This document summarizes efforts to protect the threatened Salado salamander in Bell County, Texas. The Bell County Adaptive Management Coalition was formed in 2013 to fund research on the Edwards aquifer and address threats like groundwater pumping. Conservation easements have been established at sites like Solana Ranch Springs. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is under a court order to propose critical habitat for the salamander by August 2020. The coalition will develop comments on the proposed designation. Options being considered include developing an alternative habitat map and discussing a 4(d) rule and other options with stakeholders. Research and outreach to landowners will continue.
The document discusses a 7 step process but provides no details about the actual steps or content of the process. It is unclear what the overall topic or goal of the process is based on the limited information given.
EPA’s Draft Ambient Water Quality Criteria Recommendations for Lakes and Rese...TWCA
EPA released draft ambient water quality criteria recommendations for lakes and reservoirs in May 2020. The draft uses stressor-response models based on new water quality data to derive chlorophyll-a, phosphorus, and nitrogen criteria. It recommends chlorophyll-a criteria ranges for different lake depths to protect aquatic life. Potential criteria derived from models show illustrative phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations corresponding to chlorophyll-a levels. The document's approach raises questions about the validity of nationwide models, adjustment to Texas conditions, and linking chlorophyll-a to nutrient criteria. State regulators will determine how to respond.
Texas Extreme Weather Trends, John Nielsen-Gammon - Texas State Climatologist...TWCA
Texas is experiencing increasing extreme weather trends according to a state climatologist study. Monthly summer temperatures are seeing more 100 degree days with each little rise in average temperatures. Precipitation trends over the past century show increases across most of the state of 5-15% per century. Droughts and floods depend on a combination of factors including rainfall amounts, temperatures, timing of rain, and how much water plants need. The trends towards higher temperatures are enhancing evaporation and severe weather is increasing but not well understood. Everything fits together complicatedly to impact floods and droughts. A likely La Niña winter also tilts the odds toward a dry winter for Texas.
This document summarizes flood mitigation funding sources from various state agencies in Texas. It lists panelists from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas General Land Office, and Texas Water Development Board who manage programs that provide funding for flood mitigation projects. These include grants from FEMA, the Community Development Block Grant Mitigation program, and state programs that have allocated over $3 billion total for flood mitigation since 2015. It also describes the Texas Flood Information Clearinghouse website which is a resource for local governments to learn about available funding opportunities and determine which programs best fit their flood mitigation needs.
This document discusses SARS-CoV-2 and its presence in water and wastewater. It provides background on the utility company and existing water quality challenges. It then summarizes research on Coronaviruses, COVID-19, and the survivability and treatability of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. The document concludes with best practices for wastewater workers during the pandemic.
COVID-19 and the Workplace: Considerations for the Employers & Employees, Bru...TWCA
The document discusses considerations for employers and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. It outlines the implementation of a return to work plan in phases, with communication to employees at each stage. The plan includes implementing work shifts, social distancing measures, personal protective equipment, health protocols like temperature checks and sanitation. It also covers briefing employees on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and addressing common concerns about liability, accommodation of at-risk employees, and allowing some to work remotely.
This document summarizes efforts to protect the threatened Salado salamander in Bell County, Texas. The Bell County Adaptive Management Coalition was formed in 2013 to fund research on the Edwards aquifer and address threats like groundwater pumping. Conservation easements have been established at sites like Solana Ranch Springs. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is under a court order to propose critical habitat for the salamander by August 2020. The coalition will develop comments on the proposed designation. Options being considered include developing an alternative habitat map and discussing a 4(d) rule and other options with stakeholders. Research and outreach to landowners will continue.
The document discusses a 7 step process but provides no details about the actual steps or content of the process. It is unclear what the overall topic or goal of the process is based on the limited information given.
EPA’s Draft Ambient Water Quality Criteria Recommendations for Lakes and Rese...TWCA
EPA released draft ambient water quality criteria recommendations for lakes and reservoirs in May 2020. The draft uses stressor-response models based on new water quality data to derive chlorophyll-a, phosphorus, and nitrogen criteria. It recommends chlorophyll-a criteria ranges for different lake depths to protect aquatic life. Potential criteria derived from models show illustrative phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations corresponding to chlorophyll-a levels. The document's approach raises questions about the validity of nationwide models, adjustment to Texas conditions, and linking chlorophyll-a to nutrient criteria. State regulators will determine how to respond.
