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 is in Stage 3 Exceptional Drought, which took effect October 1, 2025. We have been in continuous drought since July 2022. The District’s drought status is based on two determinants: Barton Springs flow and Lovelady monitor well groundwater levels. 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, August 13, 2026 at 5pm
The next meeting is a Regular Board Meeting and Public Hearing, 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.
Photo of Sculpture Falls taken on August 3, 2026. District’s Current Drought Status: Stage 3 Exceptional Drought July brought the first triple-digit temperatures of the year to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) and Camp Mabry, though
For many, the springs of Central Texas are more than swimming holes. Places like Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, San Pedro Springs, and Comal Springs live in memory, ritual, and identity. Hydrogeologists dedicate their careers
Choosing Rainwater Harvesting For most Texans, a private water well is a badge of independence. For Hank Miller, his well became the reason he stopped using groundwater almost entirely. Hank and his wife, Eva Reed, have lived in the River Mountain Ranch neighborhood since 2014 after moving from Mason
The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District Board of Directors will hold a Public Hearing at its regular meeting on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the District office, 1124 Regal Row, Austin, Texas,