BROWNSVILLE, Texas (RFD NEWS) — After years of delays, Mexico has begun making water payments to the United States under the terms of a 1944 water treaty. However, farmers say the amount of water delivered still falls short of requirements.
In an exclusive interview, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) told RFD NEWS correspondent Frank McCaffrey what it took to pressure the Mexican government to resume payments under the agreement.
McCaffrey takes us to Texas to speak with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle about the issue, where Sen. Cruz and Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX) emphasized that water access and treaty compliance remain major concerns for producers.
Both lawmakers believe water will be a significant topic during this year’s review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which President Donald Trump recently called “irrelevant.”
That review process is scheduled to begin this summer.
David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.
April 16, 2026 11:32 AM
·
ASFMRA’s Shawn Wood joins us to discuss farmland market trends in Arizona and the key factors shaping land values and water-driven decision-making.
April 15, 2026 03:45 PM
·
Lawmakers say payments will support schools, infrastructure and public safety in rural communities.
April 15, 2026 03:10 PM
·
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller joins us with an update on the most recent case of New World screwworm 90 miles from the U.S. Southern border.
April 15, 2026 11:40 AM
·
With fewer young people entering agriculture and farmers nearing retirement, industry leaders warn of challenges ahead while working to keep farming profitable and sustainable.
April 15, 2026 08:00 AM
·
The proposal would require farmers’ consent before companies can sell agricultural data
April 14, 2026 01:37 PM
·