Rep. Vikki Goodwin - Texas Water Policies
Overview
Water is one of Texas' most precious and limited resources. It is essential for Texans' daily lives, operating businesses, and continuing industry. Population growth, increasing drought conditions, and aging infrastructure have brought Texas to a critical point. In 2023, the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District, between Austin and San Antonio, declared a stage four drought for the first time in its 36-year history, requiring a 30% reduction in water usage to maintain critical infrastructure. Texas risks losing $153 billion in income and nearly 1.4 million jobs by 2070 if we cannot meet state water needs. For the well-being of Texans and the Texas economy, we must act now.
Solution
Protecting water in Texas requires a layered approach. This includes participation at every level – from homes to businesses – to meet our growing water needs. We must fix leaking pipes, maintain the water infrastructure, and create sound water plans at both the regional and state levels. Common sense measures, education, and proactive policy changes are key to a secure water future for Texas.
Policies
Right to Xeriscaping
A bill passed in 2013 allowed Texans to use drought-resistant landscaping or water-conserving natural turf. Xeriscaping is by far the most water-conscious landscaping option available. However, HOAs often stand in the way of residents trying to use this essential conservation tool. Eliminating barriers for Texans who want to plant drought-conscious landscaping will help reduce one of the biggest drains on our water supply.
No Penalty for Brown Grass
Brown grass is part of the natural lifespan of native grasses. Allowing a lawn to brown during a drought conserves water and fits into the lifespan of native grasses. Many HOAs across Texas require residents to maintain green grass despite the critical need to conserve water. Texans ought to have a right to conserve water during extreme drought.
Supporting Sound Water Infrastructure
Private water companies or neighborhoods lack the funding needed to make the necessary improvements to pipes, resulting in leaks, poor water pressure, and the inability to execute critical functions. Increasing access to funding for these entities to make essential capital improvements would reduce water loss and support our growing state.
Using Purple Pipe at the Capitol
Conservation efforts should start in the heart of Texas, in our Capitol Building. Travis County's plan to expand reclaimed water use to two court buildings will permanently eliminate its use of 45 million gallons a year and create considerable cost savings. Over 22,000 gallons of water were used to irrigate the south side of the Capitol grounds in 2023. Conserving potable water for drinking and other critical functions and expanding our reuse programs is a crucial step to increase water conservation efforts at the Capitol.
Ensuring the Texas Water Plan Accurately Reflects Our Resources
Planning for a secure water future in Texas is complex. Our state plan should accurately reflect the water landscape in Texas. By requiring an evaluation of the State Water Plan and removing unrealistic sourcing data, incomplete water projects, and other inaccuracies, we will ensure that we have an accurate understanding of the resources available and demands on Texas water.
Water Education for All Texans
We use water every day, but many Texans do not understand where their water comes from or how precious this resource is. Requiring new homeowners and new Texans to receive information on the state of water in Texas, conservation strategies, and the need for smart water usage will increase understanding about water in Texas and encourage consumers to think about the water they use every day.
Protecting Our Resources with Excessive Water Usage Fees
While many water districts and municipalities across the state already charge excessive use fees during drought, codifying the right to charge these fees is important. Moreover, providing permissive language is important for smaller municipalities and water providers that may lack the resources to investigate the legality of charging such fees.
Discourage Developers from Planting Water-Intensive Landscaping on New Construction
As Texas continues to grow, so do water demands. However, steps must be taken to ensure future development is done sustainably. Legislation that bans water-intensive landscaping and/or turf in new developments will ensure our state will grow responsibly.