Texas Extreme Weather Trends, John Nielsen-Gammon - Texas State Climatologist...TWCA
Texas is experiencing increasing extreme weather trends according to a state climatologist study. Monthly summer temperatures are seeing more 100 degree days with each little rise in average temperatures. Precipitation trends over the past century show increases across most of the state of 5-15% per century. Droughts and floods depend on a combination of factors including rainfall amounts, temperatures, timing of rain, and how much water plants need. The trends towards higher temperatures are enhancing evaporation and severe weather is increasing but not well understood. Everything fits together complicatedly to impact floods and droughts. A likely La Niña winter also tilts the odds toward a dry winter for Texas.
This document summarizes flood mitigation funding sources from various state agencies in Texas. It lists panelists from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas General Land Office, and Texas Water Development Board who manage programs that provide funding for flood mitigation projects. These include grants from FEMA, the Community Development Block Grant Mitigation program, and state programs that have allocated over $3 billion total for flood mitigation since 2015. It also describes the Texas Flood Information Clearinghouse website which is a resource for local governments to learn about available funding opportunities and determine which programs best fit their flood mitigation needs.
This document discusses SARS-CoV-2 and its presence in water and wastewater. It provides background on the utility company and existing water quality challenges. It then summarizes research on Coronaviruses, COVID-19, and the survivability and treatability of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. The document concludes with best practices for wastewater workers during the pandemic.
COVID-19 and the Workplace: Considerations for the Employers & Employees, Bru...TWCA
The document discusses considerations for employers and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. It outlines the implementation of a return to work plan in phases, with communication to employees at each stage. The plan includes implementing work shifts, social distancing measures, personal protective equipment, health protocols like temperature checks and sanitation. It also covers briefing employees on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and addressing common concerns about liability, accommodation of at-risk employees, and allowing some to work remotely.
Harmful Algal Bloom Lady Bird Lake 2019, Sara Hartley and Brent Bellinger - C...TWCA
The document summarizes the City of Austin's response to a harmful algal bloom (HAB) that occurred in Lady Bird Lake in 2019. It provides background on HABs and cyanobacteria, details the monitoring and communication plans for 2020, and reviews factors that may have contributed to the 2019 event. The city aims to routinely monitor water quality, identify algal species and toxins present, and inform the public through signage, media, and an online resource on the current HAB risk level. Questions from attendees are invited.
The History, Science & Economics of Bringing Back Comanche Springs, Robert Ma...TWCA
This document discusses strategies for restoring flow to Comanche Springs in Fort Stockton, Texas. It analyzes the relationship between pumping in Management Zone 1 of the Middle Pecos Groundwater Conservation District and spring flow. Reducing pumping by methods like permit retirement, irrigation efficiency, and crop switching could help bring the springs back. Funding may come from sources like the US Bureau of Reclamation, Texas Water Development Board, or bond issuances supported by new revenues from tourism drawn to restored spring flow. Full restoration may require reducing pumping by around 50,000 acre-feet per year.
Texas Dam Safety, Warren Samuelson - TCEQ and Protecting Your Flood Control D...TWCA
The document provides information about Texas' dam safety program and watershed dams. It notes that Texas has over 7,000 total dams, with nearly 1,800 classified as high or significant hazard. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulates most dams in the state. Watershed dams were built with NRCS assistance, and now local sponsors are responsible for maintenance. However, as dams age, maintenance costs have increased, with $14 million needed currently. Urban development has also led to over 500 watershed dams being reclassified as high hazard. The TSSWCB and NRCS provide funding to help sponsors with repairs and upgrades.
Case Law Update, Kimberly G. Kelley - Bickerstaff Heath Delgado Acosta LLP an...TWCA
The document provides a summary of key case law updates from 2020 related to water law. It discusses rulings on the Clean Water Act's regulation of groundwater pollution, original actions involving interstate water compacts, and challenges to the Waters of the US rule. It also summarizes cases related to groundwater districts, inverse condemnation and flooding liability, governmental immunity, the Expedited Declaratory Judgment Act, and certificates of convenience and necessity for water utilities. The document analyzes these recent decisions and their implications for water rights and management in Texas.
