October 26 – TWDB hosted an HB 30 stakeholder to solicit input on the interpretive definition

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

3. October 26 – TWDB hosted an HB 30 stakeholder to solicit input on the interpretive definition of “significant impact” and “separated by hydrogeologic barriers sufficient to prevent significant impacts”. They also sought clarification on what counts as a “significant source” of existing brackish use by domestic, municipal, and agricultural use. a. The MPGCD submitted written comments highlighting several important considerations: 1) Brackish groundwater is actively utilized within the MPGCD jurisdiction. 2) TWDB and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reports indicate hydraulic connectivity between the Rustler and Capitan Reef aquifers and the Edwards-Trinity and Pecos Valley Aquifers. 3) Springs in Pecos County are typically brackish, and the Diamond Y Spring is a brackish, federally protected spring. The Rustler Aquifer is believed to supply water to Diamond Y Spring. In the past, overproduction of groundwater has caused many springs to go dry. 2016