A Texas conservation district has declared an “exceptional drought” for only the second time in its 38-year history, as ongoing water shortages and declining aquifer levels continue to plague the region.
The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District, which oversees groundwater management in parts of Central Texas, announced it will enter a Stage 3 Exceptional Drought status beginning October 1.
Why It Matters
The aquifer is a critical water source and ecological system for Central Texas, especially the Austin area.
The exceptional drought designation activates mandatory water use reductions for more than 120 groundwater permit holders, including private well owners, utilities, and municipalities such as Buda and Kyle. Depending on permit type, reductions range from 30 to 100 percent…