U.S., Mexico Reach Long-Sought After Water Shortage Agreement Under 1944 Treaty

The United States and Mexico have reached a long-sought understanding under the 1944 Water Treaty that promises immediate relief for Texas farmers and ranchers while setting a path to repay years of overdue water deliveries from the Rio Grande.

Under the agreement announced today, Mexico will begin releasing 202,000 acre-feet of water to the United States starting the week of December 15, 2025, addressing obligations from the current five-year treaty cycle and helping repay deficits carried over from the previous cycle. Officials from both nations said negotiations are ongoing, with a comprehensive repayment plan expected to be finalized by January 31, 2026.