Mexico’s Irrigation Upgrade Reaches 40%, Says CONAGUA

The National Water Commission (CONAGUA) reported an average 40% progress in its national program to modernize Mexico’s agricultural irrigation systems, aimed at increasing food production while reducing water use. The update was presented by CONAGUA Director General Efraín Morales López during a Nov. 5 conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Morales detailed that more than 200,000 hectares across 18 strategic Irrigation Districts are being modernized—a transformation expected to recover over 2.8 billion cubic meters of water. The program aims to benefit 225,000 agricultural users, enhance aquifer recharge, and contribute to a better hydrological balance in regions experiencing high water stress.

Addressing concerns about the Acueducto Solís project in Guanajuato, designed to supply water to five municipalities, Morales said allegations of water diversion from agricultural producers are “false.” He explained that the supply will come from water savings generated through the modernization of Irrigation District 011, with savings projected to reach up to 120 million cubic meters, in line with agreements established with local producers.

He also clarified that the project does not involve extracting water from the Solís Dam, countering what he described as misinformation campaigns. Instead, improved irrigation infrastructure is expected to support aquifer recharge across the basin.

As part of broader oversight efforts, Morales reported that CONAGUA has intensified its review and verification of water concessions. All 536,000 active concession titles are undergoing detailed examination—covering their location, use, volume, validity, and ownership. During the review, the agency identified irregularities such as nonexistent locations and agricultural concessions used for unauthorized water sales, particularly in Puebla.

To address these issues, CONAGUA has conducted over 4,000 on-site inspections to detect illegal extraction and permit violations. The agency also received more than 1,500 citizen complaints through its reporting channels. Of these, 470 cases involved unauthorized use or diversion of water, 266 related to illegal wells, 118 to unpermitted wastewater discharges, 93 to unauthorized occupation of federal land, 82 to unapproved alterations of watercourses, and 57 to illegal extraction of stone materials.

Morales emphasized that strengthening water governance and ensuring compliance across sectors are essential for long-term sustainability, especially in areas facing extreme water scarcity. These actions follow President Sheinbaum’s directive to combat illegal extraction and dismantle informal “water markets.”

He reiterated the government’s commitment to working with agricultural producers to help Mexico increase food output while using less water, a transition aimed at boosting rural productivity and expanding water availability for communities—particularly those experiencing the highest levels of hydrological stress.