The Lower Rio Grande—our region’s only source of drinking water—has been named one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers® in 2025. Flowing from Del Rio to the Gulf, the river sustains over two million people, vibrant ecosystems, agricultural economies, and borderland communities. But today, it is facing serious threats.
Extreme heat, prolonged drought, and outdated infrastructure have reduced the river’s flow by over 30%. Less than 20% of its water now reaches the Gulf. At the same time, communities are being cut off from access to the river due to harmful border policies, deepening a disconnect from this sacred and vital resource.
We urgently need federal investment in water conservation, dam repairs, and restoration efforts—including full implementation of Minute 331, a new U.S.–Mexico agreement to strengthen binational cooperation.
This is a turning point. We can either lose this river—or restore it as a symbol of resilience, unity, and life.
