East Texas leaders oppose North Texas Water Department's plans to divert Lake Of The Pines water

The City Council of Longview, Texas, convened on April 10, 2025, to address critical water resource management issues affecting the region. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the potential sale of water from Lake of the Pines to the North Texas Water Department, which could have significant implications for local water availability and environmental health.

The discussion began with a presentation detailing the findings of a recent study indicating that while 70% of the time there is sufficient water in the area, 30% of the time, water levels could fall dangerously low, risking damage to downstream ecosystems, particularly Caddo Lake. Concerns were raised that if the proposed water sale proceeds, Caddo Lake could experience a drop to levels a foot lower than historic lows, jeopardizing its health and the surrounding environment.

Jerry Thomas, a seasoned engineer with over 50 years of experience managing Lake of the Pines, emphasized the importance of maintaining water flow to prevent stagnation, which can degrade water quality and harm aquatic life. He cautioned that drawing excessive water from the lake could lead to long-term detrimental effects on the local ecosystem.

The meeting also featured remarks from a local attorney who underscored the existential nature of the water issue, framing it as a "water war" for East Texas. He pointed out that as population pressures increase in North Texas, there is a growing demand for water resources from East Texas, which could lead to significant changes in water rights and management in the region.

The attorney further explained that the North Texas Water Department's plans include constructing a pipeline to transport large quantities of water from Lake of the Pines to the Dallas Metroplex. This proposal has raised alarms about the potential loss of local control over water resources, as the North Texas Water Department could gain precedence in water rights, particularly during drought conditions.

The council members were urged to consider the broader implications of these water management decisions, as they could fundamentally alter the landscape of water availability in East Texas. The meeting concluded with a call for careful consideration of the proposed water sale and its potential impact on the community and environment.

As the council deliberates on this pressing issue, the future of East Texas's water resources hangs in the balance, with significant consequences for both local residents and the ecosystem. The council plans to continue discussions and seek further input from stakeholders in the coming weeks.