The details
Minimal rainfall and the ongoing heat wave have resulted in a decline in the Edwards Aquifer levels. As of June 28, the 10-day Edwards Aquifer level average is 637.2 cubic feet per second, the metric used to measure water pressure, which is below the Stage 3 trigger of 640 cfs, according to New Braunfels Utilities.
After nearly a year in Stage 3 drought restrictions, New Braunfels moved to Stage 2 on May 29 due to recent rains in the region.
New Braunfels Mayor Neal Linnartz has decided to stay in Stage 2 and closely monitor the drought situation. New Braunfels will remain in Stage 2 until further notice, and Stage 3 may be declared if conditions worsen, according to a news release.
“The decision to remain in Stage 2 did not come lightly and will align the New Braunfels Utilities service territory with neighboring water utilities, like the San Antonio Water System. More importantly, NBU’s prudent planning and investments in water resources have given our community a diverse and resilient water supply portfolio,” NBU Chief Operations Officer Ryan Kelso said.
Diving in deeper
Since the drought of 2011-14, the utility has diversified its water resources and more than doubled their sources of water, NBU said.
According to a city ordinance, water reduction measures may be based on the 10-day average of Edwards Aquifer water levels or on the discharge level of the Comal Springs, NBU water supply, or on aquifer water quality, potable water system capacity or seasonal weather conditions not based on water levels in the aquifer.
What you need to know
During Stage 2, watering is allowed one day a week. The schedule for the use of sprinkler or irrigation systems is based on the last digit of your address ending in:
- 0 or 1: Monday
- 2 or 3: Tuesday
- 4 or 5: Wednesday
- 6 or 7: Thursday
- 8 or 9: Friday
Updates on the water stage status will be provided to the community by NBU at nbutexas.com, Facebook @newbraunfelsutilities and Twitter @nbutexas.
