Infraestructura hidráulica del Bajío mexicano, entre la pequeña irrigación y los sistemas de riego, 1940-1970

This article discusses the progress and limitations of irrigation works in the irrigation districts located in the Bajio region of central Mexico, as well as their impact on the landscape and agrarian and territorial structure. It is based on documentary analysis from official sources of the Ministry of Hydraulic Resources, local collections and hemerography. The results show the diversification and intensification of the agricultural tradition abajeña, the relationship of local projects with Mexican irrigation policy, and the importance of water as a conditioning agent of rural development. It is suggested that, despite the success of the works, the technification processes led to an excessive use of water resources, so that surface water became insufficient for the demand of crops and producers.