Central Texas Water Coalition addresses water transfer concerns amid drought alerts

In a recent meeting of the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) held on March 26, 2025, discussions centered around pressing water management issues affecting Central Texas, particularly in light of ongoing drought conditions. The atmosphere was charged as the executive director of the Central Texas Water Coalition addressed the board, highlighting concerns raised by residents regarding water transfers from local lakes to cities like Round Rock, Leander, and Georgetown.

The executive director noted a surge of public interest and anxiety sparked by a recent social media post from the city of Round Rock, which showcased pipeline images and detailed the significant volume of water being diverted from the Highland Lakes. This situation has reignited fears among residents about the sustainability of their water resources, especially as Lake Travis faces low water levels. The director emphasized the need for better planning to accommodate the increasing demand for water, a challenge compounded by legislation such as House Bill 1437, which allows for such transfers.

In a related discussion, the director expressed concern over a proposed "right to brown grass" bill in Georgetown, which would prevent residents from being penalized for watering outside designated times. This proposal raised alarms about the potential impact on local water supplies, as the city manager indicated a return to more frequent watering schedules. The executive director urged the LCRA to enforce stricter drought contingency plans and water conservation practices for all cities benefiting from the lakes, questioning how local residents could be expected to conserve water while others were not held to the same standards.

The meeting also included a heartfelt tribute to Carol Cowan, who retired after 25 years of service with the LCRA. Cowan was recognized for his significant contributions to water safety and management, having developed crucial navigation programs that enhanced public safety on the waterways. His dedication and expertise were celebrated by colleagues, who expressed their gratitude for his years of service.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved on to address various resolutions and action items, including updates on basin conditions. The atmosphere remained hopeful, with board members sharing personal milestones, such as the recent birth of a grandchild, amidst the serious discussions about water management challenges.

The LCRA's commitment to addressing these pressing water issues remains critical as Central Texas grapples with the realities of drought and the need for sustainable water practices. The discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of collaboration among local governments and communities to ensure the responsible management of shared water resources.