AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after a phone call this morning with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss Mexico’s ongoing violation of the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande:

“The Rio Grande River is an integral water source for South Texas farmers and ranchers, and it’s imperative that Mexico follow through on its commitments to ensure the river’s water supply remains strong as required under this treaty,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I strongly encouraged Sec. Blinken to hold Mexico accountable, and I urge Mexico to promptly release the water it owes the Amistad and Falcon Reservoirs.”

Background:

Under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande, Mexico is obligated to deliver an average of 350,000-acre feet of water annually over a five-year cycle as its contribution to the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, Mexico has consistently delayed fulfilling its water obligation until the end of the five-year cycle, which hinders South Texas farmers’ ability to plan for and grow crops. Since October 2020, Mexico is behind approximately 700,000 acre-feet on water deliveries.

Today’s phone call builds on a letter Sen. Cornyn sent to Sec. Blinken in May urging the State Department to engage on Mexico’s treaty violation.