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BSEAD staff lean over a cliff to measure a lake that's fed by the Edwards Aquifer.

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 government entity authorized to work with well owners to protect aquifers and manage the use of groundwater throughout our territory.  

Drought Status

The District is currently in Stage III Critical Drought and has been in various levels of drought since July 2022. District 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. 

Onion Creek flows between a wall of Edwards Limestone and a rocky bank covered in vegetation.

Next Board Meeting

Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 5pm

The next meeting is a Regular Board Meeting. The District holds Board Meetings on the second Thursday of each month. The meeting will be held at the District’s office at 1124 Regal Row, Austin, TX 78748.

What's New at the District

Find drought updates, aquifer studies, and relevant articles on all things District-related
District staff measure the Lovelady monitor well. On the right the staff member holds an orange measuring tape. On the left is the well along with the gauge that records measurements daily.

Drought Update – September 2024

The District declared Stage III Critical Drought today, October 3. This is a result of the Lovelady monitor well’s 10-day groundwater level reaching 462.6 feet mean sea level (ft-msl), which is below the District’s Stage

Message from the General Manager – October 2024

Cooler mornings are a welcome reminder that we’re transitioning from the extreme heat of summer to enjoyable fall temperatures. If only such optimism translated to the state of our life-sustaining aquifers. As I write, the

District Declares Stage III Drought 

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (the District) officially declared Stage III Critical Drought on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Stage III declaration restrictions will take effect November 1.   This transition is a result of the

Post Construction Well Inspection: What we look for and why

There are several steps that must be taken to get a domestic well through the District. First you must complete the correct drilling application associated with your needs. Once that is approved you can hire