With President Donald Trump's actions to impose tariffs on Mexican exports to the United States, it is uncertain whether he will reduce water shipments through the Colorado River or respect the water conservation agreement between the two countries. However, it is a reality that Baja California faces a supply challenge, reflected Dr. Marisela Martínez Quiroz, Director of the School of Engineering at CETYS Tijuana. Since this year, with the fires in California, the spotlight has been shone on the supply of this vital liquid for the binational region by 2025. Currently, the area is facing a drought that, combined with the lack of conservation strategies for this resource, predicts a more complicated future for water consumption for both Mexican and US residents.
The CETYS expert mentioned that the Colorado River, the main source of water supply, has been experiencing low water levels in recent years, exacerbated by climate change and the current drought. This has caused a decrease in the river's flow, generating tensions over water distribution between the various neighboring states. Currently, there are additional agreements to try to manage the water crisis, such as the "conservation agreements" between the United States and Mexico, and the "Colorado River Basin Water Agreement," signed in 2027, which includes commitments to conserve water, improve infrastructure, and strengthen cooperation between the two countries. However, recent reports have emerged that question whether or not water shipments to the Mexican side will be reduced.
"Mexico has occasionally agreed to cede part of its water quota to the United States in years of shortage, in exchange for financial compensation or the promise of receiving more water in the future. By 2025, Mexico is expected to receive compensation from the United States if water deliveries need to be adjusted due to drought," the academic noted.