Bastrop County Begins Community Engagement for Aquifer Storage Recovery Project

The Austin Water and Wastewater Commission meeting on August 20, 2025, focused on several key updates regarding water management and supply strategies in the region. The discussions highlighted progress on the MiTX Water work, particularly in categorizing commercial, institutional, and industrial (CII) customers. Staff members, supported by interns, successfully completed this classification, which will help the commission analyze average usage and identify outliers among these customer groups.

Additionally, the commission addressed the implementation of notifications for customers who water outside of designated irrigation schedules, with further details expected in the upcoming quarterly report.

In terms of water supply, significant efforts are underway regarding the Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) project. The staff is collaborating with stakeholders in Bastrop County and plans to initiate community engagement activities in August. The commission is also developing an emergency implementation plan that includes indirect potable reuse, preparing for potential future water shortages.

The meeting also reviewed water usage statistics, noting an increase in gallons per capita daily (GPCD) as the region transitions from winter to spring. This seasonal variability in water use was illustrated through charts showing different categories of users, with single-family residential customers exhibiting the most significant fluctuations.

Looking ahead, the commission anticipates that the third quarter will bring further insights into water usage patterns, particularly during the hot and dry summer months. The outcomes of ongoing projects and initiatives will be reported in the next quarterly briefing, underscoring the commission's commitment to effective water management in Austin and surrounding areas.