### A Stark Warning of Water Cuts: A Water Watch Editorial
BY MARTINA DOBESH
Despite experiencing two relatively wet winters, it’s foolhardy to become complacent about water usage in Baja California. The misconception that water issues are a thing of the past has lulled some into a false sense of security. However, buried in the May 6th issue of a local publication under the title “Baja California Faces Severe Colorado River Water Cuts,” was a stark reminder that concerns about water scarcity have never truly been resolved—they’ve just been temporarily overshadowed.
The Permanent Forum on Binational Waters has issued a stern warning: “The upcoming cut in Colorado River water allocation to Mexico in 2024 will exceed the annual water usage of all Baja California cities reliant on this source.” This translates to about a 33% reduction. The warning further elaborated that the situation would worsen in 2025, coinciding with the shift to a new administration following the US elections in November. The 1944 Treaty that safeguards Colorado River water for Baja will expire in 2026. Yet, discussions around progress and economic development continue unabated across the state.
In the January 15th issue, a front-page article highlighted that the new governor, Marina Pila, attended the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. There, she emphasized that her main objective was to promote Baja California as an “ideal investment destination,” covering topics like economic development, security, and sustainability. Last year, she unveiled a mega-project: an “artificial town,” styled like a medieval Italian village in the wine country, meant to serve both as a residential community and a tourist attraction.
The June 3rd edition boasted headlines about a “premier entertainment hub” catering to 10,000 people for top-tier events, including 300 bathrooms. The eco-friendly claims for such a development seem dubious. Meanwhile, the June 14th edition was filled with optimistic articles about a tourist paradise and job creation. For example, a project aimed at “transforming Ensenada’s Port Area” included plans for a ferry service from Ensenada to San Diego, expected within five months. These initiatives are designed to “boost” Baja’s image, such as the “Punta Piedra’s New Misión Project,” featuring 70 residences with “advanced technology and water-saving systems.” But the pressing question remains: who will guarantee abundant water for these ambitious investors?
Over the past two decades of researching this issue, I’ve noticed that people often default to the idea that desalination plants will solve our problems. Whenever alarming water statistics are shared, the casual response tends to be, “Well, build a desal plant.” The July 1st front-page article by Archer Ingram, titled “Rosarito’s New Desalination Plant Gets Green Light,” provided an in-depth look at the politics and costs involved in building such a plant, projected to cost half a billion dollars. However, it didn’t address operational costs or the increased prices users would face. Moreover, no timeline was given for its completion. Given Rosarito’s urgent water needs, it’s a critical question—you can’t build a desalination plant without sufficient water.
Oliver Quintero, a local publisher, mentioned that land had already been purchased years ago for a previous failed project at Ejido Mazatlán, next to the CFE thermoelectrical plant. Water cuts are here, and learning to conserve water is essential for future planning.
For a deeper dive into the historical and current water issues, visit our webpage. Don’t forget to check out the YouTube channel Mojo Adventures for the latest updates on the Colorado River as we approach 2026.
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### Additional Articles on Water Issues
**California’s Drought Emergencies Intensify**
California is facing severe drought conditions that have led to emergency measures statewide. From mandatory water cuts to new conservation efforts, the state’s water managers are scrambling to address the crisis. Experts warn that the situation could worsen if immediate action isn’t taken to implement long-term solutions.
**Arizona Farmers Grapple with Water Shortages**
In Arizona, farmers are bearing the brunt of water cuts from the Colorado River. Many are switching to less water-intensive crops or fallowing fields altogether. The economic impact is severe, and there is growing concern about the future of agriculture in the region.
**Las Vegas Bets on Water Recycling**
Las Vegas is pioneering an ambitious water recycling program to mitigate the effects of ongoing drought. By treating and reusing wastewater, the city aims to reduce its reliance on dwindling Colorado River supplies. The initiative has become a model for other cities facing similar challenges.
For more detailed reports on these articles, please visit our site and stay informed about crucial water conservation efforts happening across the western United States.