The first Deep South Texas State of Water Symposium held in Pharr, Texas, brought together about 250 lawmakers, leaders, and agricultural representatives from various regions, including the Rio Grande Valley, Laredo, Austin, and even as far as Presidio in the Big Bend. The symposium aimed to address the pressing issues of the dwindling Rio Grande, lack of water payments from Mexico, and the need for local border communities to collaborate on finding future water solutions.
State Rep. Terry Canales emphasized the importance of discussing water scarcity, stating that there is a clear need for cohesive action from farmers, ranchers, and municipalities. Sarah Schlesinger, CEO of the Texas Water Foundation, highlighted the projected 70% population growth in the state over the next 50 years, with much of that growth expected in South Texas. However, water supplies are not keeping pace with this growth, posing a significant challenge for the region.
One major concern raised at the symposium was Mexico’s failure to pay the water it owes the United States under an international treaty. Maria-Elena Giner, U.S. Commissioner for the International Boundary and Water Commission, expressed doubts about Mexico’s ability to make the required payment by the end of the current five-year cycle in October 2025. This non-payment has further exacerbated the water shortage issues in the region.
The Rio Grande Valley, which is heavily dependent on the Rio Grande for its water supply, is facing a critical need for long-term solutions to meet its water demands. Giner highlighted that the United States has also contributed less to the Rio Grande in recent years due to increased growth and demand, further straining the water resources in the region.
The impact of water scarcity on agriculture was a significant focus of the symposium, with concerns raised about the closure of the state’s lone sugar cane mill due to insufficient water for farming. Citrus crops in the Rio Grande Valley are now under threat, with projections of significant losses if water supplies do not improve. Jed Murray of the Texas International Produce Association highlighted the industry’s potential $200 million loss this season due to water shortages.
State Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa emphasized the need for local leaders to unite and seek solutions to the water crisis. He suggested tapping into state funds, including the Rainy Day Fund, to address the pressing water issues in the region. Hinojosa stressed the importance of coming together as a unified voice to access state and federal funding for water infrastructure projects.
The symposium also addressed the fragmented nature of water management in the Rio Grande Valley, with multiple irrigation districts and municipalities vying for separate funding. The need for a unified regional response to water challenges was highlighted, drawing parallels to the success of the RGV Metropolitan Planning Organization in securing additional road funds for the region.
Long-term solutions such as developing water treatment plants, desalination plants, and stricter conservation methods were discussed as potential strategies to address water scarcity in the region. The importance of continuing the conversation on water management even when reservoirs are full was emphasized, highlighting the need for proactive planning to ensure water security in the future.
Overall, the symposium shed light on the urgent need for collaborative action to address water scarcity in South Texas and underscored the importance of long-term planning and investment in water infrastructure to secure the region’s water future.