Texas water utilities face dire shortages in coming decades

A recent government meeting highlighted alarming projections regarding Texas' water supply, with 52% of surveyed water utilities anticipating they will run out of water within the next 20 years. Over 80% of respondents expressed concerns about insufficient water to meet future demands, attributing potential shortages primarily to population growth, groundwater depletion, and inadequate funding.

Mary Alice, a representative from the Texas Water Development Board, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that many utilities have exhausted their nearest and most affordable water sources. She stressed the need for new water supplies, which typically require a 20 to 30-year planning horizon, urging immediate action to secure these resources.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by rural communities, where small water systems struggle to accommodate new developments. For instance, a small town may be unable to provide water to a new subdivision due to limited supply, leading to a crisis where local utilities are left seeking alternative sources, often with little success. The financial burden of digging new wells, estimated at around $1 million, poses a significant barrier for many rural utilities, which often operate on tight budgets.

Perry Fowler, executive director of the Texas Water Infrastructure Network, presented findings from the 2024 Texas Water Capital Needs Survey, revealing that aging infrastructure is a critical issue, with 55% of respondents citing it as a major concern. The survey also indicated that 43% of utilities believe their current water rate structures are inadequate to meet demand.

The meeting concluded with a call for increased funding to address these pressing water supply issues, as the demand for financial assistance from the Texas Water Development Board remains high. With 75% of survey respondents expressing interest in pursuing funding from newly established water funds, the need for immediate legislative action is clear to ensure Texas can secure its water future.