San Antonio Water System outlines drought response and long-term planning strategies

San Antonio's water management strategy is set to undergo significant enhancements as the city grapples with severe drought conditions, highlighted during a recent municipal utilities meeting. The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) presented its 2025 Water Management Plan, which aims to secure the city's water supply for the next 50 years amid ongoing challenges.

The meeting, led by SAWS officials, underscored the urgency of addressing the current exceptional drought affecting Bexar County, now in its sixth year. With rainfall deficits reaching 55 inches since 2020, the city has been forced to implement critical period reductions, limiting water usage by 44%. This situation has prompted a call for substantial capital investments to upgrade aging infrastructure and manage water loss effectively.

SAWS officials reported that the city has made significant strides in diversifying its water supply, reducing reliance on the Edwards Aquifer from 100% to 52% through various projects, including the Vista Ridge and brackish groundwater desalination initiatives. These efforts are crucial as San Antonio's population continues to grow, projected to reach 3.5 million by 2075.

Key components of the 2025 plan include expanding the Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) treatment plant and developing new brackish water projects. The plan also emphasizes water conservation, aiming to reduce per capita water use to 87 gallons per day by 2075.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from SAWS to maintain a robust water supply and infrastructure, ensuring that San Antonio can withstand the challenges posed by both drought and population growth. As the city prepares for future demands, the focus remains on sustainable practices and innovative solutions to secure water resources for generations to come.