owes our nation under the 1944 Water Treaty has created an unprecedented economic crisis for Rio Grande Valley farmers. Texas Farm Bureau is thankful for the efforts of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Texas congressional leaders who recognized this tremendous hardship and today announced $280 million in critical economic relief to help impacted farmers in the area.

"We agree with Secretary Rollins that this assistance is only a short-term fix. It is imperative Mexico deliver the water it owes the United States. Texas Farm Bureau is committed to finding solutions to force Mexico to abide by the 1944 Water Treaty and ensure annual delivery of water to the U.S. This is a national legislative priority of our organization. 

“Texas Farm Bureau appreciates the efforts of U.S. Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, as well as the efforts U.S. Reps. Monica De La Cruz, Henry Cuellar and Vicente Gonzalez, in securing this important funding. The assistance will be provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in a block grant agreement with the Texas Department of Agriculture, and we appreciate Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller for his work to deliver this assistance in a timely manner.”