Water Manager confirms Arbuckle reservoir ready for summer industrial supply

The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) recently announced significant progress regarding the Arbuckle Reservoir, which has reached full capacity and is set to play a crucial role in the region's water supply. During the LCRA Board meeting on March 26, 2025, officials confirmed that the reservoir is performing well and is expected to be integrated into the water supply portfolio by summer, pending further testing.

This development comes at a time when the region is experiencing a weak La Niña, with forecasts suggesting a shift to ENSO neutral conditions in April. While this change is generally favorable, the Climate Prediction Center warns of average to below-normal rainfall in the coming months, which could impact water availability.

The Arbuckle Reservoir, which can hold up to 90,000 acre-feet of water, is anticipated to provide much-needed flexibility in water management, especially for industrial users in the Gulf Coast area. Currently, agricultural water supply is turned off for certain lower basin users, but the reservoir will allow LCRA to meet the needs of industrial customers more efficiently. This is particularly important as the demand from existing industrial users is estimated at around 20,000 acre-feet annually, with additional demand expected from new customers.

The board emphasized that the successful operation of Arbuckle represents a significant milestone, as discussions about the reservoir began over a decade ago. The ability to dispatch water from Arbuckle not only enhances the LCRA's water management capabilities but also supports environmental flows to the bay, ensuring a balanced approach to water distribution.

As the LCRA moves forward with testing and operational planning, the community can look forward to a more resilient water supply system that addresses both current and future demands. The integration of Arbuckle into the water management strategy is a positive step toward ensuring sustainable water resources for the region.