Here are the latest level checks for Barton Springs and the Lovelady Well. Both are the District’s drought triggers. Both Barton Springs and Lovelady are on a steady decline. With continued dry conditions we could cross into Alarm Stage Drought as soon as mid-May.
April 7, 2022 – Barton Springs remains above the Stage II Alarm Drought Threshold of 38 cfs (cubic feet per second). It is currently at 50.8 cfs.
April 7, 2022 – The water level in the Lovelady Well remains above Stage II Drought Threshold of 478 ft msl (feet above mean sea level). It is currently a little below 486.0 msl.
Follow our website for the latest levels at Lovelady and Barton Springs. https://bseacd.org/aquifer-science/drought-status/
For conservation tips visit https://bseacd.org/education/water-conservation/conserve/
By the way, The District’s Water Conservation Period begins Friday, May 1st and extends through the end of September–the time when water use is at its peak. Starting on May 1st, Austin Water Utility restricts outdoor watering to no more than twice per week, and the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation
District initiates a voluntary 10% reduction in groundwater pumping by its permittees. Though the approaches are different, the goal is the same–prolong water availability throughout the hottest and driest portion of the year.
In the summer months, outdoor water use is significantly higher and can account for 60% or more of 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. Making sure your irrigation system is functioning at peak efficiency and replacing leaking gaskets and hoses can help conserve water. Installing a rain barrel or rainwater harvesting system can make an even bigger impact in reducing overall water use.