711.12155/145: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Mexico (Sheffield)
176. By Minute No. 61, recently adopted, the International Boundary Commission, United States and Mexico, recommended three cut-offs in the Rio Grande in and near El Paso, the result of which, if made, would, according to the accompanying reports of consulting engineers on the Commission, obviate the danger of floods in that section and in a considerable section below.
Since the adoption of that minute, a flood has occurred and is understood to be raging now, which has already caused much property loss on both sides of the River. Consequently, the recommendations would appear to merit immediate consideration with a view to their approval by both Governments, unless insuperable obstacles exist concerning which this Government is not informed.
The Department is advised that the proposed cut-offs would segregate but very small areas of land and believes that the question of sovereignty over these areas could well be held in abeyance for the present in view of the large interests which are menaced by floods.
It is therefore desired that you bring this matter urgently to the attention of the Mexican Government and say that it is hoped that Government will see its way clear to making a prompt decision in favor of approving the Commission’s recommendations.