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 is in Stage 3 Exceptional Drought, which took effect October 1, 2025. We have been in continuous drought since July 2022. The District’s drought status is based on two determinants: Barton Springs flow and Lovelady monitor well groundwater levels. 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
16 cfs
10-day avg
457.1 msl
10-day avg
Last Updated: 9/9/26

Next Board Meeting

Friday, October 16, 2026 at 12pm

The next meeting is a Regular Board Meeting and Public Hearing, 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

Notice of Public Hearing – October 16, 2026

BSEACD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED RULES AND BYLAWS AMENDMENTS The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District Board of Directors will hold a rulemaking hearing at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the

Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District office

Cancellation of November 3, 2026 Election – BSEACD

The November 3, 2026, election for the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District has been cancelled due to unopposed candidates. The following candidates are declared elected: For complete details, view the official Certification of Unopposed

A field of wildflowers in the Texas Hill Country

Notice of Resolution and Order No. 091026-01: Interim Permitting Procedures During Stage 3 Drought and Rulemaking

During the 9/10/2026 boarding meeting, Resolution No. 091026-01 was adopted to establish interim procedures during Stage 3 Drought. Click here to read the full resolution.

Drought Update: August 2026

Photo of Barking Springs taken on August 12, 2026. District’s Current Drought Status: Stage 3 Exceptional Drought August brought another round of triple-digit heat to Central Texas, with both Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) and Camp