Guadalupe Blanco River Authority addresses severe drought impact on water supply management

The Comal County Commissioners Court meeting on April 17, 2025, featured a significant presentation by the General Manager and CEO of the Guadalupe Blanco River Authority (GBRA) regarding ongoing drought conditions and water management strategies in the region. The discussion highlighted the critical state of water resources in the area, which spans ten counties between Austin and San Antonio.

The GBRA, established in the 1930s, plays a vital role in managing water supplies for municipalities, utility districts, and industrial customers. The authority primarily relies on the Canyon Reservoir, which has been fully allocated for nearly two decades, providing 90,000 acre-feet of water annually. However, this supply has not been expanded, and any water transactions now occur only between existing users.

The presentation emphasized the severe drought conditions affecting the region, noting that the area has experienced five years of significant drought, with inflows into Canyon Lake at historic lows. The authority has implemented a drought contingency plan that includes voluntary and mandatory water use reductions based on reservoir levels. Currently, the reservoir is at approximately 40% capacity, prompting mandatory curtailments for contracted customers when levels drop further.

The GBRA also monitors environmental flow requirements, which are suspended during drought conditions to prioritize water supply needs. The authority's management strategies are crucial as they navigate the challenges posed by prolonged drought, which has been exacerbated by climate variability.

In addition to the Canyon Reservoir, the authority discussed the importance of the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies water to the Comal Springs area. Recent data indicated that March 2025 recorded the lowest spring flow ever for that month, underscoring the urgency of the water management situation.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued vigilance and cooperation among water users to adapt to the ongoing drought and ensure sustainable water resources for the future. The GBRA's proactive measures and transparent communication with stakeholders are essential as the region faces these pressing water supply challenges.