About the District

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (the District) was founded in 1987 by the Texas legislature. As a groundwater conservation district, we’re a local entity authorized by the state to work with well owners to protect aquifers and manage the use of groundwater throughout our territory.  

Drought Status

The District has declared Stage 3 Exceptional Drought, effective October 1, 2025. We have been in various levels of drought since July 2022. The District’s drought status is based on two determinants: Barton Springs flow and Lovelady monitor well groundwater levels, as seen on the right. With Texas Hill Country aquifers at severe lows, it’s essential for all community members in the District to meet their groundwater restrictions and continue to conserve this precious resource. 

District Drought Chart
District Drought Chart
15 cfs
10-day avg
456.7 msl
10-day avg
Last Updated: 9/23/25

Next Board Meeting

Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 5pm

The next meeting is a Regular Board Meeting, which is held on the second Thursday of each month unless otherwise noted. This meeting will take place at the District’s office, located at 1124 Regal Row, Austin, TX 78748. Board Meetings will also be accessible virtually via Microsoft Teams.

What's New at the District

Drought updates, aquifer studies, upcoming events, and more

District Declares Exceptional Drought for Second Time in History  

Photo of District staff measuring groundwater level at the Lovelady monitor well | July 2025 The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (District) has declared Stage 3 Exceptional Drought (formerly known as Stage IV Exceptional Drought),

Drought Update: August 2025

Last month was mild compared to recent Augusts, but it may be surprising to hear that temperatures still averaged 0.5 degrees above normal. Rainfall across the area was below average, and the lack of precipitation

Updates to District’s Drought Chart: Effective September 1, 2025

Pictured is the District’s new drought sign for Stage 2 Critical Drought, which will take effect September 1, 2025. The Board of Directors of the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District has approved updates to the

General Manager Tim Loftus Steps Down After Years of Service

Dr. Tim Loftus has stepped down as General Manager of the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District, which took effect on August 8, 2025. Since he assumed the role in January 2022, he advanced the District’s