Texas Water Association Fall Conference

The Texas Water Association Fall Conference held at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter proved to be an exceptional gathering for professionals in the water policy sector. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with influential figures, including Texas State Senator Pete Flores and Chairwoman Brooke Paup from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The conference featured a range of insightful presentations that addressed pressing issues in water management, such as rising water costs associated with land development and flood modeling in the San Antonio River Basin. Notable speakers included Sharlene Leurig and Brett Bovee from WestWater Research, who discussed the challenges of rising water costs, and Erin Cavazos from the San Antonio River Authority, who presented on flood modeling strategies. A key focus of the conference was also on groundwater issues, with Leah Martinsson, a water policy consultant, evaluating unreasonable effects in Groundwater Conservation District (GCD) permitting, while Sarah Kirkle from the Texas Water Association provided a recap of special sessions and Proposition 4.The conference also offered a current issues in groundwater panel moderated by John Dupnik from the Texas Water Development Board, emphasizing the importance of understanding groundwater interactions in light of ongoing legal cases. William R. Hutchison, an independent groundwater consultant, contributed valuable insights on modeling tools used in the Texas-New Mexico lawsuit. Other significant discussions included potential impacts of groundwater development on endangered species, presented by experts from the Trinity River Authority, and the critical need for hazard mitigation plans, led by Cole Arreola-Karr from Special Districts Strategies, L.L.C. For professionals seeking continuing legal education, the event provided opportunities to earn up to 5.5 hours of CLE credits, enhancing their understanding and compliance with current legal frameworks in water policy. The Texas Water Association continues to be a vital platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders involved in water management across the United States.