About the District

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (the District) was founded in 1987 by the Texas legislature. As a groundwater conservation district, we’re a local entity authorized by the state to work with well owners to protect aquifers and manage the use of groundwater throughout our territory.  

Drought Status

The District has declared Stage 3 Exceptional Drought, effective October 1, 2025. We have been in various levels of drought since July 2022. The District’s drought status is based on two determinants: Barton Springs flow and Lovelady monitor well groundwater levels, as seen on the right. With Texas Hill Country aquifers at severe lows, it’s essential for all community members in the District to meet their groundwater restrictions and continue to conserve this precious resource. 

District Drought Chart
District Drought Chart
15 cfs
10-day avg
456.5 msl
10-day avg
Last Updated: 10/1/25

Next Board Meeting

Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 5pm

The next meeting is a Regular Board Meeting, which is held on the second Thursday of each month unless otherwise noted. This meeting will take place at the District’s office, located at 1124 Regal Row, Austin, TX 78748. Board Meetings will also be accessible virtually via Microsoft Teams.

What's New at the District

Drought updates, aquifer studies, upcoming events, and more

Drought Update: September 2025

RainfallSeptember was extremely dry in Central Texas. Camp Mabry picked up only 0.08 inches of rain, and Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) saw just 0.18 inches. On average, that’s only 0.13 inches across the area –

Charlie Flatten Hired as New General Manager of the District 

The District is pleased to announce the appointment of Charlie Flatten as its new General Manager, effective October 13, 2025. A Hill Country native, Flatten brings a wealth of experience in groundwater policy, regional planning,

District Declares Exceptional Drought for Second Time in History  

Photo of District staff measuring groundwater level at the Lovelady monitor well | July 2025 The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (District) has declared Stage 3 Exceptional Drought (formerly known as Stage IV Exceptional Drought),

Drought Update: August 2025

Last month was mild compared to recent Augusts, but it may be surprising to hear that temperatures still averaged 0.5 degrees above normal. Rainfall across the area was below average, and the lack of precipitation