The document summarizes a presentation on the EPA's new proposed Waters of the U.S. rule. It outlines the key aspects of the 2015 rule, the litigation and stays surrounding it, and the EPA's new proposed two-step process to redefine and narrow the scope of protected waters. The proposal focuses on traditional navigable waters, tributaries, certain ditches, lakes and ponds, and adjacent wetlands but excludes many features that were previously protected such as waste treatment systems, groundwater, ephemeral streams, and certain ditches.
Everybody Has an Opinion: Flood Litigation, Legislation, and Action, Allison ...TWCA
The document summarizes discussions from the TWCA Annual Conference regarding recent Texas legislation and rulemaking related to flood control projects. Key points include:
- Texas passed SB 7 and SB 8 in 2019 related to flood project financing and planning. The TWDB has since proposed rules to implement these bills.
- Proposed Chapter 363 rules regarding SB 7 financing require findings of cooperation/participation between political subdivisions in a project's watershed. Comments suggested defining the watershed to clarify which entities must be involved.
- Rules require an affidavit attesting to certain criteria, but comments proposed tying the criteria to the defined project watershed.
- SB 7 also implements previous requirements for memoranda of understanding between relevant
Endangered Species Act Panel, Nathan Pence - Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority...TWCA
The document summarizes the endangered species listing process and species to track under the Endangered Species Act in central Texas. It provides details on mussel species in central and east Texas that are undergoing species status assessments and listing decisions. It also lists species in the agency's listing workplans for fiscal years 2020 through 2023, including plants, birds, fish, salamanders and other terrestrial species. The presentation cautions that lack of data on species distributions, life histories, tolerances and population numbers could impact listing decisions. It concludes with lessons learned from California's experience with ESA listings and water projects, emphasizing the need for proactive conservation, science, coordination and public education.
KEYNOTE: Commissioner Jayne Harkins - International Boundary and Water Commis...TWCA
The USIBWC Commissioner presented on the agency's projects and priorities. Key priorities included border sanitation, treaty water deliveries, and infrastructure maintenance. Major projects discussed were the Rio Grande Canalization Project which involves sediment removal, the American Canal rehabilitation, and the Amistad and Falcon Dams. The agency is also focused on water management, border security, and developing a new 5-year strategic plan through stakeholder input to guide priorities and performance metrics. The budget has increased in recent years but continued investment is needed to address aging infrastructure and mitigate dam safety risks.
KEYNOTE: Director Kathleen Jackson - Texas Water Development BoardTWCA
The document discusses new Texas state programs and funding for flood planning, mapping, and mitigation following Hurricane Harvey and the 2019 legislative session. Over $1.4 billion will be available through programs like the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund and Floodplain Management Account. The Texas Water Development Board is improving flood mapping and models using LiDAR data and regional flood planning groups will create regional flood plans to guide flood risk management. The goal is better data, science, and policy to protect Texans from flooding.
KEYNOTE: Josh Roberts - Texas Division of Emergency Management TWCA
The document provides information on emergency management in Texas, including guidelines on handwashing and staying home when sick to prevent the spread of illness. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) in coordinating emergency response at the state level. TDEM works with local governments and disaster districts to respond to incidents and request state or federal assistance when needed.
What You Need to Know About NOAA Atlas 14, Gregory Waller - National Oceanic ...TWCA
The document provides information about NOAA Atlas 14, which updated precipitation frequency estimates for Texas. Some key points:
- Atlas 14 analyzed over 3,900 weather stations and 60 years of data to develop new intensity-duration-frequency curves for precipitation events.
- The estimates generally show higher rainfall amounts than previous studies, with some locations up to 30% higher for certain storm durations and return periods.
- Notable events like Hurricane Harvey influenced some long-duration estimates. Atlas 14 provides more spatially refined data to help infrastructure planning and flood risk assessment.
