Both state and federal lawmakers in Texas are voicing their concern over whether Mexico is honoring its obligations under the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande treaty, arguing economic damage is being done along the border due to the United States not receiving its share.

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX-15) issued a joint letter with Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19) to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, requesting a meeting to discuss the water crisis.

“In 1944, the United States signed a treaty with the Mexican government to receive an average of 350,000-acre feet of water from Mexico every year, over a five-year cycle. For over 30 years there have been consistent delays in meeting these obligations, which have severely affected U.S. agriculture. At this time, Mexico owes the United States over 750,000-acre feet of water, the most they have ever owed at this point in the cycle,” the letter states.

“For South Texas, which is already experiencing dire drought conditions, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to mitigate the impact on the agricultural industry and our  communities.”

The letter also notes that in 2023 Texas exported $7.3 billion in agriculture products, but that because of the economic impact already caused by the water shortage, that number is unlikely to increase.

“The loss of water to the Rio Grande Valley could cost the region close to $1 billion in annual economic activity, jeopardizing jobs and cropland. This means higher prices for all Americans,” the lawmakers wrote.

De La Cruz, whose district is in a large region of South Texas, issued a statement regarding the letter and emphasized the economic impact of not enforcing the water treaty.

“This water crisis is crippling our agricultural producers and jeopardizing our local economy,” she said, adding, “With the loss of the last operating sugar mill in Texas resulting in 500 job cuts and potentially devastating the citrus industry, it is imperative that we address this issue without delay.”

Earlier this month, 11 state lawmakers led by Rep. Terry Canales (D-Edinberg) sent a letter to the Biden administration, highlighting the region’s economic growth and the harms caused by the failure of Mexico to honor its obligations.

“The scarcity of water in our region has far-reaching implications for agriculture, ecosystems, and communities on both sides of the border,” the state lawmakers wrote.

De La Cruz says she is convinced the U.S. State Department and other federal agencies can coordinate a strategy to force Mexico to comply with its treaty obligations, adding its imperative for the industries that rely on it.

“Our community cannot afford any more setbacks,” De La Cruz said. “We must secure the water that rightfully belongs to our farmers and ensure the sustainability of our agricultural sector.”