A canal in the Mercedes area where a Progreso ISD student drowned is privately owned, officials said.

Hidalgo and Cameron Counties Irrigation District Number 9 told Channel 5 News the canal is privately owned and maintained by the irrigation district. Officials also said fishing along the canal is not allowed.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife and local law enforcement are responsible for stopping trespassers in the area.

Two gates block access to the canal from the entrance near Highway 491. A "no trespassing" sign is posted on one side near the highway.

Channel 5 News asked whether more warning signs or security measures would be added around the canal but has not yet received a response.

As previously reported, 17-year-old Samuel Hernandez drowned in the canal while fishing with friends on May 24. The Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office said Hernandez went into the water after a fishing line got stuck in the canal.

READ MORE: Progreso High School student drowns in canal near Mercedes

His body was found after an overnight search. A Progreso Independent School District board member confirmed Hernandez was a Progreso High School quarterback who just finished his junior year.

Progreso ISD postponed its Tuesday school board meeting in light of his death. The district said counseling and support services remain available for students and staff at Progreso High School.