U.S. Supreme Court Approves Settlement to End Rio Grande Water Dispute with Mexico

The agreement establishes a new system to monitor water deliveries to Texas and sets limits on how far Mexico can fall behind on its treaty obligations.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — The U.S. Supreme Court has approved a settlement ending a 13-year legal battle over Rio Grande water sharing between Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado.

The agreement establishes a new system to monitor water deliveries to Texas and sets limits on how far Mexico can fall behind on its treaty obligations. The dispute began in 2013 when Texas argued that water use in New Mexico was reducing downstream flows.

Officials say the settlement provides long-term certainty and shifts the focus from litigation to managing water resources across the drought-prone region.

Related Stories
The Livestock Conservancy says protecting rare breeds helps preserve genetic diversity and long-term agricultural resilience.
The Perrier family says maintaining herd quality has helped keep the operation strong.
The lockout has not yet signaled a major disruption in the cattle market, but processing reliability remains important in a tight beef supply chain.
The award-winning pitmaster discusses choosing the right beef cuts, managing grill heat and building confidence behind the grill.