Mexico creating ‘hydro refugees’ by not protecting water resources, researcher says

SAN DIEGO (Border Report) — A college professor and water researcher is warning the Mexican government to do more to protect, recycle and distribute water across the country as a way to prevent further migration out of Mexico and into the United States.

Fernando González Villarreal of Mexico’s Autonomous National University’s Hydraulic Security department, says Mexico is facing severe drought by not protecting its water.

He believes the lack of water in many areas across Mexico will force people to leave their lands and migrate to places like the United States.

González Villarreal issued a report recently, stating Mexico needs better water recycling, reclamation and distribution infrastructure.

“I would add irrigation planning is critical along with reutilization of water treatment that can be used in in other areas,” he said. “The most complicated and involved issue is the transferring of water for agricultural purposes, right now it has very low economic and social value, there needs to be a greater benefit.”

He warns unless more is done to protect water, Mexico will begin creating a generation of “hydro refugees.”

“The lack of this resource will start creating movement, a migration because water is a priority for subsistence for all people.”

According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Mexico is experiencing long-term drought, in large part due to the lack of rain since the 2022-23 winter.

Heat waves have also contributed.

NOAA estimates that 76 percent of Mexico remains under drought conditions.

“This type of phenomenon is presenting itself with more frequency in many regions of the country, we need solutions.”