Rio Conchos & US Connections Quiz
Rio Grande tributary context, border hydrology (10 questions).
Rio Conchos & US Connections Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Rio Conchos is Mexico’s largest and most significant tributary to the Rio Grande, playing a crucial role in the hydrology of the U.S.-Mexico border region. Its waters are vital for agriculture in Chihuahua and contribute substantially to the Rio Grande’s flow, particularly downstream of the confluence near Presidio, Texas, influencing water availability for both nations under international treaties.
Key Concepts
Rises in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains of Chihuahua, Mexico.
Joins the Rio Grande at the border between Presidio, Texas, and Ojinaga, Chihuahua.
Can contribute 50-70% of the Rio Grande’s flow below the confluence.
Governed by the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty, which allocates waters.
Key Takeaways
- The Rio Conchos is the most important Mexican tributary of the Rio Grande.
- It originates entirely within the Mexican state of Chihuahua.
- Its confluence with the Rio Grande occurs at the international border, significantly boosting the main river’s flow.
- The water contributions of the Rio Conchos are critical for downstream water users in Texas and Mexico.
- Water sharing and management of the Rio Conchos’ flow are central to U.S.-Mexico bilateral water relations.
- Agricultural irrigation in Chihuahua is a primary use of the Rio Conchos’ waters before they reach the Rio Grande.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rio Conchos?
The Rio Conchos is a major river in the Mexican state of Chihuahua and the largest tributary of the Rio Grande (Rio Bravo del Norte). It flows generally northeast through Chihuahua before joining the Rio Grande.
Where does the Rio Conchos join the Rio Grande?
The Rio Conchos joins the Rio Grande at the international border, specifically near Presidio, Texas, in the United States, and Ojinaga, Chihuahua, in Mexico.
Why is the Rio Conchos important to the Rio Grande?
The Rio Conchos is crucial because it significantly contributes to the flow of the Rio Grande, especially downstream from the confluence. It often provides the majority of the Rio Grande’s water volume in that section, vital for agriculture and communities in Texas.
How does the Rio Conchos relate to US-Mexico border hydrology?
As a major tributary flowing into the international section of the Rio Grande, the Rio Conchos’ flow is directly relevant to the U.S.-Mexico 1944 Water Treaty, which allocates Rio Grande waters between the two countries. Its management impacts water availability on both sides of the border.
Are there any international agreements concerning the Rio Conchos?
While the Rio Conchos itself is entirely within Mexico, its waters are subject to the principles of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty, which governs the allocation of Rio Grande waters. Mexico’s deliveries of water from its tributaries (including the Conchos) to the Rio Grande are stipulated in this treaty.
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