Will Texas Have Enough Water Tomorrow?

Nueces County and the state of Texas is suffering through its worst single-year drought on record. The lack of rain has a negative impact on our state's lake levels, rivers, as well as negatively affecting  businesses and agricultural production in our state. If it doesn't rain in moderate amounts soon many cities may be forced to implement some form of water restrictions as we approach the summer months.   Already some small communities are having to haul in their water by truck.

To examine the effects of the severe 2011 drought in Texas and to discuss the Texas Water Development Board's estimates of what will be needed to ensure adequate water supplies in the future, Texas Comptroller Susan Combs released a report this week titled The Impact of the 2011 Drought and Beyond. 

The current drought is the worst single-year Texas drought since recordkeeping. Estimates by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service put Texas agricultural losses for the year at $5.2 billion.  A December economic analysis by BBVA Compass Bank found that indirect drought losses to the State agricultural industries could add another $3.5 billion to the toll. 

The Texas Water Development Board's 2012 State Water Plan predicts water demand in Texas will rise by 22 percent by 2060, and estimates that if Texas does not plan ahead, a drought as bad as that of the 1950s could cost Texans $116 billion a year by 2060, and could cause the potential loss of more than one million jobs. However, planning ahead comes with a big price tag. Building new reservoirs and wastewater treatment plants and other water infrastructure is projected to cost $53 billion.  Where will that money come from?

How bad is the situation? The report states "In serious drought conditions, Texas does not and will not have enough water to meet the needs of its people, and its businesses, and its agricultural enterprises."Currently 13 communities across Texas, including the Austin suburbs Leander and Cedar Park as well as Groesbeck, are on the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's "high priority" water list, which covers cities and towns that may either run out of water within six months if nothing changes (like rainfall or a new pipeline connection).

In order to address our State's future needs, Comptroller Combs contacted water planners in cities in New Mexico and Arizona who have struggled with water issues since the 1980s and 1990s.  Their strategies range from diversifying water portfolios to draw water from different sources, to providing rebates for landscaping with native, drought-tolerant plants. 

This water report provides useful information as we look for broad range solutions to water issues.  To view the report, please visit  http://www.window.state.tx.us/specialrpt/drought/

Due to the serious nature of this problem the issue of water supply will be one of the top three issues that will have to be addressed by the 83^rd Texas Legislature that begins next January.

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue or any other topic our office is always ready to assist you.