- While an improvement, Atlas 14 still has limitations and uncertainties that may be addressed through future updates and complementary studies. The new precipitation frequency curves do
An Overview of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers’ Produced Water White P...TWCA
This document discusses sustainable produced water policy and management in the Texas oil and gas industry from 2019 onward. It defines produced water as water extracted during oil and gas production that may include formation water, injected water, and added fluids. The majority comes from Texas shale plays like the Permian Basin, which accounts for over 65% of the state's produced water volume. The goals of produced water policy in Texas are outlined, along with 2019 legislative activity and 10 policy recommendations. Meetings held by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers in Washington D.C. with EPA, DOE, and legislators are summarized. The role of water midstream companies in infrastructure for sourcing, transporting, treating and recycling produced water is also
Adding ASR to a Surface Water Provider’s Portfolio, Dan Buhman and Zach Huff ...TWCA
The document discusses a demonstration well location. It provides no other details about the location, purpose, or parties involved in the well. In just 3 sentences, this summary captures the core topic and lack of specifics contained within the source material.
Planning for Alternative Water Supplies in Texas, Jason Afinowicz - Freese & ...TWCA
The document discusses planning for alternative water supplies in Texas over the next 50 years. It notes that the increasing demand for water has encouraged exploring non-traditional sources like aquifer storage and recovery, demand management, desalination, and water reuse. These alternative strategies will represent a major shift in how water planning is conducted and implemented. Charts show that while traditional surface and groundwater currently make up most of the supply, alternative sources are projected to increase substantially to 85% of the projected 2070 supply.
Environmental Permitting of Lake Ralph Hall, Larry Patterson and Ed Motley -...TWCA
This document summarizes a presentation given at the 2020 Texas Water Conservation Annual Convention about the Lake Ralph Hall water supply project. It describes the multi-decade long planning and permitting process for the proposed reservoir, including obtaining water rights and Clean Water Act permits from the TCEQ and USACE. These permits required extensive environmental review, public input, and mitigation plans to offset impacts to waters and cultural resources. Recent proposed changes to waters of the U.S. and NEPA regulations could have significantly reduced the mitigation requirements and expedited the permitting process for Lake Ralph Hall.
Developing and Researching Brackish Groundwater: High Plains Water District’s...TWCA
The High Plains Water District adopted a scope of work in 2015 to study the Dockum Aquifer through tasks like creating a well inventory, water level and quality monitoring, partnering with USGS on logging, reviewing models and publications, identifying test well sites, and considering pilot wells. The study aims to evaluate the Dockum Aquifer as an alternative water source and address issues like economics, depth-salinity profiles, modeling, and treatment. HPWD has partnered with municipalities and established a program in 2020 to partner with constituents on new wells to obtain more aquifer data.
PFAS - Fort Worth’s Approach, Stacy Walters, and Mary Gugliuzza - Fort Worth...TWCA
Fort Worth Water Utility presented on their approach to addressing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Key points include:
- PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been widely used and can accumulate in the body; the EPA has issued sampling recommendations
- Fort Worth conducted PFAS sampling and testing of their water sources and found levels below EPA health advisory levels
- The utility focuses on risk communication and engaging the public through various online and in-person strategies
Got Streamflow? Why More Rain is Providing Less Streamflow in The Upper Color...TWCA
This document summarizes the findings of a study evaluating rainfall-runoff trends in the Upper Colorado River Basin. The study found that while total annual rainfall has remained stable, there have been decreases in the duration of dry periods and increases in average temperatures. These changes have led to increases in evapotranspiration and reductions in streamflow, despite similar or higher rainfall amounts. Through modeling and analysis, the study attributed these trends to increases in small ponds and impoundments, changes in land use and land cover increasing surface runoff, and potential impacts to groundwater recharge. The results indicate the system is becoming more efficient at retaining rainfall rather than producing streamflow.
TWDB Flood-Related Rulemaking Update - Howard SlobodinTWCA
The document summarizes a presentation about the Texas Water Development Board's (TWDB) implementation of Senate Bills 7 and 8 regarding statewide flood planning and financing in Texas. It discusses the major provisions and requirements of the bills, the TWDB's rulemaking process, and issues they are considering stakeholder feedback on. Key points include that the TWDB has begun rulemaking and is seeking input on rules regarding regional flood planning groups, benefit-cost analysis standards, project prioritization criteria, and other issues before proposed rules are published for public comment.
