“Sugar Industry Is Not Coming Back” as Valley Loses 500 Jobs and $100 Million a Year in Revenue
· Texas Border Business
Brian Jones, Texas Farm Bureau State Director for District 13, highlighted the severe impact of prolonged water shortages on agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley during the RGV Connect Water Forum. He noted the closure of the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Mill in February 2024, resulting in a permanent loss of 500 jobs and $100 million in annual revenue. Citrus production has significantly decreased, dropping from 11 million cartons in 2020 to 5.6 million in 2025. Farmers are adapting by shifting to lower-water crops, but challenges remain as water availability continues to affect market stability and job security in the region.
AI summary · Source: Texas Border Business →
