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An overgrown levee near the Rio Grande. Two small paths flank the levee on both sided and extend into the distance.

Looking across the Rio Grande into Mexico underneath the Gateway Bridge off International Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas.

Originally, treaties between Mexico and the United States provided for mutual navigation rights along the Rio Grande. Now, the river water is used primarily for domestic purposes and irrigation. As a result of the United States-Mexico water treaty of…

River ramp leading to the Rio Grande near Brownsville. Vegetation lines both sides of the ramp, while trees are visible on the other side of the river.

The Mexican-American border is constantly changing, not just by treaty, but by the persistent erosion of the Rio Grande. As a natural boundary, the river's channel determines the technical border between the two countries. Historically, the Rio…

Rows of plants, with Landrum Cemetery in background off U.S. Highway 281.

Vegetation, with Balli cemetery off U.S. Highway 281 in the background.

Highway 281 with palm tree poles and vegetation in the background.

Grass levee off U.S. Highway 281 with vegetation and pump station in background.

The character of the landscape along the Rio Grande is determined by its use, even if only as a place to cross. Millions of what were then pejoratively called"wet-backs," mojados, "illegal aliens," or more appropriately undocumented workers attempt…

Dirt path in between a field of sunflowers.

This abandoned section of the Rio Grande at La Chapena is being cleared of brush and turned into a settling basin for agricultural water.

Dry rescaca (oxbow lake) with sparse vegetation.

Most automobile traffic crosses the Rio Grande at established bridge points at one of the fifteen sister cities. This "International Ferry" at Los Ebanos is the last hand-pulled ferry along the river. It can carry three vehicles per trip. Privately…

Fence and dirt road surrounded by vegetation. In the background, the International Bridge at Roma-Los Saenz is visible.

Three main cultural factors influence the flow and course of the Rio Grande. The first is the large and growing agricultural network, including diversion dams, reservoirs, and irrigation canals. The second is the development of urban water and power…

An abandoned road approaches a flooded area where vegetation has started to grow.

On the side of a road, an old boating sign that reads "ENJOY SAFE BOATING" is hidden behind overgrown plants.

The stone foundation was evacuated and flooded as part of Falcon Reservoir. The level of the Reservoir has been lowered, revealing the overgrown streets, foundations, and sidewalks. The property is now owned by a local rancher, and is being used for…

A fence cuts across a ridge. On both sides, trees and vegetation populate the landscape.