Getting the Most From Weather Data - Daniel Pearson, Mark Lenz, Nelun Fernand...TWCA
TWCA Fall Conference 2019 - (helpful links below)
USGS Links:
Water Alert - https://maps.waterdata.usgs.gov/mapper/wateralert/
National Water Information System: Web Interface - https://waterdata.usgs.gov/tx/nwis/current?type=flow
Water Services - https://waterservices.usgs.gov/
Texas Water Dashboard - https://txpub.usgs.gov/txwaterdashboard
NWS Austin/San Antonio - weather.gov/sanantonio
TWDB Links:
Water Data for Texas – https://waterdatafortexas.org/
Flood viewer - https://map.texasflood.org/#/
TexMesonet - https://www.texmesonet.org/
LCRA Hyrdromet - hydromet.lcra.org
Harmful Algal Bloom Lady Bird Lake 2019, Sara Hartley and Brent Bellinger - C...TWCA
The document summarizes the City of Austin's response to a harmful algal bloom (HAB) that occurred in Lady Bird Lake in 2019. It provides background on HABs and cyanobacteria, details the monitoring and communication plans for 2020, and reviews factors that may have contributed to the 2019 event. The city aims to routinely monitor water quality, identify algal species and toxins present, and inform the public through signage, media, and an online resource on the current HAB risk level. Questions from attendees are invited.
The History, Science & Economics of Bringing Back Comanche Springs, Robert Ma...TWCA
This document discusses strategies for restoring flow to Comanche Springs in Fort Stockton, Texas. It analyzes the relationship between pumping in Management Zone 1 of the Middle Pecos Groundwater Conservation District and spring flow. Reducing pumping by methods like permit retirement, irrigation efficiency, and crop switching could help bring the springs back. Funding may come from sources like the US Bureau of Reclamation, Texas Water Development Board, or bond issuances supported by new revenues from tourism drawn to restored spring flow. Full restoration may require reducing pumping by around 50,000 acre-feet per year.
Texas Dam Safety, Warren Samuelson - TCEQ and Protecting Your Flood Control D...TWCA
The document provides information about Texas' dam safety program and watershed dams. It notes that Texas has over 7,000 total dams, with nearly 1,800 classified as high or significant hazard. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulates most dams in the state. Watershed dams were built with NRCS assistance, and now local sponsors are responsible for maintenance. However, as dams age, maintenance costs have increased, with $14 million needed currently. Urban development has also led to over 500 watershed dams being reclassified as high hazard. The TSSWCB and NRCS provide funding to help sponsors with repairs and upgrades.
Case Law Update, Kimberly G. Kelley - Bickerstaff Heath Delgado Acosta LLP an...TWCA
The document provides a summary of key case law updates from 2020 related to water law. It discusses rulings on the Clean Water Act's regulation of groundwater pollution, original actions involving interstate water compacts, and challenges to the Waters of the US rule. It also summarizes cases related to groundwater districts, inverse condemnation and flooding liability, governmental immunity, the Expedited Declaratory Judgment Act, and certificates of convenience and necessity for water utilities. The document analyzes these recent decisions and their implications for water rights and management in Texas.
The document summarizes a presentation on the EPA's new proposed Waters of the U.S. rule. It outlines the key aspects of the 2015 rule, the litigation and stays surrounding it, and the EPA's new proposed two-step process to redefine and narrow the scope of protected waters. The proposal focuses on traditional navigable waters, tributaries, certain ditches, lakes and ponds, and adjacent wetlands but excludes many features that were previously protected such as waste treatment systems, groundwater, ephemeral streams, and certain ditches.
Everybody Has an Opinion: Flood Litigation, Legislation, and Action, Allison ...TWCA
The document summarizes discussions from the TWCA Annual Conference regarding recent Texas legislation and rulemaking related to flood control projects. Key points include:
- Texas passed SB 7 and SB 8 in 2019 related to flood project financing and planning. The TWDB has since proposed rules to implement these bills.
