How will a Groundwater Conservation District affect me?

Generally legislation that creates a GCD states that individual domestic wells capable of producing less than 10,000 gallons per day, and wells used solely for domestic or livestock purposes on tracts that are more than 10 acres and that are capable of producing no more than 25,000 gallons of water per day, are considered exempt and cannot be permitted, metered, or regulated. 

Yes, state law requires all wells to be registered with the GCD. This does not mean that all wells require a permit. All domestic wells and livestock wells that produce less than 25,000 gallons per day are exempt from permits. A GCD has the ability to exempt others in their rules. 

Western Williamson County is the part of Williamson County to the west of I-35.

Yes. Groundwater is and will continue to be a major source of water for Texans. However, in many parts of the state, more groundwater is being used than is being replenished through natural means. If this practice continues, Texas water costs will rise, land could subside, water quality could decline and people in some areas could run out of water. 

Currently commercial wells have no limitation in Williamson County.  This has the potential to harm residential and livestock water wells.  Under a GCD commercial wells must be permitted and follow the limitations of the permit.  A GCD may enforce the permit through any of the enforcement remedies up to lawsuits. 

A healthy and sustainable aquifer is essential for this area. Aquifers feed springs and creeks that become our rivers and lakes. Surface water, groundwater, springs and seeps are interconnected within the Hill Country water system. Our rivers, lakes, creeks, and springs provide quality of life for residents, tourism, recreation opportunities, wildlife habitat, and irreplaceable natural beauty. Property values and economic vitality may decline if groundwater becomes unreliable in our community. Protecting groundwater in our aquifer benefits the entire community.