Brownsville herald. [volume] (Brownsville, Tex.) 1910-current, 1928-03-18

For centuries the division Of irrigation waters has
been one Of the most vexing problems with which ma
tions have been confronted. and this problem, in both
Its domestic and international phases, has been the
basis for much contention, i'll feeling and injustice
The history of nations would indicate that mankind is
prone to evince unusual selfishness in the ALLEGATION
of irrigation waters, and history also proves that when
ever a nation. group or individual has sought undue
and unfair advantages in this respect they have never
succeeded in making such prosperity as may accrue
therefrom permanent.
In connection with the proposed treaty with Mexico
relative to the distribution Of the waters Of border
streams, both the United States and Mexico have been
exceptionally fortunate in the selection Of commits
sioners to represent the respective governments. Eacn
section Of the joint commission is composed Of engi-
neers who have made a life study Of irrigation and its
problems. They are familiar with border conditions;
they realize the value of water in the development Of
the potential resources of the border country. Gus
tavo P. SerranO, chairman Of the Mexican section. Is
also head Of the Mexican boundary commission. and
is intimately acquainted with border conditions. as Is
also Amanda Santacruz, engineer Of the commission.
Javier Sanchez Mejorada, head of the Mexican irri-
cation commission, is in direct charge or the huge
government projects Mexico now has under way in all
parts OF the republic. Dr. Elwood Mead. head Of the
American section ard also chief Of the u. S. reclama-
tion department, is probably more familiar with bor-
der irrigation conditions and problems than any man
in the United States, and he has able co-workers in the
persons Of General Lansing Beach and W.. E. Anderson.
This commission will establish the basis upon which
a treaty between the two nations will be negotiated.
and there can be no question that the basis recon-
mended will be absolutely fair to both nations. How
ever, their recommendations must be submitted to their
respective governments, and it is at this point the po-
ltical element may enter. Fortunately, the relations
between the United States and Mexico are such that the
political phases do not constitute serious cause for
apprehension, and both governments will doubtless rec
ognize the necessity for a treaty which will IN every
respect be a firm foundation upon which the fertile
lands on both sides Of the border streams may be de-
veloped to the maximum.
A treaty between nations is in all essentials SINH
lar to a long term contract between individuals. Any
treaty dealing with a matter Of this character must he
fair 10 all parties in all essentials if it is to function
as q foundation for permanent development. Any in
justice contained therein. any undue advantage either
party may attain BY diplomatic or political "jockeying.
would only serve to decrease its value TO both parties.
thereto are to profit.
The Lower Rio Grande Valley has inaugurated the
development Of what should eventually become the az
only be attained BY first erecting a firm foundation
would Be unfair to that country, which would not in
border streams and recognizing and establishing the
rights Of the two nations, would prove a serious de-
terrent to Valley development for the reason that an
unfair contract must of necessity be only temporary.
The Valley does not want q make-shift ~treasy-it wants
a treaty established upon a basis OF fairness and jus
tice which will assure its permanence.