Data shows Rio Grande water shortage is not just due to Mexico’s lack of water deliveries

Research from a federal agency shows that the two international reservoirs that supply water to the Rio Grande were receiving less water than they did during the 1980s even without accounting for water deliveries owed by Mexico. Water levels at the Amistad and Falcon international reservoirs are currently at 19% and 12% of capacity, respectively. Data from the International Boundary and Water Commission shows some of the decrease is from lower inflows from the U.S. side of the river. IBWC Commissioner Maria Elena Giner said the decline highlights the need for the region to diversify its water supply, noting that 90% comes from the Rio Grande.