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.
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.
Thursday, February 12, 2026 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.
2025 RecapWhile 2025 did not surpass Austin’s record for the hottest year, it still ranked among the city’s top five with an average temperature of 71.9°F. The hottest year on record remains 2024, with an
The District entered Stage 3 Exceptional Drought (previously known as Stage IV Exceptional Drought) on October 1, 2025—only the second time we’ve made such a declaration. Now, we are approaching the threshold for Stage 4
A permittee of the District since we first began issuing permits in 1988, the City of Buda has established a reputation for thoughtful, long-term water management. Through investments in modern technology, proactive planning, and infrastructure
You may remember our first Well Owner Spotlight article highlighting the impressive water conservation efforts of Victoria and Travis Cox in Driftwood, Texas. Now they’ve received well earned recognition from the state. The Texas Water