Residents of Wilson County, Texas, Oppose Water Transfer Permit

Residents of Wilson County discussing water transfer concerns during a public meeting

Wilson County, Texas, December 5, 2025

Residents of Wilson County, Texas, are voicing strong opposition against a permit that would allow water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer to be pumped to Guadalupe County. Concerns focus on potential depletion of the aquifer, which is crucial for local growth and property value. The Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District plans to hold a public hearing to address these worries and evaluate the permit request fairly.

Residents of Wilson County, Texas, Oppose Water Transfer Permit

Wilson County, Texas – Residents of Wilson County have expressed strong opposition to a permit request that would allow water from their local aquifer to be pumped and transferred to neighboring Guadalupe County. The permit, submitted by the Springs Hill Utility District, has raised concerns about the potential depletion of the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer, which serves as a primary water source for the area.

Community Concerns

At a meeting of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District on November 21, 2025, a large crowd of Wilson County residents voiced their objections. They emphasized the importance of conserving water resources to support local growth and maintain property values.

District’s Response

Darrell Brownlow, president of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District, acknowledged the community’s concerns. He highlighted the challenges posed by ongoing drought conditions, noting a significant drop in aquifer water levels over the past decade. Brownlow emphasized the district’s commitment to equitable permit processing and assured that all factors would be considered before making a decision.

Legal Framework

Under the Texas Water Code, water transfers out of a groundwater conservation district are permitted. However, the code also mandates that districts apply the same standards to all permit requests, regardless of whether the water is being used within or outside the district.

Next Steps

The Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District plans to hold a public hearing to further discuss the permit request. Residents are encouraged to participate to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Background

Wilson County, located approximately 40 miles southeast of San Antonio, has experienced significant population growth in recent years. This growth has increased the demand for water resources, making conservation efforts crucial to sustain the community’s development and quality of life.

FAQ

What is the Springs Hill Utility District’s permit request?

The Springs Hill Utility District has submitted a permit request to pump water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in Wilson County and transfer it to neighboring Guadalupe County. This proposal has raised concerns among local residents about potential depletion of the aquifer and its impact on the community’s water supply.

What are the residents’ main concerns regarding the water transfer?

Residents are worried that transferring water out of the aquifer could lead to a shortage of water for local businesses, decrease property values, and hinder the area’s growth. They emphasize the need to conserve water resources to support the community’s development.

How is the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District addressing the issue?

The district acknowledges the community’s concerns and is committed to a fair evaluation process. They plan to hold a public hearing to discuss the permit request further and ensure that all factors are considered before making a decision.

What is the legal framework governing water transfers in Texas?

The Texas Water Code permits water transfers out of a groundwater conservation district but requires that districts apply the same standards to all permit requests, regardless of whether the water is being used within or outside the district.

What is the next step in the permit approval process?

The Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District plans to hold a public hearing to further discuss the permit request. Residents are encouraged to participate to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Feature Description
Permit Request The Springs Hill Utility District seeks approval to pump water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in Wilson County and transfer it to Guadalupe County.
Community Concerns Residents fear that the water transfer could lead to shortages affecting local businesses, property values, and community growth.
District’s Response Darrell Brownlow, president of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District, acknowledges the concerns and plans to hold a public hearing for further discussion.
Legal Framework The Texas Water Code allows water transfers out of a groundwater conservation district but requires equal application of standards to all permit requests.
Next Steps A public hearing will be held to discuss the permit request, with residents encouraged to participate in the decision-making process.

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