Agriculture Secretary Rollins says US progressing on Mexico water treaty dispute
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is ramping up the pressure on Mexico over a looming water crisis that poses a threat to South Texas farmers. In a recent announcement, Rollins indicated that high-level discussions with Mexican officials could finally lead to a breakthrough in the situation.
In a post on X, Rollins expressed her satisfaction with the progress made during a call with Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau and her Mexican counterpart. She emphasized the urgency of the crisis, highlighting Mexico’s failure to fulfill its treaty obligations to deliver water to American farmers.
Rollins did not mince words, stating that American agriculture has been seeking relief for years without success. However, she noted that the current administration, under a President willing to take decisive action, is determined to address the issue.
During an interview on AgriTalk radio, Rollins provided insight into the swift developments taking place. Following President Donald Trump’s social media post on Mexico’s actions, Mexican officials promptly reached out to schedule discussions with Rollins.
The frustration stems from Mexico’s failure to meet its water delivery requirements under the 1944 Water Treaty, which mandates the transfer of 1.75 million acre-feet of water to the U.S. every five years. Mexico currently lags behind by over 1.3 million acre-feet, significantly impacting South Texas farmers, particularly amidst prevailing drought conditions.
Rollins revealed that the administration is in constant communication with governors and agriculture leaders, prioritizing support for farmers, especially those cultivating wheat and sorghum. She expressed confidence that the proposed changes would usher in unprecedented prosperity for these farmers.
President Trump also weighed in on the water crisis, warning Mexico of potential consequences, including tariffs and sanctions, if it fails to fulfill its treaty obligations. Senator Ted Cruz echoed the administration’s stance, labeling the situation a man-made crisis and affirming his commitment to pressuring Mexico to comply.
The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs recently denied Mexico’s request for a special water delivery to Tijuana, citing Mexico’s persistent shortfall in meeting its treaty obligations. This denial marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the U.S. and Mexico over water rights.
While tensions have previously arisen over the 1944 treaty, officials underscore the heightened severity of the current situation due to the prevailing drought, one of the most severe in nearly three decades. Rollins commended her Mexican counterpart for his prompt attention to the matter but emphasized the urgency of finding a resolution swiftly.
In a subsequent appearance on RFD-TV, Rollins reiterated the need for urgent action and expressed hope for a speedy resolution through ongoing discussions with relevant counterparts. The USDA’s involvement in the negotiations underscores the gravity of the situation and the administration’s commitment to addressing the water crisis.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for both countries to work towards a mutually beneficial solution that safeguards the interests of American farmers while upholding treaty obligations. The outcome of these discussions will have far-reaching implications for the agricultural sector in South Texas and beyond.
