Current News & Updates

Aquifer District Out of Groundwater Drought
February 02, 2015

The Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District’s Directors declared a No-Drought condition for the aquifers within the District, effective immediately. The declaration comes after a wetter than normal winter that saturated soils and allowed runoff to generate stream flow in the recharge zone creeks. One of the area’s two groundwater drought indicators, Barton Springs discharge, has been above the Stage II Alarm Drought threshold since late November 2014.  On Thursday, January 29, 2015 the water level in the Lovelady Well crossed above its drought threshold; a rise of about 12 feet over 2.5 months. Both indicators need to be above their designated thresholds – and currently are – to emerge from drought.

The District declared a groundwater drought and has been enforcing mandatory water-use restrictions since August 15, 2014.  Sustained creekflow in the recharge zone creeks has generated substantial recharge to the aquifer.  Water levels are still below average, but with additional rainfall they could continue to rise.  Groundwater users are encouraged to maintain conservation practices, but mandatory pumping curtailments are lifted.

Additional Info:

·        Drought Status page with links to Drought Chart

·        Drought Monitor blog

·        Press Release archive