Submitted to the Wimberley View, Friday, June 23, 2017
For those who live within the boundaries of western Hays County including residents within the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District (HTGCD) authority, this is an advisory to conserve your groundwater usage. It has been nearly two years since drought triggers, monitored by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), have shown a negative flow within the Blanco and Pedernales Rivers. During this period, our area has been fortunate to experience a greater than average yearly rainfall and recharge to the Trinity Aquifer. As you all are aware, drought cycles are a part of living in Texas…. it’s how we react to them that can make a difference. The data collected by the USGS can be viewed on the HTGCD website www.haysgroundwater.com under Quick Links / Drought Management. At this time, HTGCD remains within drought stage 1, No Drought/Voluntary Conservation, but conditions could change in the near future.
This may be the beginning of another hot and dry summer in our area, so your help by reducing personal groundwater usage can really make a difference. Outdoor watering is a large portion of personal and commercial groundwater use. Watering during the evening or early morning allows the water to seep into the ground and reduces evaporation. Be aware of the weather reports as rain can ease back the use of groundwater plus your plants will thank you.
This is an advisory to conserve water and every drop counts when cutting back your use of our Trinity Aquifer. All domestic use of groundwater is unregulated so we urge you to reduce when you can. If you are using groundwater or you would like to use groundwater for your business, you are required to apply for an operating permit with HTGCD.
Rick Broun – HTGCD District Manager
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