At their July 8, 2021, Board meeting, the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD) lifted the Stage II drought declaration and declared a No Drought Condition. This drought stage was lifted because the aquifer levels have recharged to above drought thresholds, thanks to recent rain events.
Although the District is now out of drought, Texas weather is hard to predict. Worst case scenario, without additional rain over the next couple of months, the District could return to Stage II Alarm Drought Status within 90-100 days. The BSEACD has initiated a voluntary 10% reduction of water use by all households within the District, including Ruby Ranch WSC and its members.
Ruby Ranch WSC encourages continued conservation, with July and August often being the hottest and driest times of the year. In the summer months, outdoor water use is significantly higher and can account for 60% or more of total home water use. Planting native or drought tolerant landscapes, mulching, and using compost can substantially reduce the amount of irrigation water required to keep plants healthy.
There are other ways to conserve water without upsetting your daily routine. For helpful tips on ways to conserve, we encourage you to visit the website of the Texas Water Development Board at www.twdb.texas.gov. The BSEACD is another excellent source to keep abreast of the current area drought conditions and may be accessed at www.bseacd.org.
We appreciate your attention to this very critical issue, and so does your neighbors! If you have any questions, please contact our office by calling (512) 894-3322 or email custsvc1@pgms.net.