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Residents tell Parker County: data centers would threaten wells, wildlife and farmland
Summary
Dozens of residents at a Parker County hearing warned that large data centers could deplete private wells, harm Lake Weatherford, and disrupt eagles and other protected species; speakers asked the court to require groundwater studies, mitigation and enforceable commitments.
Multiple residents told the commissioners’ court they fear large data centers would draw down the water table, harm private wells and endanger wildlife around Lake Weatherford.
“One of the major concerns is our wells — our wells cannot withstand that kind of drawdown,” a resident from Rutherford said, urging the court to protect private well owners and local resources. Another speaker noted documented nesting eagles near the proposed orange zone on a map and said federal protections for endangered species could provide a legal avenue to slow or halt projects.
Speakers also urged measures such as requiring operators to capture rainwater and use solar to reduce groundwater dependence, tying tax incentives to enforceable environmental commitments, and pursuing contested-case hearings with the groundwater district if permits are filed.
