March 16, 2005

To Governors of U.S. - Mexico Border States

 Dear Governor:

As the co-chairs of the Border Governors’ Conference (BGC) Agriculture Work Table (AWT), we are writing to express the AWT’s concerns regarding certain activities conducted by other BGC worktables and participants that affect the development of the agricultural sector.   

It has come to our attention that several BGC worktables are pursuing various subject matters related to water, environment, energy, health and transportation that have a direct impact on agricultural production.  We are concerned because these worktables have given no apparent consideration to the agriculture sector nor have they sought input from the AWT.   As a result the development, competitiveness and profits for agricultural economic activity in the border states could be negatively impacted.

A relevant example is the decision to invest resources for the efficient use of water by developing distribution and irrigation infrastructure that allows for the proper administration of water and guarantees the volumes needed for the agriculture sector and other water users.  Agriculture is the main consumer of this important resource and, should have been a partner in reaching this decision.  Furthermore, the agricultural industry does not have the funding to invest the amounts necessary to achieve these goals, and we believe the investment should come from programs implemented by  both countries’ governments, such as the North American Development Bank.

Lastly, we are concerned that agriculture is rarely addressed in presentations made by individual governors.  Agriculture does not appear to be a priority.  It is very important to realize the importance of this sector – the agricultural industry not only provides food to the general population, but is also an important component of international trade and the main economic activity for many rural communities and states.  It is vital that governors support and keep it competitive in the global economy.

In closing, we ask that you ensure agriculture remains a priority issue for you.  We also ask that you consider suggesting to the BGC worktable representatives that they consider the implications of their decisions on the agriculture sector and urge them to seek appropriate input from the AWT on such decisions.  

Thank you for your attention to this matter. 

Sincerely,

Susan Combs                                        Juan Pablo Hernandez Diaz
Commissioner                                       Secretary
Texas                                                    Baja California