David Smith presentation

What are examples of surface water?

Lakes (reservoirs), streams, rivers, and ponds.

Who owns surface water in Texas?

The state of Texas.

What rule governs surface water rights in Texas?

First in time, first in right.

Who is the largest surface water right holder in Texas?

Dow Chemical.

What are the two types of groundwater in aquifers?

Potable and brackish.

How many major aquifers are there in Texas?

9 major aquifers.

What is the biggest aquifer in Texas and what is it mainly used for?

The Ogallala Aquifer, used for agricultural irrigation.

Who owns groundwater in Texas?

Property owners (not the state).

What rules govern groundwater rights in Texas?

Rule of Capture and Law of the Biggest Pump.

Can water rights be sold in Texas?

Yes, water rights can be sold like mineral rights (oil & gas).

What are some major water challenges in Texas?

Reduced water supply, population rise, land conversion/fragmentation, aging infrastructure/workforce, drought/flooding, private property infringement, and distant resources from population centers.

What is the Hydro-illogic Cycle?

A cycle of apathy about water issues until a crisis occurs.

What is an interbasin transfer?

Moving water from one basin to another (e.g., Heart’s Bluff for surface water, Vista Ridge for groundwater).

What is an acre-foot?

A unit of volume equal to the amount of water covering one acre of land to a depth of one foot.

What percentage of Texas water supply comes from surface water?

43%.

What percentage of Texas surface water use is municipal?

47%.

What percentage of Texas water supply comes from groundwater?

57%.

What percentage of Texas groundwater use is for agricultural irrigation?

73%.

What percentage of Texas water supply comes from reuse?

4%.

What is the longest river within Texas and how long is it?

The Brazos River, 840 miles long.

What is the only natural lake in Texas?

Caddo Lake.

What are the purposes of reservoirs?

Flood control, hydroelectric power, and water supply.

What are the limits to the Rule of Capture in Texas?

Maliciously taking water to injure a neighbor, wantonly wasting groundwater, negligently causing subsidence, pumping from a contaminated well, or trespassing to pump groundwater.