IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Water proposal could devastate Texas rice industry

One of the worst droughts in Texas history has officials pondering whether to cut off water from a river that many farmers depend on for rice and other crops.
/ Source: The Associated Press

One of the worst droughts in Texas history has officials pondering whether to cut off water from a river that many farmers depend on for rice and other crops.

The Lower Colorado River Authority could vote Wednesday to cut off water to about 250 farmers in the state's three biggest rice-producing counties. Officials say it's an emergency measure to protect the water that's left for drinking and other utilities.

While most of Texas and the Southwest are under moderate to extreme drought conditions, agricultural water rationing and curtailment proposals are becoming more widespread, even affecting parts of the Deep South.

Since last October, Texas has seen the driest 11-month period since it began keeping rainfall records in 1895. This Texas summer has been the hottest in the nation's history.