Water agreement important step forward for Rio Grande Valley agriculture
The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement Dec. 12 that the United States and Mexico reached an understanding to meet the current water obligations of American farmers and ranchers and for Mexico to repay the water deficit in Texas as part of the 1944 Water Treaty.
“Texas Farm Bureau appreciates the efforts that led to the Dec. 12 announcement and thanks President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for their leadership in addressing this critical issue. We also thank President Trump’s quick action following our state director Brian Adamek’s meeting with him in the Oval Office. That conversation underscored the urgency of this matter, and the announcement reflects the administration’s determination to stand with American farmers and ranchers.
“This is an important step forward for agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley and across South Texas. However, let me be clear. This fight is far from over. History has shown that promises alone do not irrigate crops or sustain rural economies. Texas farmers have endured years of uncertainty, devastating losses and economic hardship because of repeated shortfalls in treaty compliance. Mexico’s failure to deliver water has already cost the sugar industry in the Rio Grande Valley, and citrus and other crops are on the chopping block unless real action and lasting solutions happen swiftly.
“We must remain aggressive and vigilant to ensure Mexico fully honors its commitments, not just today but throughout the entire water cycle. The United States must hold Mexico accountable and be prepared to use every tool available to end this ongoing chaos and restore fairness under the treaty.
“Texas Farm Bureau stands ready to work with federal and state leaders to guarantee water deliveries are timely, predictable and sufficient. Our farmers and ranchers deserve nothing less than full compliance and lasting solutions.”