The overview
According to a news release, permit holders in Medina, Bexar, and parts of Atascosa, Caldwell, Guadalupe, Comal and Hays counties have had their annual authorized withdrawal amounts reduced by 40%. based on the number of days the CPM is in effect for the indicated stage reduction.
These reductions apply to all Edwards Aquifer groundwater permit holders authorized to pump more than 3 acre-feet annually, including industrial and agricultural users and water utilities authorized to pump water from the Edwards Aquifer. Additionally, affected permit holders must also report their pumping totals to the EAA on a monthly basis.
Explained
According to a news release, the 10-day average at the J-17 index well is 625.2 feet above mean sea level and falls within the Stage 4 threshold for the EAA Critical Period Management Plan. Additionally, the 10-day average at Comal Springs is 64 cubic feet per second and the San Marcos Springs 10-day average is 82 cubic feet per second.
Prior to the adjustment, the J-17 index well in Bexar County was 33 feet below the historical average, which is the lowest level since 1990.
The backstory
The EAA is a groundwater conservation district that manages, enhances and protects the Edwards Aquifer, which is the major groundwater system serving approximately 2.5 million South Central Texans.
According to a news release, the EAA jurisdiction spans across 8 counties including Uvalde, Medina, Bexar, and parts of Atascosa, Caldwell, Guadalupe, Comal and Hays counties. The organization does not regulate the general public but instead regulates Edwards Aquifer well owners with withdrawal permits authorizing their right to pump from the aquifer.