- Proposed Chapter 363 rules regarding SB 7 financing require findings of cooperation/participation between political subdivisions in a project's watershed. Comments suggested defining the watershed to clarify which entities must be involved.
- Rules require an affidavit attesting to certain criteria, but comments proposed tying the criteria to the defined project watershed.
- SB 7 also implements previous requirements for memoranda of understanding between relevant
Endangered Species Act Panel, Nathan Pence - Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority...TWCA
The document summarizes the endangered species listing process and species to track under the Endangered Species Act in central Texas. It provides details on mussel species in central and east Texas that are undergoing species status assessments and listing decisions. It also lists species in the agency's listing workplans for fiscal years 2020 through 2023, including plants, birds, fish, salamanders and other terrestrial species. The presentation cautions that lack of data on species distributions, life histories, tolerances and population numbers could impact listing decisions. It concludes with lessons learned from California's experience with ESA listings and water projects, emphasizing the need for proactive conservation, science, coordination and public education.
KEYNOTE: Commissioner Jayne Harkins - International Boundary and Water Commis...TWCA
The USIBWC Commissioner presented on the agency's projects and priorities. Key priorities included border sanitation, treaty water deliveries, and infrastructure maintenance. Major projects discussed were the Rio Grande Canalization Project which involves sediment removal, the American Canal rehabilitation, and the Amistad and Falcon Dams. The agency is also focused on water management, border security, and developing a new 5-year strategic plan through stakeholder input to guide priorities and performance metrics. The budget has increased in recent years but continued investment is needed to address aging infrastructure and mitigate dam safety risks.
KEYNOTE: Director Kathleen Jackson - Texas Water Development BoardTWCA
The document discusses new Texas state programs and funding for flood planning, mapping, and mitigation following Hurricane Harvey and the 2019 legislative session. Over $1.4 billion will be available through programs like the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund and Floodplain Management Account. The Texas Water Development Board is improving flood mapping and models using LiDAR data and regional flood planning groups will create regional flood plans to guide flood risk management. The goal is better data, science, and policy to protect Texans from flooding.
KEYNOTE: Josh Roberts - Texas Division of Emergency Management TWCA
The document provides information on emergency management in Texas, including guidelines on handwashing and staying home when sick to prevent the spread of illness. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) in coordinating emergency response at the state level. TDEM works with local governments and disaster districts to respond to incidents and request state or federal assistance when needed.
What You Need to Know About NOAA Atlas 14, Gregory Waller - National Oceanic ...TWCA
The document provides information about NOAA Atlas 14, which updated precipitation frequency estimates for Texas. Some key points:
- Atlas 14 analyzed over 3,900 weather stations and 60 years of data to develop new intensity-duration-frequency curves for precipitation events.
- The estimates generally show higher rainfall amounts than previous studies, with some locations up to 30% higher for certain storm durations and return periods.
- Notable events like Hurricane Harvey influenced some long-duration estimates. Atlas 14 provides more spatially refined data to help infrastructure planning and flood risk assessment.
- While an improvement, Atlas 14 still has limitations and uncertainties that may be addressed through future updates and complementary studies. The new precipitation frequency curves do
An Overview of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers’ Produced Water White P...TWCA
This document discusses sustainable produced water policy and management in the Texas oil and gas industry from 2019 onward. It defines produced water as water extracted during oil and gas production that may include formation water, injected water, and added fluids. The majority comes from Texas shale plays like the Permian Basin, which accounts for over 65% of the state's produced water volume. The goals of produced water policy in Texas are outlined, along with 2019 legislative activity and 10 policy recommendations. Meetings held by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers in Washington D.C. with EPA, DOE, and legislators are summarized. The role of water midstream companies in infrastructure for sourcing, transporting, treating and recycling produced water is also
Adding ASR to a Surface Water Provider’s Portfolio, Dan Buhman and Zach Huff ...TWCA
The document discusses a demonstration well location. It provides no other details about the location, purpose, or parties involved in the well. In just 3 sentences, this summary captures the core topic and lack of specifics contained within the source material.
Planning for Alternative Water Supplies in Texas, Jason Afinowicz - Freese & ...TWCA
The document discusses planning for alternative water supplies in Texas over the next 50 years. It notes that the increasing demand for water has encouraged exploring non-traditional sources like aquifer storage and recovery, demand management, desalination, and water reuse. These alternative strategies will represent a major shift in how water planning is conducted and implemented. Charts show that while traditional surface and groundwater currently make up most of the supply, alternative sources are projected to increase substantially to 85% of the projected 2070 supply.
Environmental Permitting of Lake Ralph Hall, Larry Patterson and Ed Motley -...TWCA
This document summarizes a presentation given at the 2020 Texas Water Conservation Annual Convention about the Lake Ralph Hall water supply project. It describes the multi-decade long planning and permitting process for the proposed reservoir, including obtaining water rights and Clean Water Act permits from the TCEQ and USACE. These permits required extensive environmental review, public input, and mitigation plans to offset impacts to waters and cultural resources. Recent proposed changes to waters of the U.S. and NEPA regulations could have significantly reduced the mitigation requirements and expedited the permitting process for Lake Ralph Hall.
Developing and Researching Brackish Groundwater: High Plains Water District’s...TWCA
The High Plains Water District adopted a scope of work in 2015 to study the Dockum Aquifer through tasks like creating a well inventory, water level and quality monitoring, partnering with USGS on logging, reviewing models and publications, identifying test well sites, and considering pilot wells. The study aims to evaluate the Dockum Aquifer as an alternative water source and address issues like economics, depth-salinity profiles, modeling, and treatment. HPWD has partnered with municipalities and established a program in 2020 to partner with constituents on new wells to obtain more aquifer data.
PFAS - Fort Worth’s Approach, Stacy Walters, and Mary Gugliuzza - Fort Worth...TWCA
Fort Worth Water Utility presented on their approach to addressing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Key points include:
- PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been widely used and can accumulate in the body; the EPA has issued sampling recommendations
- Fort Worth conducted PFAS sampling and testing of their water sources and found levels below EPA health advisory levels
- The utility focuses on risk communication and engaging the public through various online and in-person strategies
Got Streamflow? Why More Rain is Providing Less Streamflow in The Upper Color...TWCA
This document summarizes the findings of a study evaluating rainfall-runoff trends in the Upper Colorado River Basin. The study found that while total annual rainfall has remained stable, there have been decreases in the duration of dry periods and increases in average temperatures. These changes have led to increases in evapotranspiration and reductions in streamflow, despite similar or higher rainfall amounts. Through modeling and analysis, the study attributed these trends to increases in small ponds and impoundments, changes in land use and land cover increasing surface runoff, and potential impacts to groundwater recharge. The results indicate the system is becoming more efficient at retaining rainfall rather than producing streamflow.
TWDB Flood-Related Rulemaking Update - Howard SlobodinTWCA
The document summarizes a presentation about the Texas Water Development Board's (TWDB) implementation of Senate Bills 7 and 8 regarding statewide flood planning and financing in Texas. It discusses the major provisions and requirements of the bills, the TWDB's rulemaking process, and issues they are considering stakeholder feedback on. Key points include that the TWDB has begun rulemaking and is seeking input on rules regarding regional flood planning groups, benefit-cost analysis standards, project prioritization criteria, and other issues before proposed rules are published for public comment.
Getting the Most From Weather Data - Daniel Pearson, Mark Lenz, Nelun Fernand...TWCA
TWCA Fall Conference 2019 - (helpful links below)
USGS Links:
Water Alert - https://maps.waterdata.usgs.gov/mapper/wateralert/
National Water Information System: Web Interface - https://waterdata.usgs.gov/tx/nwis/current?type=flow
Water Services - https://waterservices.usgs.gov/
Texas Water Dashboard - https://txpub.usgs.gov/txwaterdashboard
NWS Austin/San Antonio - weather.gov/sanantonio
TWDB Links:
Water Data for Texas – https://waterdatafortexas.org/
Flood viewer - https://map.texasflood.org/#/
TexMesonet - https://www.texmesonet.org/
LCRA Hyrdromet - hydromet.lcra.org